Tuesday morning, Aug. 13, there were gray skies above, promising a rainstorm soon. My day was planned thus: a 9 a.m. appointment at the dermatologist to do my regular body check, followed by appointments with clients, which began at 11 and continued through 4. I had enough free time after the doctor check to stop by my daughter Alison’s house on Beach Avenue in Manahawkin for a cup of tea.

The rain was just starting to splatter as I pulled up her driveway.