Looks as if we here in Houston are likely targets for this week's hurricane. I spent today preparing so now the question is whether to stay in place for the storm or to evacuate to a hotel a bit more inland. We can make that decision around noon tomorrow. If Ike doesn't get stronger then it makes sense to stay home. Otherwise, I have reservations at a hotel in The Woodlands that will accept my dog. Hotel taxes have just been suspended so that option is looking far more attractive.

I expect we'll lose power so I'll be out of touch for a while. I don't live anywhere near the storm surge area so I'm not in any real danger. We've stowed our desktop computers, Joe's recording equipment, and his MANY instruments at my super-secure office. This house is normally a bastion of healthy food but veggies tend to rot quickly and taste better when cooked, so...the kitchen is now brimming with junk food like PopTarts for the boys, Fritos, pretzels, bean dip, water, Gatorade (for post-hurricane when it's stinky hot & humid and we have no a.c.), juice, bread, and margarita ingredients. I'm planning to watch Farscape on my laptop and drink margaritas. :)

Just announced was that New Orleans is offering discounts on hotels and restaurants to evacuating Houstonians. We aren't headed that far away but I'm seriously touched. *hugs NOLa*