For over a week now we’ve seen so many images/videos coming out of the areas of the country that have been devastated by Hurricane Helene. So many of you have donated time, effort, monetarily and with much needed supplies. Groups of pilots (airplane and helicopter), seasoned hikers going into tough terrain, everyday folks doing the unthinkable to help their neighbors or total strangers…

There have been bogus claims floating around which doesn’t aid in the recovery efforts. Everyone was 100% giving, helping, praying, wanting to know how they could help in any way. We NEED to be able to help, even if from a distance. From the basics like food and water, Starlink or other communication devices to help get people in touch with loved ones who fear they’re missing. These devices have become just as essential.

In addition to so many groups of volunteers, (some who run the operation like Chick-fil-A runs their operation – with smooth precision, hundreds of volunteers and everything happening in a timely manner) despite what some are saying FEMA is helping people, the Air National Guard HAS been dropping supplies. It only hinders donations when political statements are shared on large platforms saying none of this is happening (this is NOT a political post in any way). I’m just saying, please fact check before you share something that isn’t true. Some are now NOT donating because they don’t want FEMA to “confiscate donation”, etc. The people, especially in remote areas of the mountains may not see FEMA/etc. for a longer period of time because of the logistics. I would think they drop the areas that have the largest impact. Others are getting to these small remote areas, especially with those who KNOW the area well. So it’s important to continue to give to local agencies/groups/churches where you know they’re doing the most good.

Let us all be thankful for the little things like food, water, a place to sleep at night. For roads that are not compromised, for little things like ice in our tea glass. Find a way to volunteer (whether it be collecting, donating or being part of something larger). Do whatever you can to help.

The image above is near where we live in Charleston. Image taken a few years ago – I wanted something soothing while I hop on my soapbox. #factcheckeverything Let’s not get in the way of getting aid to people who need it. Please say prayers or send good vibes or whatever to the people of Florida, after Hurricane Helene, the thought of yet ANOTHER major hurricane to fly across the state is hard to even imagine. The exhaustion is real, just like climate change. It’s clearly not a hoax, it’s something that needs to be dealt with before it’s too late.

Hoping off the ole soapbox now. Wishing you a week filled with happiness.

#happybirthdaymom! 🥳🙌 #loveyou! 🎉🎂

👩‍💻 Until next time…