the flood of '08

Everyone reading this blog is well aware of the flood situation around here the past few days. While we were high and dry throughout the whole event, many around us were not.

For many people, the rising waters either meant a big headache because of closed roads or an opportunity to "sight-see" and take pictures. For others it meant emptying out river clubhouses, moving all valuable possessions from basements, or sandbagging their homes or businesses, all the while wondering, "Will it really get that high?" For us it became an opportunity to help others by sandbagging in "old town" and in Ralph's parents' neighborhood where the water eventually crept into some homes.

Ultimately, the water did not get quite as high here as they thought it might. Many were affected, but many ended up dry. It was still amazing. It was amazing to look up and down Central Avenue and see people from all over town working to help friends, family and strangers. It was amazing to stand in the cul-de-sac in Ralph's parents' neighborhood and see so many people wanting to help and to realize there were more "workers" than "jobs." It was amazing to drive around town and see the water cover so much land. It made us feel proud to call this place home. This place where friends, family and strangers pull together to help each other. That's how it's supposed to be...

Here are some pictures taken on Friday morning...the water crested sometime early Saturday morning.