March 31, 2011
Suntanning Squirrels
Here in Louisiana where mom and dad live, there is a large population of squirrels: large in quantity and large in size. Everywhere you look, you can see squirrels eating, running, playing, and even tanning! Well, we say they are tanning. You can see them laying on the ground, legs up, eyes closed, and enjoying the sunshine! Typically they lay in the road because we figure that is the warmest spot. Except today is cloudy and I saw a squirrel suntanning... Hmm...
Settling In at the Gym
I came out extremely well in a gym membership today. I had seen a "no contract" offer posted at a gym near mom and dad's house and decided that I should check it out. As I walked into the gym today, I quickly figured out.. it was huge! There are two sections, one for children and one for adults. It has multiple group classrooms for yoga, bodypump, spinning, and more that I haven't even heard of. The enire second floor is reserved for cardio equpiment, strength training equipment, and a core workout area complete with mats, balls, and free weights. The ladies locker room is amazing, furnished with lockers (made from wood, not metal), showers, sauna, and hot tub. The gym also offers wireless internet for those of us who simply cannot be away from the internet, a cafe complete with coffee and nutritional drinks, and outdoor heated pools for anytime swimming.
March 30, 2011
Leaving Japan and...
A week into staying at my parents, a storm begins brewing threatening flash flooding, hail, and tornadoes. Whew! I thought I was getting away from the natural disasters but they seem to have caught up with me.
So far, no word as to when I can go back. I am looking into joining a gym today so I can have something to keep me busy (also it'll keep me healthy).
I've been shopping and I think I'm set now, got a few more clothes since clothes shopping in Japan is semi difficult. Everyone there is extremely trim so unless you follow suit, clothes could be a challenge.
Latest news from Japan: plutonium was found in soil samples around the nuclear reactors, but right now it's no higher than levels naturally found in soil in other parts of Japan. The TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Company) chief says that right now, he has no plan as to how to they are going to fix the situation. There is a large portion of underground water that has been contaminated with radioactive particles. Also, they are still trying to fix leaks from the reactors. Aftershocks are still occurring with the rolling power outages and very cool weather (they had snow last week!). The sea water used to help cool the reactors left behind salt residue that has to be cleaned out not mention the sea water itself became contaminated with radiation.
Please keep Japan in your prayers.
So far, no word as to when I can go back. I am looking into joining a gym today so I can have something to keep me busy (also it'll keep me healthy).
I've been shopping and I think I'm set now, got a few more clothes since clothes shopping in Japan is semi difficult. Everyone there is extremely trim so unless you follow suit, clothes could be a challenge.
Latest news from Japan: plutonium was found in soil samples around the nuclear reactors, but right now it's no higher than levels naturally found in soil in other parts of Japan. The TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Company) chief says that right now, he has no plan as to how to they are going to fix the situation. There is a large portion of underground water that has been contaminated with radioactive particles. Also, they are still trying to fix leaks from the reactors. Aftershocks are still occurring with the rolling power outages and very cool weather (they had snow last week!). The sea water used to help cool the reactors left behind salt residue that has to be cleaned out not mention the sea water itself became contaminated with radiation.
Please keep Japan in your prayers.
March 29, 2011
Green Onions
In all my 23 years of being alive, I was told today that I was using green onions wrong! Typically, I would begin with the green end, trim a little, then begin chopping until I got down to the light green part and stop. Momma was watching me and asked if there was a reason I wasn't using the ends. I just thought that was the way to use green onions. Momma went on to tell me about my great grandmother who would eat a "sweet onion" at every meal and eat the lower portion of the onion leaving the dark green parts. I guess you learn something new everyday.
I'm still adjusting to driving here and can proudly say, I was able to stay on the right side of the road! (Only by repeating "right side, right side, right side") Once in a parking lot I forgot for about a second but luckily Aaron was with me to remind me. :)
I'm still adjusting to driving here and can proudly say, I was able to stay on the right side of the road! (Only by repeating "right side, right side, right side") Once in a parking lot I forgot for about a second but luckily Aaron was with me to remind me. :)
March 28, 2011
Riding on the Trace
This morning, Momma, Daddy, and I got loaded up and drove over to the St. Tammany Trace. It is an old railroad track that has been paved over and is used now for walking/jogging/biking/skating. It is a beautiful trail filled with local flora and fauna. Today we saw Cherokee rose, Army worms, and swamp life.
