Exhausted

Had it not been for TV and internet yesterday, I would not have had a clue. The sun was shining here and the day could not have been more beautiful.

But just a few miles north of Vicksburg, it was another story. A tornado skipped over Vicksburg, only to touch down in Eagle Lake. Eagle Lake is a beautiful spot and a number of people have weekend homes there. However, for several more, it is year-round "home."

One of these residents is my stepmom's oldest son. He was driving his truck when the tornado hit. When a tree fell on his truck, he escaped with only minor injuries by flattening himself across the passenger seat. His truck is a total loss, but fortunately, he will be OK. His trailer sports trees on the roof and it no longer has windows, but hopefully can be salvaged.

A little piece down the road, his stepdaughter, her husband, and two small children under 5 were saved by a visiting relative who came in, got them down on the floor, and covered the children's bodies with his own. Little Reed and Tucker are OK, thanks to quick thinking and action on this man's part.

Few people around here are not touched by this in some way. Many of us have friends and relatives in Yazoo City. Some of us had people traveling when this tornado hit. I am thankful that my dad had the presence of mind to stop in Kosciusko and find safe shelter. Choctaw County, where they were headed, was hit and people (including two children) killed.

I am still waiting for word of friends in Yazoo City. Phone lines are down and cell towers destroyed. Someone started a Facebook group to help us get information from that area.

The tension of yesterday, concerned about friends and loved ones in the storm's path has left me exhausted. Even today, I feel like I have been beat with the proverbial "ugly stick."

But, you can bet I am counting my blessings!