I will never forget watching the satellite images of Katrina as it approached the coast. My final thought was, run! But it was too late for the many unable or unwilling at that point. Also stuck in my head is the image of the Fox news team reporting from the French Quarter the next morning that New Orleans had, "dodged the bullet" as the water poured through the levees. No one seemed to know, yet.

If I had lots of food and water, a generator, a solid house and was on HIGHER GROUND, I'd probably ride it out. Otherwise I'd be taking a holiday inland. God Bless.

Yes, friends, here in Breaux Bridge we are only about 10 miles from the Gulf (thanks to coastal erosion) and we are in the same panic as the folks in nearby New Orleans. All your prayers and good mental vibrations are much appreciated!

Goodness. In this current "Crisis" mode, I neglected to express my gratitude. Profound thanks, everyone.

Jennifer

May God bless you and keep you safe.

Right now my biggest problem is that the local CBS affiliate has pre-empted the U.S. Open in order to provide non-stop inane bulletins about the storm. They will do the same thing tomorrow, I'm sure (and I very may still be here).

And yes, thanks to everyone for your concern.

[This message has been edited by Diane Dees (edited August 30, 2008).]

Starting to look really bad, Jennifer. Candles being snuffed out all over. Most models now steer it straight at, or just west of New Orleans, at Category Three. Prayers continue.

I just saw a report suggesting a possible category 4. Hope you folks are getting the hell out of there. Love from 8500 feet.

Dave

Dave, while we are hunkering down, do you have one to spur us on?


Roy

It will almost certainly reach Cat 4 over open water, but its approach will be oblique to the coast rather than perpendicular, as it was with Audrey, which nearly killed Jennifer's mother and deprived us of guess who. Gail and Diane, praying for you too.

I am two hours inland, but quite possibly in the direct path, as it is now projected--MSNBC shows it passing through here with category 1 force winds, once it has spent the worst of its wrath. My little town has two emergency Red Cross shelters taking in folks from farther south, and all of the hotels and motels and B&Bs are full. Blessings to all those who will be in its path, particularly those close to the coast.