As you begin, you cross a few roads and then ride the shaded path. You pass a small pond-like area which is filled with lily pads blooming with flowers. As you keep riding through the pines, you can see houses close to the trail and more roads to cross, some with heavier traffic than others. A small bridge comes up surrounded by the green trees and a small picnic bench. More swampy regions pass with a small creek running beside the trail (today it didn't have much water in it). Near our turning point, a bush with purple flowers lines the right side of the trail. Momma says rabbits live in these bushes that will run out at you while you ride by. Luckily we did not encounter the rabbits today. Finally you reach the big bridge and we stop to take a break. The bridge crosses the Lacombe Bayou where you see pretty river houses and wildlife. Today we saw a few turtles poking their heads out of the water and it is rumored that an alligator lives there too.
We made our way back, passing other people riding, walking, and jogging. They are very friendly, almost everyone saying hello as we pass. We get back to the Expedition, pleasantly exhausted, and head home after riding 11.5 miles.
As you begin, you cross a few roads and then ride the shaded path. You pass a small pond-like area which is filled with lily pads blooming with flowers. As you keep riding through the pines, you can see houses close to the trail and more roads to cross, some with heavier traffic than others. A small bridge comes up surrounded by the green trees and a small picnic bench. More swampy regions pass with a small creek running beside the trail (today it didn't have much water in it). Near our turning point, a bush with purple flowers lines the right side of the trail. Momma says rabbits live in these bushes that will run out at you while you ride by. Luckily we did not encounter the rabbits today. Finally you reach the big bridge and we stop to take a break. The bridge crosses the Lacombe Bayou where you see pretty river houses and wildlife. Today we saw a few turtles poking their heads out of the water and it is rumored that an alligator lives there too.
We made our way back, passing other people riding, walking, and jogging. They are very friendly, almost everyone saying hello as we pass. We get back to the Expedition, pleasantly exhausted, and head home after riding 11.5 miles.
March 27, 2011
Being Home
Home is wonderful. The only thing I wish is that Alan were here with me. He left for Guam three weeks ago and is expected to stay in Guam until we get the "all clear" to return. However, the possibility of something going terribly wrong and not being able to return before Alan's cruise lingers on my mind. I would not be able to see him for an additional six months. But for now, I'm trying to think positive.
Being home has brought many adjustments: riding on the right side of the road, not seeing kanji on every sign, not seeing the town filled with Japanese nationals, not using my iphone, humidity, green grass, and temperatures warmer than 55 degrees.
Home also brings crab legs (yummy), beautiful scenery, anything that you could possibly want at your fingertips, clothes, Walmart, more than 20 channels on the tv.
Although I'm glad I'm here, I cannot forget what is going on back in Japan. On the news this morning, it was stated that, "God is punishing the Japanese". For what?! The crime rates in Japan are lower than anywhere in the U.S., despite this crisis, they are calm, patient, and grateful for any help they receive. There has been no looting, riots, or uprisings. They are some of the kindest people I have ever met.
I do pray the situation gets under control and recovery efforts move quickly and efficiently.
Being home has brought many adjustments: riding on the right side of the road, not seeing kanji on every sign, not seeing the town filled with Japanese nationals, not using my iphone, humidity, green grass, and temperatures warmer than 55 degrees.
Home also brings crab legs (yummy), beautiful scenery, anything that you could possibly want at your fingertips, clothes, Walmart, more than 20 channels on the tv.
Although I'm glad I'm here, I cannot forget what is going on back in Japan. On the news this morning, it was stated that, "God is punishing the Japanese". For what?! The crime rates in Japan are lower than anywhere in the U.S., despite this crisis, they are calm, patient, and grateful for any help they receive. There has been no looting, riots, or uprisings. They are some of the kindest people I have ever met.
I do pray the situation gets under control and recovery efforts move quickly and efficiently.
The Trip Home - part 2
On the shuttle back to the airport, I talked with a girl who traveled with us who was headed towards Kingsland, Ga (where my Uncle David lives). We chatted and went in together because we were on the same flight to Atlanta at 6:10 in the morning. Delta has kiosks to check in so we went up some and punched in every number on our itinerary and could not pull up our reservations. We asked an agent to help us and she tried once and said, "Oh, well I guess you'll have to go through the line". We looked over at the line, by now filled with about ten people, and headed over. Twenty minutes later, 4:20, we had not moved and the one agent was still helping the same person. I began getting ancy and decided I needed to do something about it. Now typically, I'm not the "take charge" type, but this morning, there was NO WAY I was missing that flight. I found a different agent and began explaining our situation and she agreed to go find some more agents to help us.
