Musings on...Hurricane Irene in Vermont

Yes we are!

Dear Blog,

Forgive me for I have....neglected to write, muse, share...whatever.  Like I have said in the past, I'm not very skilled at this blog thing. I realize that you have to carve out the time and sit down and write!  So many months have past, and some many things have happened!  I will never remember half of it.

What compels me to sit down a write today is Irene.  Irene came and the East Coast braced for it.  The Coast was prepared, the news crew headed there, all eyes on the coast and Hurricane Irene.  What no one expected was the damage the rain caused in the other states.  Flooding was insane, and many towns all over NY, VT, NH, NJ CT were affected.  Vermont was where I lived before moving to the Cascades, and Vermont is where family and friends are, and Vermont got CRUSHED.  I have been watching videos, photos, news stories and I ham so deeply saddened and disturbed by everything.  I wish I was there to lend a hand in some shape or form.

I started out as an art teacher in Vermont and traveled to many little towns in the district.I taught at Winhall, Jamaica, Wardsboro, Brookline,  and Dover.  All have been struck by the rising waters.  Families that I knew have lost their homes.  It is so sad.  Jamaica is the first placed I lived and it breaks my heart to see the destruction.   I also lived in Chittenden, and that area has also been hit so hard.  Families that have been stranded because of roads that have washed away, are hiking to school.  I am so proud of them.

The history that has been washed away.  Covered bridges, 200 year old homes!  So very sad. This is quote from Calvin Coolidge, after the floods of 1927.  This makes me feel somewhat better.  It make me feel strong, and I need to be reminded of the strength of Vermont. 

Vermont is a state I love... I love Vermont because of her hills and valleys, her scenery and invigorating climate, but most of all, I love her because of her indomitable people. They are a race of pioneers who almost impoverished themselves for love of others. If ever the spirit of liberty should vanish from the rest of the Union, it could be restored by the generous share held by the people in this brave little State of Vermont." -- Calvin Coolidge, after the floods of 1927.

I know that if I was there I would be moving on.  rebuilding, going on with my life.  I think that because I am far away I am becoming a bit too obsessive with the news and tragedy.  People are strong, the communities are supportive, Vermont will rebuild, and this workhorse of a state shall rebound!

  Here are some of the incredible videos and photos.