Come On, Irene!

So, I didn't expect that I'd experience an earthquake and a hurricane...IN THE SAME WEEK! I expected muggings or something. But this is blowing my mind.

Anyway, I want to update you on my plans. I am not in an evacuation zone (not close enough to water for that). I'm also at the back of the building, surrounded by other, taller buildings. I have a hunch that I'm not going to have a lot of damage in the apartment, even if the storm is severe. I've also heard several people say that the storms with the biggest media hype (especially in NYC), tend to be duds.

However, I've learned that the subways are closing tomorrow at noon (the first time that has happened since 9/11). So, it looks like I'll be in my apartment this weekend, and possibly into next week. My biggest concern is losing power or water. However, someone reminded me that NYC has underground power lines. It's not like a tree falls across a wire here like in MN (plus, where are the trees here?).

I've filled every container I own with water and put it in the fridge. I've started making ice as well, so that if I lose power, I can keep the fridge cooler a little longer. I had a lot of produce from my last grocery order, so I'll eat that up first. Today, I went out and bought 6 cans of beans and several things of granola (both cereal and bars). I already have several Costco canisters of mixed nuts as well. I think I'm OK on the food front. I also got cash, in case I need to buy something and the credit cards aren't working.

So don't worry about me. I'll be safe. I might be bored and stinky, but I'll be safe. Oh, I also have two books and two magazines.

Here's my communications plan. If I lose electricity I'm going to send Richard a text message to tell him so, and then I'm shutting off my phone. I'll check it every few hours and send Richard a short update. He will keep you all up to date from my messages. I'm sure there will be a lot of calls on the cell lines, and I don't want to tie those up more than I need to (and drain my phone battery when I don't know when I can charge it again). I have the little netbook and my work laptop, and I'm prepared to use the charge from the computers to charge my phone.

In the VERY rare event that I need to evacuate, I'm putting together a bag with my passport, money, toiletries, and some clothes. I really don't anticipate needing to do this (more likely I'll be sitting in my apartment).

My friend, Katie (who helped me get the apartment) is throwing a hurricane party, so I might go and be with her so I don't have to be alone. I'm hoping that if things are bad, that there is a general cooperative spirit, but if not, then I'm hiding in my place.

Again, I WILL BE JUST FINE. No one needs to worry.