We were without power for the last day and a half while we experienced a ferocious storm that weather forecasters said occurs along the Oregon Coast only once in every five to ten years. The rain was moderate, but sustained winds were 44-55 mph with gusts between 75 and 100 mph. They cancelled school in many towns, including Gold Beach, the Coast Guard closed all harbors, and NOAA issued a warning that waves could reach 40-feet along the seashore.

I write this in the comfort of my study as the wind howls outside. Our home is heated by two woodstoves, plus a propane stove in my study. With gravity-fed spring water, we’re in fine shape. Lenie cooked breakfast atop one of our woodstoves. I love the big storms. Since my home is secure against most weather-caused emergencies like this, I just enjoy Nature’s ferocity.

My son, Robby, turned 15 today. The storm gave him his first present — a day off from school.