Sunday, August 26, 2012

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

15 comments:

  1. Stay safe!!!! Everyone on the coast is in my prayers.

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  2. I've been thinking about y'all every time I talk to a family member in NOLA to get updates. Let me know if y'all need anything. xoxo

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  3. Oh my, you have me in tears. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. What a terrifying experience. I am sure it brings back many horrible memories from Katrina. I really can not fathom losing everything.

    Stay safe and be well. You are Jane's rock now, and I know you, Mark, and Jane will get through this!

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  4. in tears on the Northshore after this post. Prayers your way.

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  5. Be safe!! Sending prayers to your family

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  6. Praying for all of you! Stay safe!

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  7. Jen, y'all are always welcome here! I think we're going to get our fair share of Isaac, but unlike New Orleans, we don't have the same degree of flooding. Y'all be safe!

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  8. Jen, y'all are always welcome here. I think that we will get our fair share of Isaac, but our flooding issues aren't as severe as in New Orleans. Y'all be safe!

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  9. Tears in my eyes for you. Stay safe!! Love you!!

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  10. Beautiful post that hits hard. The picture of Jane's Most Important Things got me - is that the bunny from the bare booty photo? That was my favorite from the shoot. Be careful evacuating! I know it's going to be hard without Mark, but know that you've got lots of prayers behind you!

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  11. Beautiful post that hits hard. The box of Jane's Most Important Things got me. Is that the bunny from the photo shoot with Jane's bare booty? That is my favorite picture. Be careful evacuating! I know it will be rough without Mark, but know that you've got lots of prayers behind you!

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  12. Thinking & praying for y'all!! Stay safe!!

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  13. Cannot stop thinking about you all. Hope you all stay very safe and know that God is with you if you go or if you stay and will be with you with whatever challenges you face. We love you guys and will be saying loads of prayers. xoxo

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  14. Your letter here has tears in my eyes. I can't imagine what sort of memories this must be bringing back for y'all.
    Know you have a lot of people praying for your safety.

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  15. Thinking about you and your family today - hope Isaac is easy on you guys, and all friends along the gulf

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