I’ve had enough of earthquakes, thank you very much! An aftershock last night again meant that I couldn’t get back to sleep, and I’m tired! I’d hoped to go in to the office, but a strong aftershock this morning put paid to that. Once again I’m spending the day glued to my phone and computer, matching volunteers with tasks that need to be done. Another staff member is doing the same thing in her home.
There are some wonderful volunteers out there! Several men have spent all day demolishing chimneys and ensuring roofs are secure. We are swamped with offers of help, including people from the North Island ready to come down at a moment’s notice, or wanting to fill a container with goods and send that down. I just wish more people would ask for help, because there are so many willing to give it.
Stephen’s busy preparing a three course dinner for four, and we’re relieved this morning’s power cut was short-lived. Our friends from Auckland went on the Transalpine this morning – I don’t know whether it was by train or bus, and hope the aftershock hasn’t made their trip more memorable than they’d want.
I find myself not quite “with it” at times. This morning I made a cup of tea, carefully poured a few drops of cold boiled water in to cool it, then (as is my usual custom) added cold water from the tap. I then thought “too bad” and drank it anyway. If I die of gastroenteritis, my epitaph can be “mentalpause done her in!”
Yesterday 154 people read my blog, not counting those who saw it on Facebook. This is my highest number ever, and I’ve been blogging for four and a half years. Thanks to all those who’ve left comments. Your support is much appreciated. In fact, it’s vital.
“I like to cool my cup of tea
and hope I don’t get dysentery.”
Ruth's Reflections 
Hello!
Good to see that you are able to contribute so much to the clean-up effort! What was the 7 storey building that has to be demolished? I guess there must be a fair number of listed buildings that are affected, since it hit the central city.
Don’t risk the dysentery – I had that after a trip to Islamabad, and it was by a long way the sickest I have ever been. If it were combined with being unable to flush the loo, the results would be quite unbloggable. Mind you, six months after I went there the hotel was bombed (the Mariott, summer’08 I think) and a few dozen people killed, staff and customers, and the pictures were dreadful. So I agree we should all be grateful – there are worse things inb the world than earthquakes, even big ones!
Lots of love
Lx
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I hope you sleep well… and quake-free… you’re doing fantastic work and I’m soooo impressed with how you’ve used Facebook to coordinate the relief volunteers!
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Blimey – a few familiar commenters (waves at cartooncat and Louise)
It’s great to see you’re able to do so much. Is there anything YOU need (which can be sent from the other side of the planet?)?
Cxx
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Cathryn – any contact from you and Louise (and comments from others like cartooncat) sustains me emotionally, and there’s nothing I need more just now.
Louise, there’s a link on the post where I mentioned the building that has a photo.
You’ll be glad to know we’ve just been told it’s safe to drink tap water!
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