Storm Surge
Tide Surge Raising Fear
Penetrating Eye Of Storm
Hurricane, Have Heart
~
The above self-portrait was shot at
9 o’clock pm Monday night.
This was high-tide for our area, and the
the height of intensity for Hurricane Sandy.
As many of you know, following mandatory evacuation,
I fled with my puppy to a hotel location on Sunday, and
took shelter there with many other evacuees where we lost
power, heat and hot water.
Both humans and pets shared a common bond,
in the midst of the pending natural disaster.
Together at our “safe haven” hotel, people quickly
became caring friends. There were 11-year old twin girls entertaining
Rumi for me, as people offered to share flashlight batteries, and
whatever food they brought along.
Sadly, many lost their homes, and there were
numerous heartbreaking stories of
personal struggle and devastation.
What was obvious and uplifting though,
was the instant shared camaraderie and faith among
these strangers, in the face of fear.
I am very thankful that my
home has remained mostly
in tact, less some property damage,
I will finally be returning tomorrow,
as we just received word that our power,
heat and hot water have
been restored as of this evening.
I offer continued prayers for all of those who
have suffered loss and struggle in
the wake of this powerful storm,
and want to express my most heartfelt thanks to all
of my wonderful friends here, who have kept us in
thought and prayer for safety.
Much Love,
Robyn Lee
THROUGH THE HEALING LENS 
So glad you’re okay sweetheart. You have been through so much stress. May you and those around you find comfort, and rebuilding for those who lost their homes be swift. Xoxoxo
November 1, 2012 at 10:36 PM
Thank you so much Lady Day ~ yes I’m fine… just disoriented through all the uncertainty. We are lucky ~ some have much more aftermath to contend to than lost trees and property damage! Blessings and Love ~ RL
November 2, 2012 at 11:06 AM
God, Fate, Karma, Whatever likes to test us just to see how we help or hinder others, maybe… I don’t know, I’m no great philosopher and definitely have no market cornered on God’s thoughts, but Her heart has to be in the right place. You just have to believe that. That’s what Faith is all about, maybe. Glad you are okay and going home. 🙂
November 1, 2012 at 10:42 PM
Thank you Robert ~ your comment made me smile… yes I do believe that. Sometimes we can’t understand the mystery of natural disasters like this… but faith is very much the engine for the soul. Sending good thoughts and gratitude ~ RL
November 2, 2012 at 11:08 AM
Robyn,
I am so happy to hear from you. You and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers. I am glad you are able to return home. What a tragedy this storm has been. x
November 1, 2012 at 10:44 PM
Thank you dearest Elizabeth! Yes — this was especially difficult for me given the physical pain and dysfunction. I truly did not know how I would be able to manage with my husband stuck out of town. Amazing where we find our strength to survive. Very grateful we are safe and our home stand it tact. Also grieving for those who lost so much. Blessings my friend ~Robyn
November 2, 2012 at 11:11 AM
Hang in there. As my 29 year old son says, “It’s just stuff!” His mom lost the house and two cars. She is currently waiting for the insurance adjusters to see if she can rebuild.
November 1, 2012 at 10:47 PM
So agree Paul ~ “Stuff” is so low on list of priorities! I ran out of the house not even taking or securing any possessions…. just made sure I had my puppy ~ and a few tools to soothe my physical pain ~ even forgot pajamas!!! I hope your family is all doing ok ~ and whatever material things were lost, can be replaced! Best to you friend ~ RL
November 2, 2012 at 11:13 AM
I am happy that you’re heading for home. Also, I am glad that your home was not damaged. I am glad that you’re safe and sound! Love ya!
