A little over 6 years ago, we pointed to a map and landed on a little dot near Washington, DC. We were delighted as our best friends had moved to the area only one year prior. Together, the four of us were able to explore this beautiful hamlet nestled in the granite rocks where three rivers converge. For years we stayed enchanted by the cobblestones, rock towers, and quirky shoppes of Ellicott City. We fell in love with the creaky hardwoods and tiled fireplaces of our flat in the old hotel on Main Street. We watched from our windows as merchants came and went, fads and routines changed, and the community grew and shrunk like an accordion. The artists of the annual Plen Air festival captured how I choose to remember my time in this slice of Euro vibes amidst modern rush. First Fridays, festivals, and memorials welcomed us home each day. We will miss the commUNITY and its goals. And we know that, since July 29th, we aren't the only ones mourning the town and seeking memories of our time there. That evening, the Tiber River at the head of the Hudson branch spilled over into the town in a roaring flash. Most of these are borrowed photos lowlighting the immediate needs posed by rising and sudden water. Its so interesting that, in the aftermath, so many complained that the water had been shut off, while just days/moments earlier, water was the element causing fear and stealing lives. I was standing on the front porch (where this video lapse was caught on the security cameras), helpless, watching as my enchanting neighborhood became raging rapids. Until the cars started washing past, some containing their shocked drivers, I had no idea the magnitude of this flash flood. Thankfully, the town will rECover, eventually. I'm told that daily the barricades are shrinking as certain portions of the town can be reopened. I am sure that one day we will visit and see the town stronger and more charming than ever.
The beauty in tragedy is humanity. So many rivalries were, ironically, quenched by the steady rains. So many people came out to help and heal the community. Prayers were answered. Comments are closed.
|
Archives
May 2020
Categories |