During the past two weeks though, I haven't really had the heart and/or ability to consistently post due to a little storm named Sandy. Unfortunately this storm hit too close to home. The last two weeks have been put on hold, while we prepared, endured and attempted to recover from the "Frankenstorm".
In my neck of the woods (northern NJ), we got hit pretty hard. We don't live along the shore, but still experienced very strong winds that have led to no power, limited gas and groceries, no school and a vast amount of tree damage. This insanity has led us all to resort to survival mode... keeping generators running, traveling from grocery to grocery to find milk and produce, finding enough firewood to heat your home, etc. What I was wearing was obviously not much of a priority. Especially since I needed a candle to dig my way through my closet. So, I have spent most of my time in wellies, leggings and sweaters, which is all you really need in colder, wet weather. My friends and I even started to liken ourselves to the characters on Revolution... I am telling you, things have been crazy. (And it sounds much more believable over a glass of wine!)
Most importantly, we are resilient. We laughed, cried and drank our way through the last two weeks, and now things are slowly getting back to normal. While we have struggled through this experience, we do realize that we all are all still very lucky - we did not lose our homes.
A private group on Facebook of over 1,000 moms was my inspiration today. This group kept my spirits up during the storm, was my source of information the days after and has made me realize how lucky we truly are. Now, they are doing what they can to help those have not been as fortunate.
Rather than writing about what to wear today, I would like everyone to go into their closets and pull out several items that you will never miss... sweaters you haven't touched in ages, the jeans that are never going to fit again or that coat that is pushed so far back in your closet, you forgot you owned it. Do this in your husband/boyfriend's closet as well as your kids' closets too. Pack up these items and donate them to the Hurricane Sandy victims.
Locally (Wyckoff area), clothing donations can be dropped off at Coldwell Banker at 372 Franklin Ave in Wyckoff (parking in the rear). For those living somewhat near the areas affected most by Sandy, check out your area on Patch.com. This lists organizations that are collecting donations locally. For those further away, you can send the clothing to one of these organizations or drop off at your nearest Salvation Army.
Clothing is not the only thing needed - tools, cleaning supplies, blankets, toiletries, etc. These can also be donated or simply a monetary donation is appreciated - Salvation Army Hurricane Sandy Relief. Take a minute to appreciate how lucky you are, and then spend a few more to help those in need.
- Allison
*Photos courtesy of google.com.
Apparently clothing donations are no longer needed. (But the Senior Center in Midland Park is still accepting them)
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