November 1, 2012 at 10:56 PM
Thanks Tare ~ yes — a crazy week… I cannot even believe it is Friday and I was evacuated on Sunday. It’s like a blur … Certainly you known the physical pain and limitation made this all the more challenging. Sometimes I wonder where our will comes from. Still sooo grateful we are safe ~ thinking of you… we need to catch up soon beautiful friend~ xxooRobyn
November 2, 2012 at 11:16 AM
Beautiful Robyn. So glad you are safe and sound. My family was fortunate as well. My heart is just breaking for all of the people so drastically affected by the storm. My thoughts and prayers are with and for all of them. Blessings to you! Robyn
November 1, 2012 at 10:56 PM
Oh thank you so much Robyn, and sooo relieved to hear your and yours are safe. Yes ~ this storm was like none we’ve ever seen… and for those who were not as lucky as us … my heart cries. Very scary ordeal… Just grateful it is over and will continue to pray for those who lost so much. Love and Blessings , RL
November 2, 2012 at 11:18 AM
So relieved you are okay and this is a beautiful post and portrait. It has been a shock for us over here to see the news footage. So terrible for so many.
November 1, 2012 at 11:01 PM
Thank you so much Julie! Yes so relieved it is behind us ~ and created this post when I was right in the center of the uncertainly. Internet came back yesterday ~ thus my post now. Knew many like you were waiting for update. Soooo appreciate your thoughts and prayers through this ordeal for me and all others who faced struggle and loss in the face of this hurricane. xo R
November 2, 2012 at 11:21 AM
So many words, so I will try to be simple. I am thankful you and yours are well and home. Much sorrow abounds for those who have lost.
So glad..xo
Benjamin
November 1, 2012 at 11:20 PM
Oh my dear Benjamin ~ it is interesting because even with your simplicity – can feel so much caring and compassion in your words. Yes — so much sorrow for those suffering great loss in the face of this tragic storm. Feel lucky this way. Was quite a difficult ordeal, as you probably can relate, given the physical challenges, and fact my husband was stranded in another state. Just grateful for so much ~ Love and Blessings ~ RL
November 2, 2012 at 11:28 AM
So glad you are ok Robyn. Thank God…sorry about the property but very thankful you and yours are well. Praying for qucik recovery for everyone affected
November 1, 2012 at 11:23 PM
Thank you so much boomie. Yes — a lot to be grateful for — now 5 days post evacuation…finally going home! This post was created on the night of the hurricane ~ but internet just returned yesterday, thus posting now. Sending big hug and gratitude for all your prayers and good wishes for our safety! ~ RL
November 2, 2012 at 11:30 AM
Oh, Robyn I’m so sorry you went through all that. You know I went through evacuation from the Waldo Canyon Fire, so I know just how frightening, disorienting, exhausting, and mind-boggling these disasters can be. I’m relieved that you are well and your home is mostly intact (as was ours). Looks like we both weathered terrible storms of life better than so many unfortunate others. Prayers and thoughts to all who are suffering and rebuilding their lives out east. Stay safe and well, dear Robyn. {hugs} Susie
November 1, 2012 at 11:32 PM
Oh yes Susie ~ I do so remember the devastation around the Waldo Canyon Fire, and your amazing documentation through your blog posts. Exactly perfect word you used here “Disorienting” – so frightening, exhausting and mind-boggling– especially in the face of chronic pain and disability. It’s Friday, 5 days later and finally going home. Yes – so relieved we are ok ~ house is standing and all is well…but still so sad for others who were not this lucky. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers dear friend ~ means a lot! Much Love, RL
November 2, 2012 at 11:35 AM
Robyn, I am so sorry for all you had to go through; for the damage and devastation to homes, and the losses that so many suffered. My prayers have been with all affected through this terrible time. I am so glad you are finally on your way home, and continue to pray for all in the rebuilding of homes and lives. I’m so grateful that you and your puppy are safe! Much love and gentle hugs, Julie xoxox
November 2, 2012 at 1:14 AM
Thank you sweet Julie, and I know you can relate to the additional layer this held for me re: pain/dysfunction. So do appreciate your prayers for us, and the all the people she suffered greater loss. Looking forward to going home finally after being without comforts of home ~ and even heat and hot water for so many days. A lot to be grateful for. Blessings and Love ~ RL
November 2, 2012 at 11:37 AM
Glad to see your pic when you “liked” my blog, relieved to know you are ok. The photo is powerful , it expresses the apprehension and tension. Life is precious, jane 🙂
November 2, 2012 at 1:22 AM
Yes ~ have tried to use my cell phone to keep up some with blog reading even when no power or internet …. 3G networks was a blessing!! Thank you so much Jane… Yes – the self-portrait a bit intense — but genuine as it was taken (iPhone ) during the “eye of the storm” ~ so lots of emotion and apprehension… I was also in a great deal of physical pain which made this all the more challenging. Just so grateful to have this behind us — and pray for the rebuilding and healing of those who suffered much greater loss than I . xxoo RL
November 2, 2012 at 11:40 AM
I am relieved to hear you are fine and returning home… as if we don’t have enough up hills to face every day we also have to face nature and things like Sandy… how such a destructive force can be given such a lovely name boggles the mind… I agree with all the other comments about those that lost things… but they are all material.. my heart goes out to those that lost lives and their families…
Disasters are terrible things and one realises how helpless we are in the face of nature and her force… can you imagine what it must of been like in the olden days where there was no organised institutes to forewarn of imminent danger and assist with timely evacuations..
