My husband and I have never left for a storm, and thought we never would. As Katrina approached and became stronger, we decided that it would be best for us to leave considering we have two small children. As I woke up Saturday morning and viewed the news, I immediately began to search for hotel rooms. I was able to book two rooms in Little Rock so we packed up and headed on our journey. Airline highway West was bumper to bumper and it took us 2 hours to get through LaPlace from St. Rose(usually a twenty minute drive), but once past there, we entered the contra flow and it was smooth sailing the rest of the way. The people of Maumelle Arkansas were extremely generous and hospitable. We had constant contact with my brother in law who rode out the storm in St. Charles parish. He was afraid but hopeful that he would be alright. Because my husband is a volunteer fire man, we learned that we received elecrticity by Wednesday and were able to return home Thursday. Upon arrival there was minimal damage. Fences and trees were down, and roofs were damaged, but overall nothing to complain about. This time Katrina had spared the city of St. Rose, but the devistation to our east was indescribable. Water stayed for days and weeks while live in my parish resumed. The traffic is much greater than pre-Katrina, but I will take it because I feel very lucky not to be one of the displaced commuters. Good luck to everyone and stay strong!! Nicole