You may have seen the news about the devastating tornadoes that tore their way through several states over the weekend. Here in Bowling Green, KY, an EF-3 struck at approximately 1:25 AM Saturday morning resulting in several deaths. The death toll is still rising. Many people lost their homes and businesses, and the destruction in some hard hit areas is catastrophic. These folks could sure use your prayers. If you’d like to donate to the relief fund, you can do that HERE.
Hubby and I were out of town visiting Son #2 in Austin, TX and had no idea if our house was even standing. Luckily, we were able to reach friends who confirmed our neighborhood was spared. Needless to say, we feel very blessed. While in Austin, I experienced Russian food for the first time. If you ever have the opportunity to try khinkali, Georgian dumplings made of twisted knobs of dough and stuffed with meats and spices, I highly recommend it. Sooo good. I’m drooling again just thinking about it. We went on a ghost tour (not the best I’ve been on) Friday night, and visited the adorable town of Fredericksburg on Sunday afternoon and did some Christmas shopping. Below are a couple of pics. The first is of the Driskill Hotel taken on the ghost tour, and the other is from a park in Fredericksburg.
I also received some good news Friday night – I got into the SOKY Bookfest here in Bowling Green in March! Local schools attend a children’s day that Friday, and Saturday is open to the public and full of panels and signings. If you live in the area, mark your calendars for March 26th – it’s free to attend.
Hope you all have a fantastic week!
Books and Such 
The destruction from the tornadoes is devastating. I’m glad your neighborhood was spared. I had to check on both of my kids, and thankfully they were fine (though my daughter did spend time in a closet during the tornado warnings).
Congratulations on getting into the fair. Looking forward to your post about it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
So glad to hear your kids are safe, Staci – some scary times this weekend. We would have been taking shelter in our own closet if we’d been home.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank God you guys weren’t there and the house is good. It was horrible that night. I’m in northern Indiana and we had warnings too, our neighbors barn was crushed, it was just a crazy night. I didn’t even know Kentucky got it so bad until the next day. Glad you’re all safe. Definitely praying for everyone there.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Relieved to hear you’re safe, Jenn, but sorry to hear about your neighbor’s property. So many losses from those storms.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was mostly offline this weekend with very little contact to what was going on in the world. Although I like the downtime, I’m only now learning how tragic the tornadoes were. I’m so glad your house was spared, Teri. Thinking of the destruction and the deaths (especially this close to Christmas) is gut-wrenching.
I’m glad you were far away and had an enjoyable time with your son!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Those first few hours before we heard anything were scary, but we’re so fortunate not to have had any damage. Considering the way Bond reacts to thunder, he may still be hiding under the bed when we get home today, lol.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Glad to hear you are ok and your house is still standing. The news has been awful. Good news about getting into the fair.
LikeLiked by 2 people
The pics I’ve seen are just heartbreaking, Darlene. The community has really stepped up with shelters, free meals, and donations.
LikeLiked by 2 people
So awful and scary – glad your house and neighborhood was okay. I can sure emphasize with those people who lost loved ones and everything. I survived an EF5 tornado here in our town back in 1970. Devastation was everywhere.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I can’t even imagine what a 5 would look like, Barbara. What a terrifying experience that must have been!
LikeLiked by 2 people
It’s so good to hear that your house and neighborhood was spared, Teri. I thought about you. Sending up prayers for all affected. How wonderful to get to soak up some local Austin flavor and Fredericksburg is such a FUN place to visit! Congrats on getting into the Book Fest!
LikeLiked by 2 people
We were really blessed, Jan. We had a wonderful time in Austin, and Fredericksburg was such fun. A friend who lived in Austin several years ago recommended it.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Congratulations on making it into the SOKY Bookfest in March. Yes, the tornado news is so sad. Lots of prayers.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Priscilla! I was thrilled to get in this year, and it’s always well-attended. I’m sure I’ll be fangirling over some of the other authors there, lol.
LikeLiked by 1 person
So glad you did not suffer supper damage, Teri. Fredricksburg is a cute place for sure. Congratulations on the Bookfest.