We quickly moved through the line, breezed through security, and had time for some breakfast before boarding the plane. The little over 4 hour trip to Atlanta passed uneventfully.I purchased the in-flight internet because I was extremely tired, getting grumpy, and needed something to help me pass the time. It seemed that in no time, we landed and I was on my way.
In Atlanta, Aunt Jan and Grandma met me and helped me get checked in for my next flight and we chatted and talked because I had a five hour layover. Well, I thought it was only going to be a five hour layover. A couple hours before my flight I decided that I needed to go ahead and get through security (where I found a half-empty water bottle in my carry on) and headed towards my gate. I arrived and sat down for the short wait to board when I glanced at the screen at noticed that my flight was not expected until 9:15, more than two hours past my original flight time.
Once again, I turned to the internet to keep me entertained, chatting with Momma and friends on Facebook. I was lucky enough to get a seat near the charging station so I was able to plug in my laptop and go. The plane was delayed due to storms in Pittsburgh, tornadoes, lighting, and torrential rain. When we finally boarded the plane, I was so relieved to be on my last leg of the trip.
When I landed for the very last time, I started crying, relieved to be finished, to be home. I met up with Momma and Daddy and we very quickly got home. When I finally did the math, I figured that I had been awake for 53 hours and had only gotten 4 hours (at most) of sleep.
We quickly moved through the line, breezed through security, and had time for some breakfast before boarding the plane. The little over 4 hour trip to Atlanta passed uneventfully.I purchased the in-flight internet because I was extremely tired, getting grumpy, and needed something to help me pass the time. It seemed that in no time, we landed and I was on my way.
In Atlanta, Aunt Jan and Grandma met me and helped me get checked in for my next flight and we chatted and talked because I had a five hour layover. Well, I thought it was only going to be a five hour layover. A couple hours before my flight I decided that I needed to go ahead and get through security (where I found a half-empty water bottle in my carry on) and headed towards my gate. I arrived and sat down for the short wait to board when I glanced at the screen at noticed that my flight was not expected until 9:15, more than two hours past my original flight time.
Once again, I turned to the internet to keep me entertained, chatting with Momma and friends on Facebook. I was lucky enough to get a seat near the charging station so I was able to plug in my laptop and go. The plane was delayed due to storms in Pittsburgh, tornadoes, lighting, and torrential rain. When we finally boarded the plane, I was so relieved to be on my last leg of the trip.
When I landed for the very last time, I started crying, relieved to be finished, to be home. I met up with Momma and Daddy and we very quickly got home. When I finally did the math, I figured that I had been awake for 53 hours and had only gotten 4 hours (at most) of sleep.
March 25, 2011
The Trip Home - part 1
When I finally knew I was really going on that plane, I was so excited. I thnk I had one of the worlds biggest smiles on my face! We waited about another hour until the plane was prepped and ready and then we were called to begin boarding. Since I sat in the exit row, the back of my seat didn't recline. One girl who had been selected like me was complaining and really made a big deal about it. Then again, she was wearing some fluffy feathery creation on her head with leather pants and three inch heels. Interesting choice for airplane wear.
I was lucky enough to have plenty of leg room! Sleeping was a challenge and I knew that I rarely sleep on a plane. What little sleep I did get was on the tray table in front of me. Too bad there was also a little boy sitting that chair who, when he saw me tryingto catch some shut-eye, would shake the chair!
First we flew from Atsugi to Anchorage, a little over six hours, and then sat on the plane while it was refueled and loaded with more food, about two hours. From there we flew to Seattle and quickly went through customs and had iteneraries inland for our final destinations.
From there, I was taken to a hotel nearby to spend the night since my flight was at 6:10 the next morning. At the hotel, which was very large, I had my own room and began settling in for, what I hoped would be, a night of sleep. It turned out my cousin, Missy, and her husband and son, Dan and Jordan, were just down the road eating dinner! Missy came to pick me up and we ate a delicious dinner at The Cheesecake Factory.
Back at the hotel, I made a few phone calls with the free calling card supplied by the American Red Cross and tried to get some sleep. I woke up two hours later. That did give me plenty of time to re-pack my bag and clean up before the rest of my journey. Before I knew it, I was out the door on the shuttle back to the airport.
