The damage report so far

Here's the status of the six Maier residences that were in Katrina peril, with a few notes on their inhabitants:

• Dad Marty's place in Metairie: Very minimal wind damage, no flooding, power and water are either restored or never went out. This is definitely the best of our news. Marty had a good day today, watching TV and sneaking junk food with his "pretty girls" (Marjie and Chloe) and going with Frank and me to run a couple of errands. With Chris and Judy both gone, he had a rather inexperienced nurse (me!) giving him his insulin, but we muddled along.
• Sister Chris' place in River Ridge: Fence blew down, no flooding, no power yet. Chris toured it today and gathered some belongings and is now back with us in Houston.
• Sister Judy's place in Slidell: Front staircase wiped out, power boat lifted off trailer and deposited in the front yard, deep flooding that we're still hoping didn't reach the living area on the second level. Judy and Gary are staying at Marty's place for the time being, and Judy is returning to work at East Jefferson hospital.
• Judy's daughter Lori's place in Covington: Significant roof damage led to ruined property inside, carport fell down on Lori's car. Lori's son, Brian, flew to North Carolina today to stay with his Uncle Jerry and Aunt Cori and return to school. Lori and Bobby are staying with Bobby's mom in Madisonville.
• Chris' son Paul's place in Lakeview (New Orleans neighborhood near the lake): Totally flooded, with extensive loss of fancy electronics and other belongings. Once services are restored, Paul will live with Chris and work with his dad, Pat.
• Our boat in Slidell: Reports are that it's either sunk or blown ashore, with both scenarios really bad news for our cruising plans. Frank and I will attempt to go see for ourselves tomorrow.

In addition to our cellular and satellite phones, VHF radios, some spare gas, and our own food and water, we have 35 gallons of water and miscellaneous other supplies loaded into our van, ready for delivery to Slidell relief crews tomorrow. With 12 hours' driving minimum ahead of us and an unknown amount of time spent in (careful!) salvage work, I won't be posting again until Thursday. So don't worry in the meantime!

KQR