But you are safe, and can now return home to put things right… and hot water and electricity… wow what was it like without those in days of yore…
Oh Robyn… it is just good to hear all is well with you, as if you don’t have enough on your plate, to have to go through this as well… God be with you and have faith… and you remain in my prayers….
November 2, 2012 at 1:45 AM
Thank you so much dearest bulldog… yes this was quite unexpected for me. I often hide in the bubble of fantasy and the blogsphere while coping with pain ~ and I was in denial when reports came in that it was really happening …. until the police came to my door!! Yes — material things — so agree — was the least of my worries… life is what matters ~ comfort and safety and love. I feel very fortunate, and do feel so deeply for those who suffered greater loss and tragedy. You are right ~ cannot imagine what it was like in days before heat and hot water — and electricity. We take a lot of granted. Sending you love and blessings and soooo much gratitude ~ xxoo RL
November 2, 2012 at 2:34 PM
Thank you for checking in to let those who care for you know how you are doing. A lovely self portrait Robyn and verse, but such a scary thing to go through, I am so very happy you are safe and that the damage is not too severe for you. Like you, my heart aches for those who have lost so much and will say prayers for them and their families well being and recovery. Keep taking care of you my oh so special friend, hoping your husband is home with you soonest, with much love (and relief) Penny xxooxx
November 2, 2012 at 3:01 AM
So welcome Penny ~ thank you for caring so much!!! Glad you enjoyed the artistic attempt at capturing my state on Monday night … there was a lot going on ~ including high pain levels so you can imagine what is behind that ‘eye’! Thankful yes — damage could have been much worse… and feel awful for those who are coping with such devastation. Yes ~ thankfully hubby got home Wednesday night ~ after many canceled flights and needing to take several extra plane rides … but hopefully back to normal (if there is such thing 🙂 soon for us~ xxooo Love to you and Christina dearest friends ~~
November 2, 2012 at 2:26 PM
Of course! Dearest one. I wondered about the pain level my oh so brave (and attempts – in photos – to not let this aspect of your life show) friend. I am very pleased hubby is with. I don’t think “normal” fits anywhere anymore, do you? However yes, hopefully back to a somewhat settle routine soonest for you I hope. Does this mean a delay with any of your medical scenerios (trying to be abstruse here, lol) Sending tons of love, support and positive energy from both myself and Christina (leaning over my shoulder as I write this) you are much thought of and loved Robyn! Penny xxxoooxxx
November 2, 2012 at 3:13 PM
So glad you are safely home and also that you had such a warm and supportive experience with all the other souls going through this ordeal.
With all the turmoil, you will still have a few good memories, best wishes, Valerie
November 2, 2012 at 3:14 AM
Yes Valerie ~ even in the crisis ~ there is always light to be found. Thank you so much for your wonderful wishes during this time. Sending Love and Blessings your way!! RL
November 2, 2012 at 2:27 PM
Hey Robyn, good to see you are alive and well. The way people pull together in a crisis does restore one’s faith in human nature. Stay safe.
