I think our point of reference has changed. For years, \”the hurricane\” meant Katrina; but now, it means Ida.

Ida didn\’t exact anywhere near the death toll that Katrina did; and for Ida the levees held. But all the same, Ida did plenty of damage.

I am now planning my trip back home; and I\’m glad that TS Nicholas veered away from SE Louisiana. Even so, New Orleans is under flash flood watch for several days; and I think I better wait a few days to travel.

For a while now, another point of reference has changed. My turnaround spot for my weekly long ride must be closer to home until I\’m back into proper condition. Riding an exercise bike

Schwinn 30 Recumbent Bike

is keeping my leg muscles halfway toned; but as I can\’t say too often, it\’s nothing like riding a real bicycle! I\’m sure it would be unwise to try to do a 50-mile ride the day after I get back home!

I\’ll have plenty to do besides riding and blogging in order to settle back in. I must clean out the fridge; and my garbage can will be in a terrible state. It wasn\’t empty when I left ahead of Ida; and by now it certainly reeks to high heaven.

A trip to the supermarket is a must. I left behind celery; part of a head of cabbage; carrots; and more. The stuff that I had cooked and frozen will have to go; as will any kind of salad dressing. Maybe vinegars and soy sauce are OK to keep.

I bought garbage bags and rubber gloves to bring back with me; and maybe, just maybe, I\’ll buy some huckleberry candy!