Hollyhand House

Friday, April 29, 2011

My heart is heavy



My heart has just been aching because of what not only happened to the city I live in but the town I grew up in and all the surrounding areas! I am SO beyond blessed to be here, to have all my friends and family accounted for, to have a home to go to! With the tornado hitting less than a mile from my house, it really is too close for comfort.
Riley and I had made the decision to go to his Dad's house in Northport and get in the basement so Anna Riley would still be able to play.We were watching the huge tornado as it was coming toward our city and that has to be one of the scariest thing.  To see something like so close to you!  I had been so worried because getting in touch with my parents was not easy.  I was sad to find out that my Aunt and Uncle had lost everything but also thankful that everyone in my family was safe!  Some were not as fortunate!

I have yet to go toward the scene.  I don't think I can handle it and I am trying to stay away since I can't physically do labor work to help.  Riley has been helping a few in Alberta and in Forest Lake and he said the pictures and video on tv just do not even come close to the devestation there is!

Everytime I hear a new death toll number, it has went up.  Everytime I am able to get in touch with my parents, she tells me of more that were found dead in her area.  My heart truely aches for those that have lost loved ones!  It is very hard to see all the houses, business lost...but those can be rebuilt over time...losing a loved one can't!

It is amazing to me that everyone has really come together to clean up and eventually rebuild our city.  Yesterday, they had to turn away volunteers for the time being because they had too many!  There has been enormous amounts of supplies have been and are still being donated.  

Please consider donating to http://www.redcross.org/ ! 
There are also drop off areas where you can take things.  I am still trying to figure out what is needed.  Some shelters are at max for certain things while others still need and are accepting certain items.
But for the most part, Tuscaloosa and the rest of Alabama just needs lots of PRAYERS!!!