Dear Baby Jane: The Un-Calm Before Storm Isaac

Dear Baby Jane,

Today, when Mommy and Daddy woke up, we learned that Tropical Storm Isaac is on a path that could send it toward us.  Almost one year ago, Mommy wrote you this post to tell you our Hurricane Katrina story.  Isaac makes mommy scared for so many reasons, but mostly because it brings back all of the terrible memories that Hurricane Katrina left me with.

Today, each time I told someone goodbye, I wondered when and if I would see them again.  As I passed someone waiting for the bus, my heart raced wondering how he or she would get out and where they would go and whether or not they too were scared.

As I considered what to pack, I felt tears well in my eyes because exactly seven years ago, the only thing I left with were my purses and my wedding albums.  We came home to nothing.  We lost everything.

So when I opened your closet and went to select the few things you would actually need for a couple of days away from home, I found myself folding everything you ever wore.  It all seems so important.  There was the outfit you came home in.  The pink and white striped gown that Daddy bought you the day you were born so that he could gift you your very first pink outfit.  Your first Christmas dress that you wore to your First Christmas mass at Holy Name.  Your first Mardi Gras costume.  Your first bathing suit.  The list goes on and on and on.

Jane's Most Important Things

I know from our Katrina experience that the things we own do not define our memories, but sweet Baby Jane, I am not ready to let go of your things just yet.  I love how they feel in my hands and how they smell of you.

I wish that I could describe that our life over the next few days will be calm.  But, tomorrow, your Daddy will likely get activated to serve our State and keep the people who have to stay behind safe and well.  You, Beignet, and I will go on to evacuate without him.  I know I will be ok because I have to for you.  But, Baby Jane, your Daddy is my rock.  He keeps me calm and helps me to see the light even in the darkest of days.

What I know without a doubt is that seven years ago, I didn't have you.  And, Jane, you are my light.

Together we will weather this storm.

With Love and Faith,

Mommy