Reflecting on Storms Riley’s Experience

Last week, we experienced the full force of Storms and torrential rain, and 75mph winds wreaking havoc.  It was a challenging and rough encounter that served as a stark reminder of how much we often overlook and take for granted our daily existence. During that moment, it became evident that simple conveniences we usually enjoy are precious blessings that deserve our appreciation.

Basic amenities: Necessities we don’t fully appreciate

On that Friday the 2nd, we were without electricity. Normally the lights will flicker and be back. We decided to wait it out and sleep in the dark. If it were Nigeria, We would have a generator to the rescue (up NEPA). 

We decided to wait it out and sleep in the dark. If it was Nigeria, we would have a generator to the rescue (up NEPA).

Electricity was not restored. By morning, the temperature in the house had dropped from 70F to 59F. We needed to seek shelter fast! It was freezing and the nearest available hotel was 2 towns away. Check-in could only be after 3 pm, we finally settled for Comfort Inn in Randolph. Thinking we could grab a quick bite at IHOP. It was shut down. The nearest Dunkin Donuts was closed, and the nearest Mac Donald’s had a queue so long we had to wait 40 minutes. Folks were hungry, angry, and testy.

I visited The Cheesecake Factory on Friday and ordered a very juicy burger, I ate the remaining half for breakfast. That held me quite a bit while we waited in line at Mikkie-Dees. We finally grabbed our order and headed to church.  There was electricity, it was warm.

Making the Best of a Challenging Situation

There was no electricity at TamBo’s Kitchen either, and the basement had flooded. I had a catering order that Saturday.

Life was giving me lemons in basket loads. Rather than watch the lemons rot, I made lemonade, lemon tarts, and sherbets from them. I was turning adversity into an opportunity. The past weekend a year ago, was special because I was preparing for chemo and launching the restaurant. This year, I wanted to thank God for how far He had brought me, and nothing would stop it. Absolutely nothing!! 

Rather than call the client and give her a bad report, I finished the prepping and catering at the reception location.  I woke up early on Sunday morning with two flashlights and catered for my Thanksgiving reception (don’t ask me how). 

Strom Riley’s may have tested our endurance, but it reminded us to cherish and appreciate the things we often take for granted. This experience taught us the joy of turning challenges into opportunities for adaptation, growth, and celebration.