This is Only Day 3

I think that’s the part that amazes me. Well, OK, I think the outpouring love on my family is the bigger amazement. Still, I have been so busy over the past 3 days, I’ve had little time to do much more than “keep going”. I want to give you all an update, because you’ve shown an interest in our well-being that I’m ashamed to admit I never knew existed. Humility, overwhelmedness, tears, repeat often. 🙂

* I got a hair cut. While not as important as getting clean underwear, it was getting up there in the “people will start pointing” scale. I normally cut my own hair, so had to take an unfamiliar trip to the local barber. He refused to take money for the trim. Funny thing is, his kindness will earn him a lifetime client.

* We have phone service and Internet service. There’s a bit of a story here, but I should precede by explaining why it was so important. In the rental home that was so graciously opened up for us, there is no phone. There is also no Internet access. All that would be fine, but it’s nestled down near the river and cellphone coverage is such that a person must stand on one foot while dipping their finger in icewater and licking a metal spoon in order to make a phone call. With our recent circumstances, the inability to make emergency phone calls is more than a bit unsettling. I scheduled for installation, but the quickest turnaround time was Wednesday afternoon for Internet, and Thursday for phone. Concerned about the anxiety level isolation was bringing, I sent a tweet to Eric over at Charter, and in less than 15 minutes a technician was on site to install both. I will never doubt Eric’s super powers again. Or his kindness.

* So yeah, I have reliable Internet service now. You’ll be hearing from me a lot more often. Mwa ha ha. 🙂

* I did not get to the house today to shoot video. It’s amazing how much work is involved with getting this paperwork signed, that agreement agreed upon, this utility activated, that contractor scheduled, etc, etc. I hope to get some better photos and some video soon. Most of my family hasn’t seen the house either, and while they don’t want to go into the building, seeing the aftermath is something of interest. Perhaps to you too.

* I have a PO Box now. Sadly, I don’t remember what the number is. I know, pathetic. I have to figure out the address soon, because my key will only open one of those magical boxes, and trying each one is probably a felony. I’ll let everyone know when I figure it out. I’ll even write it down!

* We have continued to use the money donated to buy the essentials we need to live normally. With the processes in place for purchase, claim, submit, approve, reimburse — getting any money from our Insurance company is much more of a long term endeavor than something we can rely on. Most recently, Donna bought a rug to cover the cold floor in our new living room. It’s quite fuzzy. You’d like it.

* I know I’m still behind on replies. The reasons are many-fold. Like the title of this post says, it’s only day 3. It feels like eons ago our house was on fire — but I guess it’s just been so hectic it feels long ago. Also, I am still using the little netbook to type. My hands get angry with me after a short while. They’re quite miffed right now in fact, and I’ll be closing this blog entry soon.

* You may have read my little “Snowflake” story. While certainly a cheesy representation of the love you’ve all poured out on my family, I just wanted to come up with something other than “Thank You”. I worry if I keep saying “Thank You” it will sound less sincere. It’s not. You’ve all, ALL been so amazing to my family. I can easily name more blessings we’ve experienced from this tragedy than devastation. And yes, I do realize how significant that sounds. It’s true. For that, and everything else, thank you. 🙂