We had to break out the emergency fund. Yesterday’s storm was impressive: wind, rain, and apparently a strong opinion about where utility pipes belong. The pipe that holds our service line was ripped off the house and was lying on the ground looking very defeated. Miraculously, the power was still on, because why have reality make sense?

Step one: call the electrician. They magically had an opening today (for a price that didn’t make us faint), gave a reasonable quote, and showed up like heroes with tools. They repaired the pipe, but discovered the service wire from the pole was now too short to reattach. Plot twist: last year we installed a generator “just in case,” and it decided today was its moment to shine. We’re running on generator comfort while the power company brings in a new service line when they’re available.

We’re fortunate, many neighbors weren’t so lucky. Last count I heard was about 35,000 homes without power. So how did we avoid being another frozen casserole story?

Two things saved us… First, our emergency fund was there and did exactly what it’s supposed to. It paid for urgent repairs without us having to choose between groceries and safety. It was definitely a true emergency. Second, we had a generator install “just in case” last year, and today it is earning its keep and our gratitude (and maybe a spot in the family will).

Moral of the story:

Plan for the worst, hope for the best, and maybe tuck a generator and an emergency fund into your life like an insurance policy that also makes coffee. You probably won’t need them… until the day you do.