Whole Lot of Shaking Goin' On

The East Coast earthquake was a hot topic. We felt the shakes, cookie jars, pictures and walls were rattling. A bit unnerving but we're fine. Mr. Bettis and Gypsy ignored the whole event while Molly and Calico (the old one) pinned their ears and went into hiding.
However the earthquake wasn't the only thing hot around here. Within minutes of the quake a local gas station erupted into flames.


Our local fire departments (volunteer as well) were on the scene. These men and women are heroes in my book. DH was a junior firemen in his younger days and went on to be a volunteer fireman for many years until his spine injury interferred.






This picture was taken when the first responders were on the scene. Only took a few more minutes and the main road was shut down.

Thankfully no one was injured but the station has been declared 'totaled'.

That's all the news in this neck of the woods for now and quite frankly we don't need anymore. But wait! Hurricane Irene is fast approaching the area of Chem DD's college and we're now re-evaluating move in day which is scheduled for Sunday. In the meantime I'm knitting like mad ;)

Fire & Water

10:39 pm - We retired early due to the previous long night of after-prom chaperone duty.

11:40 p.m. - I awoke to a LOUD pop. I nudged the husband and asked him if he heard the noise. Next thing I knew, The smoke alarm was going off and I could smell something burning.
DD came out of her room asking what was going on and she could smell something burning.

Husband ran downstairs to see if he could find the source. DD and I went to the kitchen/living room area and the living room was filling up with smoke fast. I yelled for the husband.
DD herded Mr. Bettis & Co. outside and I dialed 911. Of course, we were ordered to leave the house.
Our local volunteer fire dept arrived within minutes (they live 1/4 mile from our house). They had just returned from another house fire so they were at the station when our call came in. They and hubby checked the source with a heat sensor and then checked out the electric box.

This was the source of the fire.


The lamp on the stand was plugged into an electric cord. There was a small glass of water on the stand and we figure one of the cats knocked over the glass and the water seeped into the cord plug. Take note that Electric and Water do not mix.

We appreciate our fire company, they dedicate their lives to volunteer their time to protect citizens. So the next time you see a fireman/firewoman give them a big thank you.

On a lighter note: Chan, please tell Sissy that Mr. Bettis thought the men and woman dressed in fire company gear were the greatest company he's ever greeted. He wagged his tail and licked their hands.
Daughter made a joke that she was a little disappointed because there weren't any young good-looking firemen...........LOL