Woo hoo! A fig form first: a political thread. Frank, you are dead on right about New York vs New Orleans. We are simple savages when times get tough. New Yorkers are more sophisticated, and the crimes to expect are going to be more cleverly planned and executed, and the victims will be not just robbed, but ruined. Bummer. But then, you are obviously an optimist, Frank. You still believe that elections matter. No matter who wins the election, the people will get screwed. Every election. Everywhere. Forever. Good guys don't run for office beyond dog catcher. It's the system. The regular people cannot win in this system. Magic formula for happiness regarding politicians: Expect much less. Works every time. And yet... the sun is shining, my family is warm and happy, and there's over 50 ripening figs in my little orchard. I'll just take it day by day.

Thanks to you to0 Karen and everyone for their concern! Copy of my post on the other side of the forum.....again, this really is a great group of friends and people that I'm glad to know and actually have had the pleasure of spending some good times in person. Thank y'all so very much for checking in on me and my family/group. I've been out of town working and just got home a hour or so ago. Debi, my sis did text me that Ann had called this morning checking in....I remember you calling years ago for some swap info for the riverrat. : ) It's good to know you have friends from around the world thinking about you and your family and friends. We do have some in our circle of friends and employees that have been affected by this. Thankfully everyone is alive and well minus the damage and or loss of homes. My thoughts and prayers are there for everyone in the damaged areas over the last several days. Sally, I hope you hear from your missing family member soon and I'm happy to hear the rest of the family is okay for the most part. Peppi, thanks for the post and concern my friend, and Ann for the phone calls. This forum and it's members are the best. I will reply to all of the emails in the next day or two and REALLY appreciate all of them and your concern. I really miss being here as of late but we have had some major family issues and concerns that have taken up much of my/our time and life in general. Thanks again all y'all!!! Love and peace to everyone! David

So glad your son and family are fine, Outside. The tornado reminded me that it's their tornado season now, and mine is next. Need to inspect the cellar! I'm going to keep bumping this topic. Allison has other property in the area and I think one or two of her kids & grandkids nearby. So nobody needs to worry, I'll worry for everyone. I was born to do that. lol

Such a thorough update KSWL & I am relieved for you & your DH that he has a good plan in place! This is not an easy time for either of you, so I hope having made what sounds like a very solid course of action gives you both a little peace. I will be thinking of him & you too!! Prayers....