November 2, 2012 at 3:59 AM
So true dear Paul! Thank you so very much ~ I agree people are pretty amazing at times… Much Love ~ RL
November 2, 2012 at 2:28 PM
I am really happy to know you and your loved ones are safe, Robyn. A truly heartfelt post. Love, Esenga
November 2, 2012 at 4:01 AM
Thank you for your kind words Esenga ~ so appreciate… yes so thankful to be back home and safe … Much Love to you ~ Blessings always, RL
November 2, 2012 at 7:16 PM
thanks for checking in Robyn, was worried about you …. this safe haven hotel with the folks there seems like it helped you and Rumi get through this monster of all monster storms, sending best wishes and prayers to you and your neighbors during this cleanup rebuilding process …. please take care, Jim
November 2, 2012 at 4:14 AM
Thank you dearest Jim. I do appreciate. Yes ~ was so lovely to see how everyone came together in the face of uncertainty that night… Everyone had a different story to tell ~ all important…and much support. Thankfully my cell phone also worked despite all the power and phone outage… so felt connected to family too. So appreciate your good wishes and prayers always ~ RL
November 3, 2012 at 6:40 PM
You’ve said it all Robyn. Blessings to you and everyone else.
November 2, 2012 at 4:34 AM
So appreciate Yaz ~ thank you dear friend. Nice to be home~~ x
November 3, 2012 at 6:42 PM
Dear Robyn, sending best wishes and prayers, to you and all the people you were with during this difficult times
November 2, 2012 at 5:02 AM
Thank you poojy ~ so appreciate and do believe the prayers matter ~ also hoping you are feeling strong these days xo RL
November 3, 2012 at 6:42 PM
glad to know that you are doing okay. Take care..
November 2, 2012 at 5:07 AM
Thank you dear nightlake ~ so appreciate!
November 3, 2012 at 6:43 PM
Dear friend, I am glad you are okay. This is a beautiful entry , allowing us to partake in your world up there. Thoughts and constant prayers to you and all others in the area. God bless! The picture is so lovely. Thank you for sharing. Love…Millie
November 2, 2012 at 5:42 AM
Thank you so much Millie ~ I am relieved and grateful today for the safety and comforts of home. Do appreciate your prayers for all those who are still struggling the aftermath ~ xo Love
November 3, 2012 at 6:44 PM
I’m glad you are safe after this terrifying ordeal. It is sad that some people have lost everything. The compassion of the all the people there is amazing.
November 2, 2012 at 6:39 AM
Yes Alastair ~ compassion is key! I so do agree with you x ~ thank you!!
November 3, 2012 at 6:45 PM
Aww Robyn, it’s so nice to hear your home is mostly in tact, I have been thinking about that over the last few days hoping it would be, I am however sorry for those who did lose there homes. I bet you can’t wait to get home and be in your own comfort.
It sounds like everyone pulled together when you went to the hotel and supported one another, it just shows how amazing and strong some people are, you being one of those.
Great post Robyn and lovely photo, so much depth in your eyes (or on this case eye lol) and I love the Haiku.
Best wishes to you.x
November 2, 2012 at 8:24 AM
Thank you kindly dear Chris… yes – quite an adventure, and lovely to see human spirit at its finest this way. I’m so glad you enjoyed the post combination…. was in a good amount of pain in the photo … in addition to being apprehensive about the impending hurricane. Hope it captured the essence! So appreciate my friend ~ x Robyn
November 4, 2012 at 12:50 AM
I am sorry Robyn, that you among with many others had to go through that storm. I know so many who also affected one way or another by Sandy. I am glad that you are able to return home, God bless you as you begin to rebuild. Hugs…Patty
November 2, 2012 at 9:56 AM
Patty ~ thank you so much for your good wishes and blessings ~ so much appreciate… Hugs ~ Robyn
November 4, 2012 at 8:22 PM
Stay warm, I hear the noreaster is headed your way. Prayers are with you.
