So, I've been swamped with e-mails lately, wondering how I'm doing in the wake of all of the flooding out here in Iowa. I'm not really sure what to say. My husband & I are fine. We are safe, and our home was not hit by the floods. But it is not the case for so many others that we love, here in this town that we love.
Iowa City will never be the same. The University of Iowa, my alma mater, has several buildings still under water - some may be a total loss. Businesses & restaurants we love are gone. The restaurant where we had our rehearsal dinner before our wedding had 4-5 feet of water. And Reminisce, one of two beloved scrapbook stores in our area, is expected to be a total loss.
Here are some of my husband's photos from last week:
The good news is, after all, we're Iowans. Iowans care about their communities. We'll come together, and we'll rebuild. But it's going to take awhile. And it won't ever be the same. My worldview has been completely and totally altered. You just can't take things for granted.
A few weeks ago, our TV broke, and I was so annoyed and frustrated. Now, I couldn't feel more thankful that it's just a broken TV. I have so much to be thankful for, and so many blessings in my life. Watching our friends & our town go through this is life-changing. I just don't know how else to describe it.
Destruction & devastation are everywhere. Yet, in the midst of all of that, hope prevails.
****
For photos & more info about the current status of Reminisce, visit their blog.
Designs By Reminisce (the manufacturer) has released a paper & sticker commemorating the flood. All proceeds will be donated to the Red Cross. For more info, visit their website.
