the ones who live right on the ship channel, where Ike is heading. The storm surge is, of course, going to continue up into Galveston Bay and flood surrounding neighborhoods. One of our houses is about 2 miles from the bay. It's probably underwater by now.

On the coast, they were experiencing waves as high as a two story building. They stated that people on Galveston Island that tried to last out the storm faced "almost sure death." Fortunately, my family isn't that close to the beach, but one of my aunts lives in Port Arthur, which was already flooded before Ike made landfall.

Here it is 2 am in California and I am up trying to find out what I can from any news stories that may be available. It is sort of slim pickings as most reporters are hunkered down and trying to last it out themselves. I know there are a few Cuties that are actually in that area, fairly close to Houston, so let's all put up a prayer right now while they are in the midst of such a terrible time. Ike is reported to be the worst storm to hit Texas this generation. I presume that they mean Carla was the worst in 1961, but I rode out Alicia in '83. It was the last direct hit that Houston took.

Now is the worst time for them. It is dark and they are most likely without power or phone. This is when your fears take hold and they run away with you.

Please God, hold tight in your hands our loved ones who are in the midst of this terrible hurricane. It is with your help that all will make it through. If you see fit that some come home to you, make it swift, but I know it is within your power to give everyone the strength they need, both physically and emotionally. We know not what your plan is for all of this, but Thy will be done. Amen