November 5, 2012 at 6:06 PM
So glad to hear that you will soon be back in your own home and that you are safe. Our hearts are saddened by those who have lost so much and will continue to be in our prayers.
November 2, 2012 at 11:35 AM
Thank you LuAnn~ yes – am finally home. It is sad to think about how this effected so many lives. We were fortunate Much Love ~ xo
November 4, 2012 at 8:23 PM
Glad you’re okay. What a difficult time for so many. My thoughts are with all who are affected ❤
November 2, 2012 at 4:17 PM
Thank you dear Alex ~ very much appreciate ~ x
November 4, 2012 at 8:23 PM
Robyn, I am so happy that you, your pup and husband are ok. I was thinking of you as I saw the storm come up the coast. Being more inland in MA we didn’t get hit too hard. Hoping that you find healing along this uncertain and unexpected journey, and that your faith sustains you through your recovery and rebuilding. Blessings all around you. Your image is powerful.
Blessings, Erin
November 2, 2012 at 6:43 PM
Thank you dear Erin! ~ image rather intense for me … but that was were I was in the moment I spontaneously took it 🙂 I will actually be heading to MA this week for medical consultation at Boston Children’s Hospital! Just learned a nor-easter storm is on the way… so planning to leave early. Thankful that we managed Hurricane Sandy and happy you did not have as much to contend with… Always appreciate your blessings and good wishes ! Sending Love ~ Robyn
November 5, 2012 at 10:50 AM
Thank goodness you & Rumi are ok. It’s times like these that friends and strangers alike show their true inner selves.
And deep down, it’s reassuring to know that in the depths of tragedy, people can find a common link and caring for their fellow man.
Hope all those that lost their home & possessions will be able to find lodgings & comfort while they re-build their lives.
Sending Love & Healing
Vicki
xox
November 2, 2012 at 7:20 PM
I so agree Victoria ~ sometimes it takes a crisis for people to reveal who they really are, emotionally … and this was a beautiful thing for me to witness, as horrific a situation as it was.I two continue to hope those who have lost homes and suffered can recover well… . Much Love dear one… Robyn
November 5, 2012 at 10:52 AM
Hello Robyn: Glad to hear that you weathered the storm and are okay. I’ve nominated you for the Beautiful Blogger Award because I find your blog so inspiring and so beautiful! You can chose whether you’d like to participate or not.
If you chose to participate, these are the rules:
1. Thank the one who nominated you.
2. Attach the award to your site.
3. List 7 random things about yourself
4. Nominate 15 other bloggers
To see an example of how I did it, check out
http://optimismofcolor.com/2012/11/03/beautiful-blogger-award/
Cheers, Linda
November 3, 2012 at 7:43 AM
Thank you sooooo much for this Linda ~ very honored and appreciative…and congratulations to you as well! Blessings and Love to you always, R
November 5, 2012 at 10:53 AM
This hurricane was really something. So many people lost so much. It’s sad. Robyn I’m glad you were able to return home and that you have heat, power and hot water. I’ll be returning to work on Monday after having an unplanned week-long vacation.
November 3, 2012 at 11:43 AM
Yes Renee… pretty intense last week. Happy it’s behind us. Hope all is stable over there… NYC got hit pretty hard too! Another storm on the way — just in time for my trip to Boston to consult with a hip specialist… Will fly in early just to avoid the chaos. Sending Love ~ Robyn
November 5, 2012 at 10:55 AM
I thought about you a lot
thank God you are safe
November 3, 2012 at 12:37 PM
Masticone – that is sooo sweet and I truly appreciate your thoughtful caring wishes… Blessings ~ Robyn
November 5, 2012 at 10:55 AM
hold on..
you can do it…
you are just great
November 5, 2012 at 11:15 AM
😉
November 5, 2012 at 11:24 AM
Nature played a role, I hope everyone would settle in their lives soon. Peace and love for them.
You pointed out this: “the instant shared camaraderie and faith among these strangers, in the face of fear.”
