First, the rains came—slow, steady, and seemingly never-ending.
Dave: “Is there anything you need while I’m out? It looks like Clear Creek’s gonna overflow.”
Judy: “Nah, I’m good.”
Famous last words.
Ten inches of rain fell over the next two days, softening the earth and setting the stage for the worst natural disaster in North Carolina history. Wind (like The Wizard of Oz)—with gusts up to 80 mph, uprooted trees, toppled power lines, created landslides, and left behind a wide swath of destruction, mud, and debris.
Clear Creek aftermath.
Our new home, nestled on a hill with four others escaped unscathed. The biggest challenge was the lack of power and communication. We banded together with our new neighbors, helping each other navigate generators, water, and phone charging. The first few days of isolation were unnerving—reaching family or services was difficult. Multiple landslides and washed-out bridges made travel difficult.
By day three, sporadic satellite cell phone service enabled us to contact family and news sources. Groceries were scarce, as most stores shut down or flooded. Cash only was the rule of thumb.
The line to get into Sam’s Club - one of the few stores that had a generator.
Laundry day at the Johnsruds.
Thankfully, the weather was temperate. Our gas stovetop kept us in business. We used what we had on hand—fresh tomatoes from the garden, apples, and various dry goods that had made the trip from Phoenix. Our lives became much more straightforward, with the focus on recovery efforts and helping the many who had lost everything.
Marinara from the garden.
Almost eight months have passed since Helene. The clean-up efforts have been remarkable. Restaurants and breweries have reopened, and entire communities are in the process of rebuilding. There is so much to see and do here. Dave and I have already hit a few trails in the North Carolina Arboretum, Pisgah National Forest, and Dupont State Forest. The Blue Ridge Parkway National Park Service has restored access to over 310 miles, so there is plenty to do and see.
Judy strolling he orchard with grandbaby, Calixta.
Our first spring in North Carolina has been glorious!