Derecho

That's what the weatherman calls it. I call it Wizard of Oz on steroids. But whatever it was, Bronwen and I didn't know it was happening. We were just partying it up, jamming the night away at an LDS Singles Dance. 

It was the 12th "Are you OK?" text message that tipped me off. Hundreds of downed trees and dark neighborhoods later, we finally got back to our powerless house, whereupon I realized I'm still not prepared for an emergency. But I did find my matches and candles!! I propose the following when you have a friend in town and the power goes out:

Take pictures of storm damage

Poor Aunt Kay's car-don't worry, all better now

One of the reasons it took us 3 tries to get into our neighborhood

Attempt to go to the cancelled Folk Life Festival on the National Mall (darn derecho)

Instead, party it up at museums ALL DAY!

Sackler Gallery

Smithsonian

African Art Museum

Hirshhorn

Find as many interactive exhibits as possible, including the world famous masterpiece "Nap Time." K, so that's what I would name it, beds and all, in the MUSEUM. That's how to make your artwork popular!

Go to the most fabulous 2nd hand book and clothing stores in the land.

Bathroom doubled as the languages section

"What if you want the book at the bottom of the pile?"

It took a while to find. We were happy.

Go to the historic Busboys & Poets. Go see BRAVE afterwards. Have everything work out wonderfully time wise and come home to find the power restored!

Vow to be prepared for an emergency next time...hmm, we'll see.