A Storm's a Brewing

As most of you know by now, the price of oil, which of late had been falling, rose sharply overnight as everyone began their preparations to stock food, supplies, generators, etc., across the south as no-one knows what may come over the next few days.

I observed last night on my way home from work long lines at the pumps as locals three hours away from the coast filled their tanks. I'm sorry, guys. Yes, we should be prepared, but as a Katrina evacuee and ultimate transplant to a new land (Jackson, MS) I remember how all the stations ran out of fuel and those who needed to get home to see if they HAD a home couldn't buy gasoline because of the panic.

Be prepared, but don't go overboard. If you are waiting in line because you are on empty, fine. If you need gas to cut your lawn, that's ok, too. But unless you are leaving town to enjoy a fun-filled Labor Day weekend with family and friends, if you have a half-tank or better, there's no reason to rush out and sit in line at the pumps.

I pray that we never again experience another hurricane like Katrina, who devastated many lives and scattered survivors across the country. The monetary damages were shattering. But those who were most affected have painful memories, and being stranded days from home after a mandatory evacuation is frightening enough without the added stress of being unable to find gas to go home once the coast is clear (so to speak).

Thanks for listening. This is my pet-peeve of the week. Now, if you'll excuse me, I better go buy some gas so I can show houses later today!