Work saves us from three great evils: boredom, vice and need. (Voltaire)

Tuesdays Photos - "Fruit"

So far, Southeast Florida has been very lucky. Ernesto has not only remained a tropical storm, but it hasn't brought the winds and rain that were predicted. In fact, it's been boring. The kids and I have been sitting inside, just waiting for something to happen. Everything is closed, so we can't go anywhere. I suppose we could have done some heavy housecleaning, or finished one of the many projects on my "to do" list. And there's still time this afternoon to accomplish something... Yeah, right. I'll probably just play on the computer.

I keep thinking about the next storm. I know that there's going to be another before the season ends this year, and I'm worried that the next one won't be taken seriously. Too many people lost wages because businesses closed for Ernesto when they could have been working; too many people rushed around getting supplies that weren't needed; too many wrestled with their shutters and sat in the dark while the sun shone outside; too many people sat in shelters and watched the gentle breeze and wondered "why are we here?" -- are these people are going to ignore the warnings the next time?

I also have to admire the media people. Their job is to create excitement for their round-the-clock storm coverage. Yesterday morning, the television announcers even had me worried. They kept us informed of the storm's progress, with dire warnings of wind speed and excessive rain that would cause devestating flooding. They reminded us to get gas while we still could, pointing out which stations had long lines or had run out of fuel. They made endless announcements of the closings in our area, and reminded us that we shouldn't go out unless absolutely necessary. They showed crowds of people buying water and canned items, and implied that those of us not in that crowd were too late.

Today, they're still doing their best to keep the excitement going. It's harder, though, since Ernesto has calmed down so much. Now they are are giving warnings such as "People should stay inside, unless you have a proper umbrella. Otherwise you may get wet if a rainband makes it around to your area."