This is like communal survivor’s guilt.  Just down the road parts of our city are devastated by the tornado.  The randomness really bothers me.  Even the kids can see how human behavior (or lack thereof) creates climate change that causes these disasters to be more frequent and deadly, and it makes them angry and scared.  Of course I’m thankful we were spared, but this hit so close to home.  Our people and city were directly in the path of destruction.

It’s amazing how diverse community groups have all pulled together to organize a relief effort on the ground, while state and fed do whatever.  This is what it takes to survive a terrible disaster now, regular folks all gladly pitching in, volunteering, providing emergency supplies and shelter, clearing debris, and starting to rebuild homes.  Avdi saw the wreckage firsthand, while delivering food, first aid, supplies, and personal items we all donated.  He wished he could stick around to volunteer, but we do what we can and will continue to.

Meanwhile, back at the fort, I spent the night as usual so Avdi could get out.  Sunday was a beautiful sunny day, as if nothing had happened, but fortunate for all the volunteers working to provide services before it rains again.  I worked in the garden and talked to the neighbors.  Kim (and W.) came over to recolor Y’s hair on the patio, while the kids played.  We got to have a good conversation as she worked.  It was almost like an informal B&B.  Avdi hung out with us for a while.

Later on we (kids and A and I) went to Global Foods, something we all look forward to.  Avdi has it down to an efficient system wherein each kid gets to spend a specific amount and time shopping, then all meet up, which works well.  I always take up the rear, trying to rush around getting my few basic healthy staples while I can.  This way I can accept fewer food pantry items that I don’t need and others do.

The first snap peas have appeared!  All my squashes, melons, and okra are coming up.  New flowers keep blooming.  Sometimes I just sit in wonder and soak up the beauty of all the trees and life we’re privileged to enjoy for the moment.

The evil jigsaw puzzle (pictured) was finally finished by E.  Now a new one has begun.  Insidious things!