So remember when I said we'd be without power for about 24 hours? We're over 40 hours without power, and I wouldn't be surprised if it took until the end of the week to get everything up and running again. I've heard rumor that the university's generators only last for 3 days or so, so if they run out, we won't be able to work, charge our phones, etc. I'll need to stop using my department's fridge for our four-pack of Italian sausage.
It's just a waiting game for us, and we're lucky that we don't personally need power for anything medical (monitoring devices, refrigerating medicine). The university powers academic buildings because there is scientific equipment that needs to maintain power, or so I've been told. Makes me feel guilty for using that electricity to blog.
Local restaurants are open, as is our main grocery store, but our stove is electric, so I can't cook. We ran out for candles last night, and half the world was dark--big shopping centers completely empty. The only candles we found cost and arm and a leg, and were Christmasy. I avoided the glittery ones, opting for self-contained tri-color three-pack containing a "Berry Merry Christmas" scent. Heaven help us all.
I'm investing in a set of emergency beeswax candles when this is over. The upshot of the power-less-ness is that candle-powered nights are really quite lovely, and I wouldn't mind having them more often (though preferable not all in a row). Last night, I spent a while turning old clothes into rags by candlelight, which was very soothing. Reading would be a strain, though.
Again, electricity is the only real limitation; it impacts light, refrigeration, computer and internet access. I'm itching to get it back at home, but trying to enjoy the experience.
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