2008 Flood

I have been wanting to post about the catastrophic flooding Iowa has experienced (and is still dealing with) but I can't seem to find the words to explain the sorrow and loss families and businesses here are experiencing.

We thankfully live far enough away that we were not affected by the rising river water. Our yard was flooded by the rains but with all of the devastation elsewhere, we have no complaints.

While area rivers crested higher than ever seen before, families have lost so much in the fast moving currents rushing through their homes. Businesses in downtown Cedar Rapids have lost so much as well. I don't know when our community will recover.

My heart goes out to all who have been affected in any way.

Here are some photos from http://www.gazetteonline.com/:

Above is a photo of the public library on the upper right and the Science Station on the lower left, two places we cherish and have spent many hours at.

Debris collecting on one of the downtown bridges' pedestrian hand rails.

City Hall

Two firefighters making their way under interstate 380 on 2nd Ave.

Some 'after' pictures:

Above is the inside of a downtown business - what is left of it.

Please send your thoughts and prayers to the victims of this flood.