We were without power for about 6 hours, but everything seems fine now. We did try to drive around a bit once the rain and wind abated, but huge trees were down on the Nelson/Harrisville road, so we headed back home, hoping no more would decide to land on our heads! The wind is still gusty but the air has changed, and it's clear that Irene has moved on.

Our dear friends in Vermont, however (Newfane) , as well as those on the Deerfield River in western Mass (Shelburne Falls ), are not so lucky. My heart is with them.