Hello, Hex Squad! I wanted to reach out and give you all an update after Hurricane Milton swept through. Your messages on Instagram, Facebook, and emails checking in on me truly warmed my heart. Thank you so much for thinking of me and my family during these back-to-back hurricanes.
I’m happy to report that Dave, the girls, and I are doing well, despite both Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton pummeling the Tampa Bay area. It’s been a whirlwind, but we’re safe and sound.
Our Home: A Safe Haven
When we bought our home six years ago, we chose a location 20 miles inland from the Gulf Coast, firmly situated in a no-flood, no-evacuation zone within the Tampa Bay area. Being risk-averse, I wanted a place that would keep us protected, even if it limited our options at the time.
Around the time of my divorce, I invested in a new roof, and later, Dave and I added automated storm shutters for extra security. Remarkably, our home has weathered every major hurricane in the past 20 years without sustaining any damage. The neighborhood lake, which you can see in the photo above, absorbed a significant amount of water after the storm, helping prevent flooding in our immediate area.
Our Chosen Family
While we were fortunate to be in a safe zone, many of our friends and chosen family weren’t as lucky. We welcomed Mickey and his fiancé Dustin—along with their three cats and adorable dog—and our friend Cary with his sweet pup into our home. In total, we had five humans, four dogs, and three cats under one roof for almost a week!
It was a full house, but I’m incredibly grateful we could offer a safe haven for those we love. Sharing our space brought us all closer together, and the support we provided each other made the challenging times more bearable.
After Hurricane Milton Resources
Milton Cleanup Hotline – 844-956-1386
FEMA Registration – 1-800-621-3362
Florida Emergency Hotline – 1-800-342-3557
Habitat for Humanity – 813-239-2248
Disaster Distress Helpline – 1-800-985-5990
I wanted to share these after hurricane resources in case you needed them. It’s normal to experience emotional distress after back to back disasters. If you need help, call the Disaster Distress Helpline.
Power Outages and Flooding
The Greater Tampa Bay area is still grappling with widespread flooding and power outages. While Mickey and Dustin finally had their power restored yesterday, many Floridians remain without electricity. Some communities are even facing boil-water advisories due to compromised water supplies.
Flooding has affected numerous neighborhoods around us, leading to school cancellations and unsafe driving conditions on many roads. Even though our street remained dry, seeing the surrounding areas struggle has been heart-wrenching.
My Favorite Part
Amid the chaos and uncertainty, my favorite part of having everyone at our home was the precious quality time we shared together. From joining Dave and me on our morning walks to cooking meals and watching movies as a big, blended family—it was heartwarming beyond words. The laughter echoing through the house, the impromptu dance parties, and the deep conversations late into the night turned a stressful situation into an unforgettable bonding experience. These moments reminded me of the importance of community and how, even in the toughest times, we can find joy and connection.
The Worst Part
The night Hurricane Milton made landfall was truly terrifying. Listening to the storm’s relentless winds ripping at our home was the most frightening experience I’ve ever endured. The howling gusts felt like they might tear the roof right off, and the walls seemed to shudder with each powerful surge. Sleep was impossible—I lay awake, heart pounding, waiting for the winds to die down even a little. It was a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictable power, and it left me feeling both humbled and profoundly grateful when the storm finally passed and we were all safe.
Final Thoughts
I’m continually reminded of the strength and resilience of our community during these times. Thank you again for all your love and support. Please keep those affected in your thoughts, and let’s continue to look out for one another.
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