Hurricane Irene is coming

Waves break on the beach at Buxton, NC on Friday, August 26, 2011 as Hurricane Irene approaches the Outer Banks. (Steve Early | The Virginian-Pilot)

I was evacuated out of my city on the Southeastern coast of Virginia. Actually I left before the mandatory evacuation was even called....and I'm so glad I did! Thanks to encouragement of my boyfriend and parents. I kind of wanted to stay to ride out the storm and experience the rush, but it's probably more smart to leave. The storm surge is expected to be up to 9 feet, and living in a flood zone, it just didn't make sense for us to stay.

Those who are riding out the storm out there, stay safe and Good luck!