Naturally, in the time of wrath, we come over our ego. Life we know then.
Blessings and love to each and every soul. I hope you are safe and in peace.
November 3, 2012 at 3:21 PM
Glad you are safe and healthy….Things everybody will recover from; happiness stems from appreciating a second chance to rebuild those things. It so beautiful to see people comes together; it should never take hell to create heaven but we are blessed to have witness heaven if only for a moment. “Humanity can be Great and now we have proof”!!!!
November 4, 2012 at 8:09 PM
AB – thank you — your words struck me here…
“It should never take hell to create heaven but we are blessed to have witness heaven if only for a moment. “
They will stay with me for certain ~ Love and Blessings ~ R
November 5, 2012 at 10:57 AM
Thinking of you, my dear friend, with gratitude that you and Rumi are safe and that your home was spared by the fury of the storm. Blessings with a full heart, -A
November 5, 2012 at 6:43 AM
Thank you so much Dearest Angela.. Yes ~ very glad the hurricane adventure has passed… Grateful for safety and warmth again… So appreciate your lovely words today ~ x RL
November 5, 2012 at 10:58 AM
Robyn, just saw this…must have missed it on the reader….lovely self-portrait here and hope you have found your way home by now…xoxmeryl
November 5, 2012 at 9:39 AM
Thank you Meryl! Yes was home Friday… But flew to Boston yesterday for big medical consult this week. Seems I’m world adventurer theses days. 🙆Wish me luck… Seeing top dysplasia specialist at Harvard…. And then hopefully our nor’easter will pass before my flight back! Xxxooo
November 7, 2012 at 7:54 AM
That sounds promising Robyn!!! Let me know how it goes…xom
November 7, 2012 at 9:42 AM
Will do Meryl ~ really just want validation that removing my hip joint is likely to address the pain and instablity. This guy is #1 in Dysplasia… mostly does big reconstruction on kids…but knows what this condition looks like so hoping at least will gain confidence that my next move will be a good one… xo
November 7, 2012 at 10:04 AM
Wow! Wow! and OMG! I’m so glad to hear you are going home. My thoughts are with you, and everyone who has suffered, and are yet suffering through this ordeal.
November 5, 2012 at 4:00 PM
Thanks so much sweet Resa… home as of Friday but traveling again ~ in time for another storm… hopefully I will make my medical consult in Boston and be able to get home by plane… So appreciate your wishes, and hope you are well!! xo
November 5, 2012 at 6:35 PM
On top of everything else, another storm… Oh Robyn! I’m putting out my biggest ever positive energy for you. xoxoxo Resa
November 5, 2012 at 6:39 PM
So appreciate Resa… for me — you just take care of YOU right now…most important thing. I’m here in Boston ~ beat the storm… so fine. Sending prayers and Love ~ x R
November 7, 2012 at 9:08 AM
Take care in Boston, Robyn.
My thoughts are with you.
November 7, 2012 at 10:28 AM
That’s a very moving image, Robyn. So wonderful that you came through the storm safely and that you get to return home. Sending hugs your way!
November 5, 2012 at 9:52 PM
Thank you so much Fergie! Yes,, very grateful in many ways. So appreciate your hugs ~ and send some right back to you my friend ! ~ x Robyn
November 7, 2012 at 9:06 AM
I am it’s over and i am glad you are fine.
We pray for all who have lost their lives or damage of property. This was a touching post my friend.
November 7, 2012 at 8:04 AM
Yes Suri – me too and soooo grateful … and also so appreciateie of your warm words and good wishes ~ Blessings and Love to you ~ R
November 7, 2012 at 10:05 AM
Much love to you as well Robyn.
November 17, 2012 at 1:06 AM
Thank you so much dear Walter ~ x RL
November 17, 2012 at 11:59 AM
I very much appreciate reading first-hand of Sandy. It would be so weird to be evacuated from home – and with your dog, and all those other pets. What a clean up… sincere best.
November 18, 2012 at 12:23 AM