The reason I chose this particular location, was because I studied the possible wind patterns. The reason I chose to have no large growing trees near my little home is also because I have seen what that can do to a home and human lives. Yes, the shade is very nice, especially in hot climates it can make a huge difference I know. But here, it’s not worth the risk. Small trees, fruiting and ornamental that would do very little if any damage to a structure is OK in my humble opinion but in fire areas it’s best to leave a bit of space between buildings and trees or brush.
I did not lose power with this storm although there was a lot of heavy flickering during the worst of it. Neighbors lost power and a lot of people in town did as well. Lines and trees were in the roads and there was a small landslide as well on the highway. Some people farther north lost lives where the wind was worse, by falling trees on their homes and vehicles.
I imagine things would have been much much worse had the storm moved closer to land instead of staying out 300 miles off shore.
Minimal damage to the property here. The main house has water in the basement but I’m told that isn’t unusual. The roofing over the apiary has been blown apart. It wasn’t very secure anyway, I don’t think. Lots of small tree branches in the woods everywhere. I’ll have to tidy up the paths. One alder came down in the alder grove. Perfect for mushroom logs if I could get to it but I don’t think I honestly have the energy to attempt that. I haven’t slept well and still recovering from working the 48 hour shift last weekend. My job isn’t terribly difficult but it is definitely draining. Although that shift allowed me to make a sizable payment on the camper and to get my water filter I really needed and better lighting for inside so it’s not so constantly dark.
Out at sea, it really was an impressive storm. I know people online (The climate deniers) are poo-pooing it as hype and that it was just “normal PNW November weather” but it really wasn’t. It was a monster. There has never been one of that category in that section of he Pacific in recorded history. It broke records. If it had moved a few more miles towards land there would be no question that it was a monster. We lucked out. Don’t think it can’t happen. Even in the relatively safe area I have chosen. There are no “safe areas” any more. So it pays to be prepared even if a storm ‘fizzles’ all though the families of the ones who died in this storm likely don’t think it was a nothing storm.
I am tempted to head to the beach to see if anything cool washed ashore and perhaps collect some kelp for the garden (and chickens LOVE to eat it) but I’m guessing the waves are still going to be rough, I’m trying not to spend too much on gas, and I really am not feeling much energy. I think I’ll spend my day doing laundry and going through more of my seeds. I’d like to get it all down to one seed storage container so I can make a bit more room in here. Every little bit counts, in a tiny dwelling. My sudden move to tiny living was abrupt and unexpected and it’s been a huge learning curve as I adjust and learn what I can really live without and what I really do want to keep around or need. Perhaps I will do a post on the things I really think are needed or make my life easier and are worth the space soon.
I am considering finding a wire shelving unit (on wheels) if I can find one less then 14″ deep for the wall near my door between the bed and wall. And perhaps a shower curtain rod for the other side of the bed where I can hang herbs and plants to dry when it’s too damp outside. I don’t like having thing on the floor too much but I do, because of lack of storage. These are just a few ideas I’ve been considering.
Climate Wary Homesteader 