Still Awesome!

Still Awesome!
Originally uploaded by Gna42.

Well, well... Where to start? Since a few of us still remember hurricane Katrina, I'll start with a family update.

My older sister is working in New Orleans again at one of the two open hospitals. She has told me that 400 of the 800 former employees will NOT be returning. She is having to stay at a hotel as there is still NO power uptown where she used to live. While talking with her on the phone she happened to look out the window and saw only TWO cars riding down Canal St., ON A FRIDAY NIGHT!

Still, she is trying to make the best of it but is not sure if she will ultimately stay in New Orleans. I think she wants things to get back "to Normal," and of course they never will... New Orleans will never be the same city...ever.

Also, when we first talked after her return to the Big Easy she said she was shocked at the awful condition of the city. She was really shook up. I've seen some pics recently and it looks like a dump to me too.

About the parents and Da' Parish! My wife and I filed the papers for my parents allowing the wrecking ball to swing. Their house is on the first list of houses to be demolished as it was in the street. Mom and Pop went back one final time and ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches out in front of the house. They would have liked to have sat on the front steps, but, of course, they aren't there any more. An odd way to spend Thanksgiving Day, don't you think?

On a happier note FEMA has finally come through with some money, 10,000 to be exact. Not a lot considering the destruction but a Godsend nonetheless. We are hoping to get them more and things are in the works.

Also, our church FINALLY came through with some help for my parents. Too little too late (way too late) but appreciated. It's not the money as much as I want my folks to know that some people they have never met care about them. Professing Christian love is fine but showing it is what makes the difference.

Listen! I warn all parents who have returned with their kids who went through Katrina to WACH THEM CLOSELY. If they show any signs of anxiety disorders please seek help for them ASAP. They have a very valid reason for developing nervous disorders. Please watch them and know that many are praying for them.

Serious stuff aside, what's with the kong Pic? My wife just bought me the original 1933 version of King Kong, fully restored, as an early Christmas present ( After all, what says "I'm celebrating Christ's Birth" better than an animated ape?) and it was a real pick-me-up... still awesome. Check it out before the Peter Jackson version opens in December.

For those of you who have returned I wish you a blessed Christmas season. And if any of you go to the Celebration in the Oaks, please send me a pic of Mr. Bingle. - Earl