Yesterday evening a terrible storm come through.

With 80 mile an hour winds!

It was very unexpected. Usually, I keep this link up on my computer, and watch what is going on with the weather.

http://www.crh.noaa.gov/forecast/MapClick.php?CityName=Saint+Clair&state=MO&site=LSX

There was no indication until it was upon us. I had just gotten out of a nice relaxing shower. The first thing that clued me in was the lights started blinking. I looked out the window and it looked like it does when a tornado is coming. (I think they did have one in De Soto, not to far from here.) The trees and shrubbery, which are plentiful here, were whipping back and forth like there weighed nothing. All of a sudden there was a strong gust that seemed like it wanted to pull the bushes from the ground. A lawn chair went sailing past the window! (In my heart I know this is when my tree went.)

The good news first, we are all ok, humans and pets. Sadly, one of my beloved trees didn't fare so well. It was a giant old tree, in front of my house. Most of the branchs came down. Many of them were blocking the highway. The police and fire department were here to cut away some of the branches blocking the highway. Then MODOT, to bulldoze the larger tree limbs back on my property.I hope my tree, the majority of which is still standing, makes a comeback. Time will tell.

Obviously, we do have power. We are so lucky. Many, 480,000 from what the radio says, don't. It is supposed to be 102 degrees today with heat index values as high as 114. I pray for the elderly and pets.

I have one favor to ask. As you all go about the day, say a prayer for the people and pets of the St Louis area who are left without power on this the hottest day of the year. I know there will be some who won't make it. There always is.

=^..^=