Cover Image courtesy of Courtney Pedroza at The Tennessean.

Good morning to my fellow book lovers and writers!

I decided to hold off on posting my new blog post this week. This morning, tornadoes went through Nashville and left devastation in their wake. Those in East Nashville, Germantown, and West Nashville are without power. In some cases, their homes as well.

I have lived in Nashville for almost three years and love this city as much as my hometown of Chattanooga. When I learned of the devastation’s extent this morning, it was like a punch to the gut. There is a sadness throughout the city as we start to rebuild the pieces of damaged areas. I am very lucky that I live in a place that missed the path of the tornado, but so many weren’t.

There’s one important thing I’ve learned about my twenty-something years as a Tennesseean. We are resilient. There were at least 215 amazing first-responders working nonstop almost immediately. The people living here are already beginning the long rebuilding process. Neighbors are helping neighbors in the true Volunteer spirit. There have been shelters set up throughout the city for those who have lost their homes.

I know that in the days and weeks to come it will be a hard road. But I have faith in the hardworking determination of my fellow residents. We will rebuild and will be stronger than ever. That’s the Tennessee way.
Thank you for any thoughts or prayers you have sent to the city of Nashville during this hard time. If you feel led to help the rebuilding process, I have included some links below. Thank you, friends, for reading and I hope you stay safe.

Links to help (courtesy of the Tenneessean):

Hands On Nashville for resources: https://www.hon.org/

Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee Emergency Response Fund: https://www.cfmt.org/story/middle-tennessee-emergency-response-fund/

United Way- https://www.unitedwaynashville.org/

The Red Cross is also accepting blood donations. If you live in the area, please check for your location to donate.

If you would like to donate items other than clothing, please send them to the Community Resource Center.