The Hurricane Party Struck Out, But Guthrie Hit A Home Run Ruthie here: Praise the Lord, Irene cut Florida a break and stayed 200 miles off shore. We were nailed by a few rain bands and winds of 30-40 mph, which is hardly more than our typical thunderstorm. So, rather than eat our prodigious stock of hurricane provisions, we went to Merck’s Bar and Grill, a favorite locals’ hangout in New Smyrna Beach. Known for good sandwiches, an extensive selection of beer, and a TV with trivia games at each table, it was the perfect place to ride out our barely existent storm. Besides, Craig had an early morning class to teach at Deland University, so a late night and Penny Sue style party was out of the question. Rich also had a private investigation lecture to attend the next day, thus Merk’s seemed the perfect solution. Leigh and I also believed Guthrie would benefit from getting out of our condo and moaning about his breakup with Timothy.
Well, the fates were with us. There was minimal beach erosion (a railroad vine was lost, but a turtle nest survived), and Guthrie met a new friend while he and Rich played pool. When we finally left at about 9 p.m. I noticed Guthrie exchanging phone numbers with his new buddy. Hallelujah! We all loved Guthrie, except maybe Penny Sue whose feelings were in the tolerance range, but his hangdog moping was getting on everyone’s nerves. Perhaps a new relationship would deliver us all from his funk!
Oh, in case you want to see the beach erosion, compare the before and after pictures below. Love and light, especially to our Northern neighbors on the coast who are now in Irene’s path. —Ruthie
