I know, I know. Most of you are probably thinking I'm absolutely crazy right now. And it's ok. But, when you grow up here...tornado season is a big deal. Spotting a funnel on a night full of tornado warnings, rough storms, thunder, lightning and hail is kind of a big deal - it's a sport.
This is where I grew up. My spring and summer nights were filled with thunderstorms and the possibility of tornadoes. I spent many a school night in the storm cellar waiting out a tornado. I didn't grow up in the heart of Oklahoma, so I didn't experience the fated May 3, 1999 tornado. I did, however, experience one a day or two later. Well, it came close. The funnel was literally right over our house. I can vividly remember hearing my mom say "It's over my house, it's over my house" while she and Dad were standing near the entrance of the cellar that was protecting us. I'm not sure how long we stayed in the cellar with my dad at the door "checking things out", my mom panicking, and listening to the tornado sirens blare on and on. Lucky for us, the funnel traveled about 15 miles before finally dropping up-river in Van Buren, AR. Those families were hard hit.
Last night, 40 tornadoes touched down in and around my homestate. {Note: 5 people lost their lives to these storms...my prayers are with them.} Meanwhile, I'm in beautiful Hawaii wishing for a thunderstorm!!! What?! It's so crazy the things you miss!!! Even when I had that freakout in Georgia I wanted it to storm. I haven't been through a decent storm since I got married! For someone who grew up with storms every spring and summer, this is a big deal. And I'm so glad that one person in my blogging realm understands. JG was super nice and posted a video of hail for me on her blog!!! (Ok, maybe it wasn't just for me.) I was totally joking when I asked her to video it, but she did anyway! It was hilarious, and totally awesome! I seriously could have hugged her for that. =) Don't get me wrong, I'm lovin' living here, but a thunderclap or two might make me feel a little more at home! Or maybe a REAL dream catcher. Ugh, there are so many total fakes. Sorry, that's what happens when you grow up in "Indian Territory."
Also, today is my Mom's birthday. =) I'm totally jealous because when I called to wish her a happy birthday, she informed me that she got a cookie cake!!! Totally not fair, Mom! I want some! But, it sounds like she had a good day and got some awesome stuff. Props to my dad for getting her new pots and pans. After 20 something years of marriage, I'd say they were well deserved! I wish I could have been there to give her a big hug, but the "Aloha" coffee mug will have to suffice for now. {Btw, my mom is a serious coffee drinker. Seriously, the woman can't start her day without the first 2 cups of coffee. =) Thus, the mug.
So, Happy Birthday to my Mom and Happy Tuesday to all the rest of you!
