Church canceled.

An early morning phonecall alerted us that today's church meetings were canceled. A very rare thing around here. Feet of snow through the winter and we still go. But, with more high windgusts (up to 75 MPH) forecasted for 5:00 tonight, the church leaders' plan is to spend the day getting as many piles of debris cleared as possible. The city leaders just sent out a pre-recorded phonecall urging the same efforts, informing that the National Guard has been called in to help, and informing that the dump will be open today. Pretty big deal. But needed.

An example of many around town: a friend has had her overturned pinetree down, over live wires, since the original storm three days ago. Finally the city (Murray City, really, that is offering backup help to Bountiful) got to it with chainsaws and headlamps late last night. But, that only added more worry. Now as loose limbs, every piece holds the potential of becoming projectile. Waking up to the fact that today offers more hours for volunteers to clear it, is an answer to her prayers!

(Common sight around town. This is Natalie's place, in my old downtown neighborhood.)

With truck and trailer, Matt headed out to join the crews this morning. With a neighbor's pine going down in the last storm, our backyard now includes a clear shot up 1500 South to our church house. And, our front street is the thru street to the area. Both views included many trucks and trailers racing from one spot to another. Ready to help!

Watching such help, I echo the words my friend, Jeanine. What she wrote on Facebook about the past few days, continues on today. "The Bountiful Chainsaw Orchestra has provided the lovely background music for our enjoyment this fine day. Non-stop, commercial-free music... Thank you to all you good people who serve others so well!" Seeing/giving such service teaches as much or more than any good church lesson, anyways.

The kids and I remain inside. I'd be lying if I don't claim that I'm excited to not have to pull on a skirt in these freezing temps. I'd be lying if I don't admit that my primary lesson had yet to be planned. I'd be lying if I don't admit to be doing many loads of laundry, cranking the heater above normal, and catching up on the internet...just in case the power goes out again tonight. But, with that prep made, I feel better about hunkering down and waiting out tonight's storm. A storm that I hope passes without more damage.