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Thank you Julie. My sister and their family live in Gerton, NC. They have a long road ahead. Thank you for this poem and prompt. I may share it with her.

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Oh Julie, I know right where that is. I just caught up on your writing a little. Did she have her baby? Sending prayers for peace and hope for health and safety.

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Thank you so much Julie. Yes, my sister had her baby, sweet Alice. xox What a blessing she was able to stay with my sister for a bit and now they are back to Gerton, NC. Praying they can get some help with their house. How are you all? Thank you again for your posts. I'm catching up and really need both of these today.

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Thank you for this as I still sit in NC while trying to not worry too much about friends and my brother’s family in Florida. Your words and work are timely and appreciated even as they make me feel all the feels.

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Sending love and peace to you and yours, Jenny.

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This Mark Nepo poem has always been a favorite and go to for me...resonates in so many ways, and certainly as you have shared here - rings true right now. I share your split of worry between Florida and Western Carolina. Woke up this morning thinking of how much this reminds me of anticipatory grief. The waiting and the prep that never seems certain and certainly out of our control... Thanks, Julie

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Yes, Betsy. You are so right about anticipatory grief. Sending love and prayers your way as you hold both NC and FL in your heart too.

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Oct 9Liked by Julie Hester

David LaMotte was with us in Austin during Helene’s wrecking-time and we heard updates via his family. I thought of you and I’m glad you’re doing what you’re doing now, Julie, and grateful for the souls like you who are present and serving with the great gifts God has given you. I’m so impressed that you’re concurrently taking care of us in Writing in Company. Continuing to hold all of you in the Helene-affected area in my heart, and certainly praying for Florida and what’s coming. Mother Earth is expressing her displeasure at our mistreatment of her, and who can blame her.

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Thanks SarahLee. I was following David's posts too, and felt for him being away, but glad he was with your group.

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this is so poignant and right... it is just right. Thank you, Julie

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