for those who know that my family is from the Beaumont/Port Arthur area:

most of Dad's side of the family is accounted for. some of them are here with us, my other uncle and his family went to Jasper.

the hurricane hit the Beaumont area head on about 2:30am CDST. There was substantial wind damage and over 8" of rain. the concern now is whether the storm will stall over Texas over the next few days dumping even more rain on them. we have not yet heard about specific damage to my family members' homes, but we do know a few emergency workers who stayed behind that will hopefully be able to tell us sometime today.

thank you for all of those who have sent good wishes and prayers for my family. it is deeply, deeply appreciated.