I've mentioned I'm from Jersey about 10,000 times on this blog. But did I mention that I grew up by the shore? Probably not because I don't like to get too specific about where I live, but I grew up in a town about 15-20 minutes from the beach. Growing up we called it "the beach" and I used to cringe when I went to college and heard people refer to it as "the shore". To me that was the surest sign you were not a local- when you went to "the shore" and not "the beac"h. So anyway, this shore, this beach, this state... it's my home. And now... it's gone. So much of what I know and love is gone.
When I was little my dad and I would go to the beach and sit on a bench, eating Ring Dings and watching the seagulls.
When I was a kid I went to Jenkinson's boardwalk every Thursday night to go on rides and see fireworks.
When I was a teenager we used to go to Manasquan Inlet before school, after school,
When I was bored I drove to the beach. I spent more time on the beach than not in my late teen years.
And then this summer, we didn't go. I wanted to take Landon to Seaside boardwalk but didn't...we said we'd just take him next summer when he was older... and now I regret it. Because it's gone. But we did go to Cape May in September. We introduced Landon to the beach... and I'm glad he got to experience part of it the way it originally was.
But for now I won't be blogging. I don't have power (or food- it's all thrown out) so there will be a small break until I have the ability to blog... but if you have it in you please donate. The Red Cross needs all the help they can get with this tragedy. You never think it'll be you- you never think it'll be your town on TV needing help... but sometimes, it is. And this time, it's us. So if you have it to give, please do.
I'll be back soon!
Well said Steph! Just to clarify you go "down the shore" if you are already there you just go to the beach. You dont go "down the beach." And that bridge the Driscoll i guess its called is called "the shore bridge" and anyone who lives south of it is from south jersey. I hope you get power back soon. Its too bad you had to throw out all your food, i would have enjoyed a blog about cooking everything in the fridge before it goes bad. Thinking of you, keep me posted!
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about the losses of memories from your childhood. The pictures are horrible.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you and your family are safe. Sending positive thoughts your way for the return of power and some rebuilding!
Having lived in/near Joplin, MO all my life, I completely understand what you're going through. Nothing is the same and though recovery will happen, its still a shock every time you drive thru town. We made it through the first weeks/months with our faith and with a lot of help from strangers who just showed up to do whatever needed to be done. There are people here who are working toward doing what they can for NJ/NY so we can pay forward the good that came our way. Hang in there!
ReplyDeleteDuring the Ice Storm of 2008, I had a infant and no power (or water or heat) for 11 days...it wasn't any fun. Luckily power did manage to come back on 2 days before Christmas, but still, it was a miserable time. Hoping life gets back to normal for you sooner than later!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to hear you and your family are safe and sound. I'm originally from Miami and have lived through several hurricanes. It is a horrible experience and I completely understand what you mean about childhood places being destroyed. All you can do is be thankful for what you do have and stick it out until things get back to normal.
ReplyDeleteI used to go to "the shore" every year until I was 18 - seaside heights. Those pictures of the pier are heartbreaking - so many memories just flood back of the roller coaster, log flume etc. we live in southern ny, about 30 mins from the NJ border and lucked out as this area is still devastated from Irene. Stay safe
ReplyDeleteSo happy to hear that your family is safe, although I'm so sorry for the losses of all kinds that you and so many people in your area have suffered. Take care of yourselves, and I'm sending you all the positive thoughs in the world!
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