Who invited Ike?

So, looks like we'll have this unwelcome visitor: Ike. Muffin and I are staying put. In fact, my mom's even coming over to be with us. I was frightened earlier today, but have come to realize that a) I'm complying with the officials' emergency directives, and b) I'm doing the best I can with what I have. So, my wonderful nephew came over to help me move the patio furniture into the garage, I brought my trash back into the house, made an last-minute run to HEB, and got all the ice out of the freezer so that I can refill it tomorrow. I'm doing last-minute loads of laundry, and will clean the bathtubs and fill them with water tomorrow afternoon. After that, I'm not sure what else I can do, so I'm calm and confident at this point.

By the way, HEB rocks! I went out at 5 this afternoon, drove past the boarded-up and close Wal-Mart on my way to the well-stocked HEB. They even had batteries! People were calm, even joking and friendly. One nice young couple even offered to carry my groceries out to the car for me. (Jeez, I don't look that old, do I??) Kudos to the store, for being well-stocked and well-managed!

I'll try to keep posting as long as I can, until we lose power. Hold good thoughts!