Terrible Tuesday...Revisited

If you know me at all, you *know* I'm a weather hound. I love everything about the weather. Seriously, had I been better at math you would see me in place of Pete Delkus as the meteorologist on Channel 8. Heck...I'll go one further...in place of Jim Cantore on The Weather Channel.

As much as I do love the weather and how often it changes here in North Texas, I get its destructive nature. Take yesterday's outbreak of tornadoes in Oklahoma as an example. As fascinating as I find them (and I do) and as beautiful as they are (when they are on open land), their propensity to do damage like only the finger of God can do is not lost on me.

My heart goes out to all those affected by yesterday's weather. I'm sure they woke up yesterday like any other morning thinking it was going to be just another Tuesday. Of course, in Tornado Alley in springtime, you never know what the day may bring. But you always have faith you and your family will lay head to pillow that night. Statistically speaking, for you to actually have one of these forces strike in your life, you would most likely have to wait 1,400 years. And that is being in the heart of Tornado Alley. Even then, the likelihood of you being in its direct path is more rare.

But it happens. It happened to me and my family when I lived in Wichita Falls (Pictured at top. It was April 10th , now known as "Terrible Tuesday".) and again a couple years ago in the town I live in now (remarkably...again on April 10th. Also my son's birthday!).

You never know when your home is going to be turned upside down and tossed around with no concern for the life you have built, the memories you want to protect, and most importantly - the people inside you can't replace. The best we can do is prepare. Be informed and do what you have to do to make sure you and your loved ones are safe.

Many people found out yesterday the scenario "if tomorrow never comes" and I ache for them. I wouldn't wish it on anyone. No one should have their lives tossed around with such disregard.

As my daughter was falling asleep last night, she asked me where we go if the sirens went off. Believe me...she KNOWS this. We've done it and gone over it many, many times. But it was her way of trying to fall asleep in peace while watching the lightening out the window in the distance. So, I told her again. Then she asked, "You'll make sure I'm okay. Right mommy?". Without any hesitation, I answered, "No doubt about it. That's why I'm here."

Call someone you love today and make sure they know they can count on you. Everyone needs a little reminder every once and awhile.