Tie Me Up Tuesday ~ Tie Everything Down

Living along the coast in the US during the months from June until November residents are ever watchful of the storms brewing in the waters.

As the hurricane watches and warnings are announced, the Gulf Coast prepares for the arrival of Isaac. Although areas might not be in the direct path of a hurricane, the effects are often far reaching. The eastern side of the storm is usually the worst as the rainbands and winds wrap around the center, causing severe thunderstorms, tornados, and flooding.

If one is in the direct path of a hurricane (depending on its strength), they should seek shelter or evacuate.

When preparing for a hurricane, one must have enough supplies to last three to four days in case of power outages. Supplies should include nonperishable foods, water for drinking, sponge baths, and for flushing toilets. One should also have batteries, portable radio, flashlights, medicines, and first aid kits.

Preparations should also be made for your property and pets. Secure garbage cans, potted plants, lawn equipment, and anything that can become airborne in strong winds.

For all those in the vicinity of Isaac’s path, Godspeed.

Hump Day ~ Love Is In The Air

It’s that time a year again, when the air is filled with love. Twice a year, late spring and late summer, in the Southern Gulf Coast and southeastern United States, hundreds of thousands of Lovebugs take flight.

The Lovebug is a small flying insect that takes to the air for four to five weeks. In this time mating begins almost immediately. The Lovebug can remain coupled for several days and even in flight. Neither adult males nor females live longer than a few days.

So if you are driving through the Gulf Coast during these times of the year and you see a large swarm of slow moving little black bugs, it is the migration of the Lovebug.

A helpful tip is to use dryer sheets to remove dead bugs off your vehicle.