I usually wander around for a few minutes, collecting candles, matches etc. then settle in with a good book. I LOVE how quiet it gets. No noise from the refrigerator, freezer, etc. Totally quiet! I used to love it in the office when the power went out (except all the serge protectors beeped)! I have surge protectors here at the house too, but the beep for only a couple of minutes.

I can usually take a shower etc. within a few hours. Then the water turns ice cold. I do have water though. People with wells and electric pumps are out of luck in that area. The phone well, I usually call a friend to see if it is a town problem or local (on my street).

I once lived in my house for a week without electricity or heat! I borrowed a kerrocene (sp) portable heater and ate sandwiches and drank beer. I began to feel like an ice fishing person.

I like power outages.