Drama Girls

This was the big Girls Weekend. And, it was much more drama that planned.

First, I was intent on getting my hostess a bucket of field fresh strawberries. Only, it was a dark and stormy day, and I ended up having to drive to the next county to get good ones. But, they were perfect! So, all in all, worth the drive.

Then, as I was driving up to my friend's house, I kept hearing emergency alerts on the radio. . . I paid particular attention to the instructions for those in cars. But, I made it safe and sound and my friend gives the best directions.

We fast footed it to the roller derby venue in order to stay out of the way of any possible weather. The event organizers gave us very specific instructions as to what sound would indicate the necessity to take emergency cover (the venue is all glass).

At the first whir of the air raid siren, I stood up. I'm a big ol' rule follower. I was the first person in my area to stand . . . I had to explain "air raid? go to basement?"

I can reassure you that the basement of this huge, old venue was the perfect place to take cover. The venue is located within the state fairground complex and was built to last generations. And, the crowd who attends roller derby are exactly the folks you want around you in such an emergency.

They hire folks from the local sheriff's dept. to serve as security and they hire a couple emt crews in case of roller derby related accident. So, all these folks were huddled with us in the basement. Also, they were the folks with immediate contact with the command center for the state emergency services. And, the crowd are the sort to not lose their sense of humor and band together to get everyone through safely.

A tornado reportedly touched down on the fairgrounds complex, but all we heard was a lot of wind . . . no crashing or banging.

Our hostess was concerned for her home and doggie, so we left early to check. A tree uprooted in her neighbor's yard and hit a neighbor's home, but she was spared. The destruction was awe inspiring. There were many homes destroyed and several lives lost. We've heard that several children were killed just 1/4 mile from my friend's home.

This morning, when I left to drive home, trees were still blocking roads and much of the city was still without power.

Let's hope next week-end's trip is less eventful, eh?