A worker aids in the cleanup and restoration of power after last week’s storms ripped through the area. (Enterprise photo — Griffin Kelly)

A few years ago, the frost line went so deep that water pipes in homes across the Adirondacks were freezing in the middle of winter. Thankfully my house was without water for only a few days. As soon as our water came back on, we had neighbors showering at our house and taking buckets of water that I’d leave in our entry. There were people without water for more than a month.

I went without water for a few days and I felt inept and helpless. I was ready to pack it all in and head to a hotel. After our water came on, I focused on my community, offering help where we could. The issues were unusual and driven by inconsistent mid-winter thaws followed by below zero temperatures. I wasn’t surprised by my community’s generosity. Strangers and friends alike were willing to help out without anyone requesting it.

This weekend, the electric went out. High winds and abundant rain lead to downed trees and electrical wire as well as flash floods and power outages. The gale-force winds scattered the mild Halloween weather and brought in freezing temperatures.

The difference between the winter water issue and this electric one is its ability to be solved. The weather is still relatively mild so our pipes are not in danger of freezing. The electric company brought in hundreds of line crew to work in weather that was dangerous. Wind and cold persisted throughout the weekend. Transmitters had blown and trees dangled from wires.

Every time I pass by a worker, I make sure to thank them. I know it’s their job, but I’m still grateful that it is their job. It is not a job that I want to do. I’m glad that someone was able to leave their own house to climb an electrical pole or cut down a tree so that I can eventually heat my house. I could have done without the emergency run-through, but we did find out our generator works and that filling oil lamps instead of using them as paperweights is more effective. Candles, board games, and generous neighbors make any inconvenience pass more quickly.

Real winter is around the corner. This recent storm is most likely the first one of the winter. I’m taking this as an opportunity to make sure I’m ready for the next one. I am thankful to the men and women willing to brave the elements so that I can have my modern conveniences. Thank you to everyone who is still working hard to restore power to all the homes in the area. Your hard work does not go unnoticed. We appreciate all that you do.

.Diane Chase is the author of the “Adirondack Family Activities” guidebook series, “Adirondack Family Time: Your Four-Season Guide to Over 300 Activities.” For more family-friendly activities go to www.adirondackfamilytime.com.