Wind

broke suddenly into many small pieces

My aunt’s favorite plate shattered when I accidentally knocked it off the table.

to give up control to someone or something else

Whenever we pass my dog’s favorite tree, I just surrender her leash and let her sniff around. 

an agreement in which a person makes regular payments to a company that promises to pay if something is damaged, lost, or stolen

Thankfully, my dad’s car insurance helped him get a new door after the crash.

Annie: At least that last part is true. 

(BRRRRRRIING!)

Annie: Daddy?

Annie’s Dad: Hey, Annie! I don’t have much time to talk. It’s about Hurricane Nate. The news says it could be a big storm. 
Maybe you and Mom should leave for a few days. I love you, Annie! I’ll be home before you know it.

Annie: I love you too . . .

Narrator: But Annie and her mother had already decided to stay. By the time her mother comes home from work that night, the wind is howling.

Bob Jenson, the neighbor: There’s a big storm coming. Do you need any help?

Annie’s Mom: I think we have everything we need. Thanks for asking!

Bob Jenson, the neighbor: You’re welcome to ride it out at our house if you want . . .

Annie’s Mom: We’re fine, but we appreciate your offer!

Narrator: That night, Annie and Mom make tacos.

Narrator: The storm gets stronger and stronger.

(POP)

Annie’s Mom: The power is out!

Annie: So are the phones . . .

Annie: I guess we’re on our own.

(CRAASH)

Annie: What was that? 

Annie’s Mom: Something slammed into the roof?!

Annie: Should we go see what it was?

Annie’s Mom: I’m afraid to look.

(CRASH)

Annie: That came from the kitchen!

Annie’s Mom: Watch out for glass on the floor . . .

Annie: The wind shattered the window!

Narrator: They grab a few supplies—
—and surrender the kitchen to the hurricane.

Annie: I wish Daddy were here.

Annie’s Mom: Me too.

Narrator: The next morning . . .

Annie’s Mom: The wind died down.

Annie: Finally!

Annie: Our street looks like a giant lawn mower ran over it!

Bob Jenson, the neighbor: Hey there!

Annie’s Mom: Oh no . . .

Bob Jenson, the neighbor: I was worried about you two. I’m glad you’re OK.
I’m Bob Jenson, your neighbor. 
We’ll take pictures of the house so your insurance will pay for repairs.
Your house has the worst damage, so we’ll start there. Some of us will go get drinking water and cook for the cleanup crew.

Annie’s Mom: We do all of this together?

Bob Jenson, the neighbor: Yes. Easier that way. More fun too.

Bob Jenson, the neighbor: We’ll get the palm tree out, put a tarp on your roof, and sweep up the broken glass. 
We’ll make it safe for you and your daughter to stay in your house.

Annie’s Mom: Please come inside. And thank you.

Narrator: A few months later, Annie can finally write her father a happy letter——and mean it.

Annie (writing): Daddy, Hurricane Nate was bad, but there were clear skies on the other side of it. 
We have a brand-new roof. Wait until you see it! When you come home, we’re going to have another block party.
The neighbors are as proud of you as we are. They can’t wait to meet you.

Love, Annie