LikeLiked by 1 person
We were so lucky, John. Son #2 enjoyed Fredericksburg so much he’s taking a friend back next weekend to one of the beer gardens there.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sounds great.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I was just thinking about you this morning when I heard the news on the radio! I thought “But…Teri lives in Kentucky”. So I am glad that you are safe and that your house has been spare. I am sad for all the people who lost their lives and house. And also sad for the workers in the candle factory!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Just horrible news, Sophie – so sad. The community is coming together to help those who lost so much. It’s really heartwarming to see.
LikeLiked by 1 person
So glad you were safe and that your neighborhood was spared. The devastation is terrible. I haven’t been on a ghost tour in Austin, but I’ve heard stories about the Driskill. Congrats on getting into the book fair!
LikeLiked by 2 people
The hotel was beautiful, Joan. We wanted to go inside but ran out of time. The guide told us some stories about brides hanging themselves. Sound familiar?
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve heard some of those stories. Might be a future blog post.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am really glad that the weather spared you and yours! We were watching things here in central Illinois and were pretty shocked to see such damage. A big juicy ol’ congratulations on getting into the book fair! That’s awesome. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Sue! I’m excited about the book fair – always a good turnout. We were so lucky not to have any damage, and I heard this morning that volunteers are coming out in droves. Such a great thing when the community comes together.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a relief that you had a home to come back to! It’s pretty sobering, all the same.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It sure is, Deby. It’s something that never crossed my mind. Tornadoes just aren’t that common in our area.
LikeLike
It’s great your home was safe and looks like you had a great time. I never tried Russian food before but when I get a chance I’ll keep your suggestion in mind.
LikeLiked by 2 people
We were so relieved, Yesha. The Russian food was a hit for all of us. Hope you get a chance to try it sometime.
LikeLiked by 1 person
So glad you’re okay, Teri. Huge congrats on the book fest for March! 💕🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Harmony! It was a weekend filled with lows and highs for sure.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank goodness you are safe, Teri. The tornado destruction is horrific. Thank you for including a link for donations. You made it easy for me this morning to add my contribution. The fair sounds intriguing. Congratulations on being selected!
LikeLiked by 1 person
The pictures have been heartbreaking, Gwen, but I heard yesterday how many volunteers have come forward not only from here, but neighboring states. The community has really come together in the best way. Thanks so much for your contribution!
LikeLike
I’m glad you’re OK, and your house is still standing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Tori. I was so worried about Bond and what might have happened to him if our house had been damaged. He’s afraid of thunder, so I could only assume he spent most of the weekend hiding under the bed, lol.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Poor Bond. Bet he was real glad when you got home.
LikeLiked by 1 person
He sure snuggled close that night, Tori, lol.
LikeLike
Congratulations for Bookfest! I’m glad your house was spared. I have been following what happened on the news, so awful 😦
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Shari! Cleanups are in the works and help is pouring in for those affected.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I had no idea you might have been hit by the tornados, Teri, and am SO relieved to find out you were spared! In all my life, I’ve never seen a worse series of storms, and the aerial photos of the devastation are hard to watch without crying. The loss of life and property is horrendous, and I’m truly glad you weren’t in harm’s way, and had a home & neighborhood to return to.
I’m glad you had a wonderful trip, and as I say, especially glad your home was waiting for you when you got back.
Congratulations on getting into the SOKY Book Fest, and I hope it turns out to be a wonderful event. But mostly, I’m glad you’re safe! 🤗💖🤗
LikeLiked by 1 person
We’re definitely the fortunate ones, Marcia. The pics of the destruction I’ve seen are just heartbreaking, but lots of help is pouring in from all over. The number of volunteers that stepped up is incredible.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sometimes we humans can actually work together and accomplish amazing things. This storm has touched many, many hearts, and I’m proud of those who are stepping up in any way they can. Stay safe, my friend! BIG HUGS! 🤗
LikeLiked by 1 person
Horsefeathers! Teri, I didn’t hear about that storm going through your area. I’m glad to know you weren’t there, and that your home is untouched. Fear of those things was the main reason why I chose my new state. Awful. Great big hug.
LikeLiked by 1 person
We were so lucky it missed our neighborhood, Teagan. The streets affected were just recently reopened, and I saw some of the devastation today. Just unbelievable and so sad.
LikeLike