I do feel very lucky. And I have been milking the story. After I posted it on my newspaper blog, the editor called me so he could get some quotes for the storm story he was writing.

One person said "You need a little dog in your basket now." I know, right? I've already got the upright posture on my bike, and now the tornado, I only need a green face, warty nose, and a little dog.

It was good experience because if I'm ever in those conditions again I'll know to stop and do something.