The World According to JP

Charley roared through Kissimmee Friday night. My aunt and uncle stayed put because, as they said, every time there's a hurricane in the Gulf or Atlantic, they always assume the worst and, after living in Kissimmee for 25 years, nothing ever happens. Ever. Well, they can't say that any more. They were pelted for 70 of what they called the most terrifying minutes of their lives with 120 mph winds, rain and hail. That wasn't the problem, however. The problem was when the tornado touched down right next to their house. They were lucky - the tornado just ripped the roof off their house, it totally leveled the empty house next to theirs.

Now comes the rebuilding stage. Whereas they didn't come through unscathed, it could have been a lot worse. Many people lost everything, and my heart goes out to them. I may make a trip back east to help them rebuild, but the jury's still out on that.

Thanks to all of you that sent prayers and thoughts my (their) way. It kept them safe.

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