Whew! That was my thought after the storm didn’t materialize as badly as projected.
I followed the weather reports and radar as many others did. One track had the storm heading up the Pioneer Valley with Westfield as the prime spot.
Based on that projection, I took all the hanging plants and anything that could blown about into the garage. I bought a bag of ice for the freezer. I put the Coleman lantern and flashlights on the kitchen counter. I charged my iPad and filled the car with gas as many reports suggested.
I am relieved that we were spared the worst and am sorry others suffered damage and lost power.
I did pick some tomatoes (there were a few left) and flowers so they wouldn’t be lost.
***
The tomatoes provide a segue to announce the winners of the summer postcard contest since they receive some tomatoes but will get more of my other vegetables.
Mary Carey of Amherst sent the card from the greatest distance, Croatia. Barbara Schuman of Amherst came in second with a card from England.
Thanks to all who sent cards.
The winter contest now begins with the winners receiving homemade cookies: chocolate chip, peanut butter, oatmeal raisin, chocolate with peanut butter chips, molasses and molasses with raisins.
Cards either mailed or hand delivered as well as email notes or photos from trips ***
September begins next week so perhaps I shouldn’t have been surprised to see Halloween candy on display in the supermarket.
***
The electronic sign boards announce that traffic will be heavy Friday since students are returning to campus. Downtown is usually fine. What will attract attention downtown is the amusement rides being set up for the Rotary Club’s Community Fair that will be held this weekend. Some rides were parked along Boltwood Walk on Monday. This may be the year that it doesn’t rain during the fair. I am looking at the forecast and it looks dry.
***
Send items for the Lehrer Report to phyllehrer@gmail.com.
