Dateline has been one of my favourite shows since I was a teen.

Oh, how I love a good story. I adore the narration; the intricate adventures unfolding whereby we hear mysteries from Bible Belt America that become solvable in 48 minutes or less.

There is no greater joy than watching these shows and after 90 seconds yelling

“THE HUSBAND DID IT!!!” at the top of my lungs at the tv.

The good thing about cable; it cannot talk back to you. Yet.

If it did; it might yell back;

“IT’S ACTUALLY THIS RANDOM GUY WE’RE GONNA INTRODUCE WITHIN THE LAST 5 MINUTES, YOU MORON!!”

I make note that my tv has behavioural issues.

I digress.

Good storytelling has always been my passion.

While Dateline isn’t the only reason, I’m sure it’s one of the reasons I became a Journalism student. I love stories, truth and sharing my point of view.

Having a 3 year diploma definitely enhanced my communications skill set and has afforded professional credentialing, which assists with the high caliber you’ve witnessed with this blog.

Please read the rest of this post in your best Keith Morrison voice;

**Clears Throat**

Our story begins in the former industrial juggernaut town of Hamilton, Ontario.

Hamilton, best known as the pee break between Toronto and Niagara Falls, houses many things; including Tim Horton’s coffee shops, dollar stores, and cash loan centres.

It’s a proud city where citizens work hard, play hard and enjoy life.

Speaking of life, life was about to change.

On Sunday December 1st, at approximately 11:45am, the lives of approximate 2535 residents became dark.

A lot darker.

These residents lost power.

An ice storm swept through the area, unapologetically taking out anything needing a plug in its path.

One resident in particular lost power for 5 hours and 13 minutes.

The majority of activities during this timeframe remain unclear.

Witnesses say this resident silently rocked herself to sleep; dreaming of cable, wifi and other splendours that only power can provide.

This woman experienced fear, sadness and neglect.

Once the power resumed, the ice storm showed its “ugly beautiful.”

If you can look past the destructive nature, therein lies some beautiful things.

These photos were taken immediately after power resumed:

The storm created havoc on the roadways, but created a beauty with its stillness.

The first day after the storm was a challenge for all involved.

Approximately 48 hours after the menacing winter ice storm had begun; it created a sense of calm.

Our victim captured these photos to showcase said calm on her way to work:

Our victim survived what could have been an Ice Storm tragedy.

She wanted to use her experience to remind others to stop and appreciate the calm.

Know that even when the darkest of situations seems bleak; there is light after.

And always have extra batteries.

😊