Just Lucky I guess

I consider myself very lucky – I was without power for a total of about 18 hours this past weekend. I actually spent Saturday night reading Game Change by flashlight. Once it became evident that the power would not go on in the customary “few minutes” I noticed how much there was not to do at home. No TV, computer, no email, no music – couldn’t even do any of my scheduled chores since nearly all required the application of that oh so useful “juice” from the grid.
Heat wasn’t really a problem – it was warm enough in the house – and even the following morning, when I and a couple of friends indulged ourselves by going out for breakfast (along, it seemed with the rest of Northern New Jersey!) it was still somewhat OK temperature wise.
I give credit to the good guys at PSE&G and the other utility companies for cleaning up so quickly. I saw trucks leaving the neighborhood early Sunday am (we’re talking wee hours here folks. . .) and give the “thumbs up” for their efforts in the rain (even though my power wasn’t restored at that time.)
I spent a goodly amount of time searching for info on my “smart phone” and neither the local utility site, or the NJ Office of Emergency Management had ANYTHING useful. Oh – though, I did get a mechanized phone call from Emergency Management on Sunday night (After my power was back) informing that the power was out (Really? I wouldn’t have noticed – thanks for the call) and that we had another 3-4 days to go. Of course, at this time, my TV was blaring (making up for lost time you know), the electric kitchen stove was in the process of brewing up some dinner goodies, and the lights were burning brightly. Really OEM – get your act together!
My heart goes out to those still in the dark – literally as well as figuratively – hope your juice starts to flow soon.