It’s been almost a month since Hurricane Helene came ashore. Her impact, coupled with what Milton wrought a couple weeks later, devastated my coastal community and severely damaged the beaches near me.

So, it was blissful to finally put my toes in the sand this afternoon, even if it wasn’t in Florida.

I’ve had this trip to Gulf Shores, Alabama for Meeting of the Minds (a Parrothead music festival) planned for a year but after the damage to my home I debated whether I should attend.

In the end, I decided that I might as well come enjoy the music and spend time with phriends. Unless Westley learns some handyman skills, my house repairs will be waiting for me when I get home…