Oooh..... Big Stuff Over Here!!

I had today off so I took my time getting ready this morning, then at about 10am I left and headed to the Harley Davidson dealer. I wanted a new pair of riding boots, but they didn't have the ones I want, so I ended up with a new jacket which I SO didn't need. But it's nice.

Then I went out for lunch with my friend Ro to a cool diner in Newport. We spent hours yacking and laughing. She showed me all her kids' houses (all beautiful homes) and then finally she brought me back to my car.

While I was in Newport, and with nothing better to do, I decided to hit the casino. Lo & Behold, I won money. A good amount of money even. 27 Ben Franklins to be exact. Not bad for an hour of entertainment.

Anyway, while I was gambling, my cell phone rang. Candace, the girl who allegedly cleans my house was calling. She says, "SYBIL!!! You're not going to believe it! The house across the street from yours is burning to the ground!"

I'm like..... "Whaaaaaaaaaaat??? Is my house in danger??? Uh, I mean, are my neighbors alright?"

She says, "Nobody's home over there. The wind is blowing the flames away from your house, but you should really get home if you can."

So, I cashed out and ran to my car. A half hour later, as I tried to pull onto my street... (forget about it! I had to park two streets away) I came walking up to my house and there was my neighbor standing there helplessly, watching her house totally engulfed in flames. What a horrifying sight. I felt for her.

The place is a total TOTAL loss. The only thing left to do is raze it and start over. I got goosebumps on top of goosebumps thinking that there but for the grace of God stood I.

I offered her something to drink, a place to stay, clothes to wear... she was so completely in shock, she just kept shaking her head. Pretty soon her husband ran up. I guess he had to park two streets away too. And that was it. They stood there sobbing in each other's arms.

And now my house stinks to high heaven of smoke and fire and fire extinguisher. But I am NOT complaining. Oh NO... Good Lord, no. I'll put up with the stink.

And thank you Lord for not picking my house to burn down, Amen.