April 1, 2014, 7:59 p.m., C.D.T.~

Dear Journal~

Rachel Smith here.  I am sitting here, watching my husband, Kendall, pack: he is leaving for Oklahoma, and possibly even Texas, Kansas, or Arkansas, to go chasing.  He has taken some needed time from work in order to do this (with pay).

I am currently debating on whether I should accompany him or not.  I'd like to (as I used to chase storms myself, or did before I was struck by lightning), but I do'nt think I could handle sitting in a van, on my bum, for that long period of time: for one thing, ever since I became paralyzed, I am prone to skin breakdown (bedsores), and that would not be good at all, as if I were to develop one, I'd more than likely end up back in the hospital.  So I might as well stay home and pray that Kendall stays safe and that the "nasties" don't come wandering in my general direction.

And besides, I have our son, Rheese, to take care of, so I highly doubt that I'll join Kendall on the road.  I love storms, don't get me wrong, but even after being hit by lightning, I know to stay safe and not endanger myself (or my family) because I just can't run or get to a shelter as quickly as most people.  But we DO have a safe room, so if it threatens to storm, I'll get Rheese and we'll both head to the safe room where we will stay until the all-clear is given.

And pray that our house stays intact.  I just thank God we have that safe room; it's been a real godsend.

I do love watching the clouds roiling in the skies and seeing the strcuture and beauty of a supercell, not to mention, feel the wind ruffling through my (very short) hair, and smelling the impending rain, and the smell of electricity and ozone.  It is always exciting to go on a chase, especially when you see God's power and creation right in front of your very eyes.

Well, Kendall has just said goodbye and is now in his truck; he'll be leaving very shortly.  I already miss him ...I just pray Kendall stays safe and has a safe journey, wherever it may take him ...

Well, Rheese just got home from playing outside; I will tell him that his daddy has gone chasing and will probably be gone for several days and then fix supper for the two of us.  Rheese won't like that, but I'll just have to reassure him that I'm still here and will take care of him and keep him safe 'til Daddy gets back.  Until the next time, this is Rachel Diann Smith saying so long; take care and God bless!

~Love, your friend in Tennessee, Rachel.  :)