Remarkably my neighborhood, which was inland, was unaffected. We were, in fact, kind of an oasis. Other than some fallen trees (and my loss of internet for a few hours) there was little damage — and no loss of power. If I live to be 120 I will never again take things like gas, water, or heat for granted. So many people lost their homes, if not their lives.
During the storm, though, it was terrifying to hear the windows rattle. I was unable to go to work in Manhattan for a week, since the area of my workplace was without power (though no damage to buildings). Here again, I was lucky that my company paid for my “accidental vacation”; so many people lost their livelihoods. (During my exile in Brooklyn I even managed to catch up on some freelance.)
I had a girl staying with me for a few days, since her parents’ home was without power. I also gave money to the various Jewish communities that suffered extensive loss or damage. I really wish I could do more. If I didn’t already have people living with me I would have taken in a family.
This Thanksgiving I am counting all my blessings.
WOW, Mooch...so glad to hear that you were relatively unaffected. Very nice that you were able to take someone in and provide a safe haven.