Hurricane Irene

August 28, 2011

Our neighborhood of 185 homes survived the hurricane fairly well compared to other areas.  On a walk around the block, I heard that one roof shingle was found on the ground but saw none.  The only damage was to trees that had been blown over or snapped off (1).  Water soaked the grass.

It's possible to save many of these trees.  After hurricane Gloria, a neighbor helped us right a flattened tree by using a block and tackle to pull it upright.  We then sunk stakes into the ground surrounding the tree and tied it securely.  It thrived!

I would suggest:
     1. Keep the roots moist -- don't let them dry out.  Cover the roots with towels and wet them down once a day.
     2. Call a respectable landscaping company and ask for their help.


Here's what it looked like between 12:15 and 1:00 PM today:

Spruce Pine, North Carolina

7/1-8/11

The week-long visit with family and friends gave us an opportunity to experience some of the great North Carolina attractions.

The fourth of July was spent on Lake James with friends and family.

Zip lining is a thrilling new sport to us.  We drove to Plumtree, North Carolina, and joined other folks at the Plumtree Zip Line Canopy Tour company at the Toe River Lodge.

After being hooked to a cable between trees, we flew from the higher to the lower tree.  The rush of air while dangling from the pulley gave a sense of freedom and excitement.

 At one point we walked across this rickety rope bridge.  Notice the helmets and the yellow safety straps that are hooked onto cables at all times in case of a fall.  The straps will support a person who may slip off an edge.

Shannon and Erin, our guides, made sure that everything that we did was safe and enjoyable.

Back at the home of Cassie and Jeff, Joan supplied huge sparklers for everyone.

Bob and Zach relaxed before packing for the trip home.