Here We Go Again...

Yep, another hurricane. It's still early but it looks like Hurricane Dean may be headed for Texas. The good news (for those of us in Southeast Texas) is that it isn't expected to come ashore here. Current projections have it slamming into the Yucatan before making landfall again in Taumalipas or South Texas. But from unhappy experience we know that storms can change paths, and we have to be prepared for the worst. People around here are already nervous and making plans. It's time to stock up on bottled water and fill gas tanks.

Hurricane Rita gave us a good primer on how to prepare for evacuation. First of all empty the contents of the refrigerator into ice chests - believe me, you don't want to come home to a kitchen oozing with melted and putrifying food. Then cut any tree limbs and foliage that could cause damage to walls and roof. Before leaving go around the yard and remove potential projectiles (hanging baskets, birdfeeders, and anything else that isn't firmly nailed down). Make sure drains are open and clear of debris. Fill bath tubs to provide water for flushing toilets when you get back. And remember to fill gas containers. You might be stuck in traffic for a very long time, and even if you do find an open gas station you won't want to wait in line.

We hope we won't have to do any of this. But if we don't you can be sure some other poor bastards somewhere else will.

Today's backyard bird sightings included a Belted Kingfisher at the pond and a fly-by Cattle Egret. Caught a baby Mediterranean Gecko on our bathroom floor this evening. They aren't bad house guests, but I still prefer they stay outside.

Took the kids on their first museum outing today. They're almost three months old, so we figured it's about time they got some culture. It was also our first visit to the Stark Museum in Orange. Not sure about Bryce and Lucy, but Michelle and I were quite impressed. The museum has a surprisingly large collection of western and wildlife art, including a stunning Albert Bierstadt painting of Yosemite Valley and a complete double elephant folio that we were told was once in the possession of John James Audubon himself. We arrived just before closing, and I wish we'd had more time to look around. If you are ever in Southeast Texas I definitely recommend that you check it out.

A close friend was in a car accident yesterday. The vehicle may be totalled, but at least he walked away unscathed. It's worth remembering that every time we get behind the wheel of a car we take our lives in our hands. There's nothing safe about this life...

...and I won't let go of the first clear moment I saw you...

Best song ever written. 'Cuz I say so.