Have a Safe and Merry Christmas [VIDEO]

How are you faring Ice Storm 2013? Out of power? Water? Heat? Yep, us too. But, you know, we're Mainers. We'll make the best of it and find our way through. And think of the stories we'll tell our relatives of this Christmas!

I took this video this morning, as Jim and I were preparing to head into town for coffee, food, and warmth. We lost power between 8 and 8:30 Monday night and it was fifty degrees in our house by morning. No water. We'll be staying with relatives until the power comes back on.

This experience made me think of a Christmas many, many years ago when I was a teenager. My family had gone to Boston just before Christmas for a quick vacation. We were due to return to Maine on Christmas Eve. But a huge nor'easter blew in and there was so much snow, we were stuffing towels under the hotel room door to keep it out!

My father looked at us and tried to let us down gently. We might not make it home in time for Christmas. But you know? None of us cared. We were having fun! And the presents would be there when we got home. As it turns out, we did make it home due to the work of some very dedicated city and state workers.

As for this Christmas, it is what it is. There's nothing we can do other than get make the best of it. Just remember...don't be a hero. If your home doesn't have heat, get to a warming center or stay with friends or family with power. Damage to your house can be repaired easier than damage to your health. We have a list of warming centers here. If you don't see one near you, contact your local police or fire department to inquire about the closest location.

And be sure to say good things about all the people working around the clock to keep us safe! We owe a big thank you to the utility crews, road crews, plow drivers, sanders, and first responders who are working in this, at the expense of their own family Christmas.

Merry Christmas to your family from ours. Be safe!