Three a.m. is normally a solitary time, especially early on a Sunday morning. But this time, as I sat hunched over this computer, waiting and watching for Irene to come and go, lots of locals were right there with me.

I give enormous thanks to Patcher Scott Egelberg, who holds the record for most photos and least sleep during a natural disaster. There is not a story he won't pursue! Kyle Trama captured images of the aftermath that showed me and you exactly what we were dealing with, and I'm grateful for his keen eye. Carolyn Maynard-Parisi kept me updated and in the know, which is invaluable. And my Patch colleagues who live in town, especially Liz Mitchell and Laura Griffin, are also on the all-star list. Mary Mann, my Maplewood counterpart, is good at a party, great in a crisis -- what more can a neighbor ask?

What also helped at 3 a.m. was realizing how many readers were awake and eager to stay connected, whether via Twitter, email or Facebook. Thanks to Hank Zona for keeping it light and fun. Elissa Malespina keeps it funny, Nancy Janow sees the silver lining, and lots of others shared photos, observations and the opportunity to vent our true feelings about Irene. (Don't worry: I deleted those emails!)

Thank you, readers, for being part of the conversation, whether in the best of circumstances or those more challenging days. You remind me what a privilege it is to know this community well, even in the middle of a dark and stormy night.

Take care,

Marcia