Already the winds are picking up, and tiny flakes swirl among the tree trunks and roofs. The sky is low and grim; the streets are empty; the neighbors' cars are hunkered in their driveways.

Tom did go to work this morning, but the shop isn't too far away, and he expects to be home early. I hope so. Portland is under a blizzard warning, with 50 mph gusts and a foot of snow in the forecast.

If we don't lose power, we'll be eating chicken noodle soup tonight. I roasted a chicken yesterday, and my plan is to make fresh broth with the leftovers this afternoon. If we do lose power, then we'll have a chicken and rice salad.

Thank goodness for a woodstove and plenty of firewood; for running water [in the bathroom]; for plenty of provisions and a warm cat.