Wow John. Welcome back too. I'm sure I don't have to tell you but that's a loooooong time to be without power. Glad all is well.

Tylenol is kicking in and helping me shake off those cobwebs. Though I plan on doing a little drinking today, it's going to be beer and more in moderation than last night

. Today is grey and breezy here. Winds haven't really started picking up yet (sustained 8-10, gusting to 20ish), but I know they will. The first major rainband (of the rainshield) is nearing the entire northern Gulf, but it is still a few hours offshore in most places. To guarantee a piece of that, I'm going to need Ivan to make it a few tenths farther west. Otherwise, we'll just see a few minor bands rotating out (see setup on New Orleans Long Range radar

I'm going to grab a couple more of hours sleep (if possible!!!!!) so I can be ready to face whatever awaits beginning this afternoon. I promise to take pictures of the neighborhood and post them where possible. Please everyone who remains in the path of the storm (from New Orleans to Tallahassee), get some digital photos to post when you are able to get back on line (hopefully sooner than John C).

Steve