Can you imagine experiencing 185 mph winds? and gusts to 220 mph? That would just be overwhelming in so many ways. Someone once told me the danger from the storm surge in hurricanes really exceeds the danger from wind - but either one would scare the heck out of me, for sure.  I can't imagine why anyone would try to "ride out the storm" with that sort of  information in hand. Some people probably are unable to leave, but given the opportunity, I'd be out of there.

I think our weather is going to deteriorate fairly rapidly for the next couple of days, and then we're going to be into real fall weather. I brought in my house plants this evening. I didn't want to take a chance on them getting damaged - I think the weather has already been a little too cool for them, but they still seem ok. In the forecast tonight there was a mention of frost in some spots, and I didn't even bother to find out which night they were talking about.  It could happen any time now.

I spotted another tree turning up in the woods in back of our house. It stands out against the dark evergreens. It's too far away to tell what it is, but I suspect it's a young maple. No other tree has that brilliant red color. I've been busy on my computer all day, so didn't take time to investigate further. Our editor (for the West Danville history book) is going to be concentrating on our stuff for the next few weeks, so it's important to get everything we can to her. We often meet on Mondays, but right now it's more important to write! The end is in sight! If anyone has something they think should be included in this history, this is the very last opportunity to get it to us. Send me a note, janebrowncabot@gmail.com  We'll be more than happy to include your pictures, stories, or comments, if we can. We do have space considerations because we have lots of photos to insert and right now we have no idea how much space we'll have., but we'll do our best to include anything that's appropriate.

We heard some fireworks going off this evening - someone celebrating Labor Day, I expect. Or the end of summer! Either way, we hope everyone has a safe and fun extended weekend - stay safe and be happy.