I was lucky enough to have plenty of leg room! Sleeping was a challenge and I knew that I rarely sleep on a plane. What little sleep I did get was on the tray table in front of me. Too bad there was also a little boy sitting that chair who, when he saw me tryingto catch some shut-eye, would shake the chair!
First we flew from Atsugi to Anchorage, a little over six hours, and then sat on the plane while it was refueled and loaded with more food, about two hours. From there we flew to Seattle and quickly went through customs and had iteneraries inland for our final destinations.
From there, I was taken to a hotel nearby to spend the night since my flight was at 6:10 the next morning. At the hotel, which was very large, I had my own room and began settling in for, what I hoped would be, a night of sleep. It turned out my cousin, Missy, and her husband and son, Dan and Jordan, were just down the road eating dinner! Missy came to pick me up and we ate a delicious dinner at The Cheesecake Factory.
Back at the hotel, I made a few phone calls with the free calling card supplied by the American Red Cross and tried to get some sleep. I woke up two hours later. That did give me plenty of time to re-pack my bag and clean up before the rest of my journey. Before I knew it, I was out the door on the shuttle back to the airport.
March 24, 2011
How I Got on the Plane
Things began on Tuesday as any other Tuesday. I got ready and went to school to sub in a kindergarten classroom. Throughout the day I was concerned with filling out forms to possibly get a ticket through PSD. After school, a couple friends and I went to PSD to try and book a flight. When we walk in we acetone that no more tickets would be booked that day and to come back in the morning. We made plans to meet at seven.
I returned home and was deciding what to do with the rest of my day when I get a phone call. "Thank you for answering your phone," the voice said. "Do you want to get on the flight leaving base today?" I asked her if she was serious and she asked," Are you packed?" I had thirty minutes to pack, tidy up the house, and report to the cinema. I have never packed a bag so quickly in my life. Before I knew it, I was at the cinema waiting to begin processing. Since the group currently flying was full of pregnant mothers and small children, the exit rows could not be occupied. That is how I got on the flight.
I returned home and was deciding what to do with the rest of my day when I get a phone call. "Thank you for answering your phone," the voice said. "Do you want to get on the flight leaving base today?" I asked her if she was serious and she asked," Are you packed?" I had thirty minutes to pack, tidy up the house, and report to the cinema. I have never packed a bag so quickly in my life. Before I knew it, I was at the cinema waiting to begin processing. Since the group currently flying was full of pregnant mothers and small children, the exit rows could not be occupied. That is how I got on the flight.
March 21, 2011
More Precautionary Measures
For those of you who did not read my father's note on Facebook, let me fill you in. Planes are trickling in, each holding approximately 125 passengers. From Atsugi, 2200 people would like to leave. At this rate, I will be next in line for a plane by about middle of next week. Hopefully, more planes will arrive.
Potassium Iodide tablets were distributed on base today. We have not been instructed to take them but were encouraged to pick them up as another precautionary measure. I am beginning to get extremely frustrated with the entire situation. The iodide tablets help the thyroid gland repel the radiation. When radiation enters the body, it alters the thyroid gland and creates long term health problems. Today, we were given a five day supply in case the need arises.
I will go back to work tomorrow, but not as the teacher I have been serving a long term sub for. I think maybe so many teachers have left that the school is trying to use all their resources just to fill the mainstream classrooms and the specialists are being pulled to help. I will be glad to be working, but I sure am ready to get on an airplane.
Potassium Iodide tablets were distributed on base today. We have not been instructed to take them but were encouraged to pick them up as another precautionary measure. I am beginning to get extremely frustrated with the entire situation. The iodide tablets help the thyroid gland repel the radiation. When radiation enters the body, it alters the thyroid gland and creates long term health problems. Today, we were given a five day supply in case the need arises.
I will go back to work tomorrow, but not as the teacher I have been serving a long term sub for. I think maybe so many teachers have left that the school is trying to use all their resources just to fill the mainstream classrooms and the specialists are being pulled to help. I will be glad to be working, but I sure am ready to get on an airplane.
March 20, 2011
Passing the Time
I am very lucky to have some great people in my company. They have been great through this ordeal, keeping their heads on straight and waiting patiently. We have been hanging out, playing games, and watching movies to pass the time. Last night we played Apples to Apples and Quelf (an awesome and completely random board game!) Today, a Harry Potter marathon is playing on the tv and I could not be more excited. I love Harry Potter.
The base commander has instructed all venues on base to open to day so we can have things to do, bowling, the theatre, eating out. I have yet to re-pack my bag, but I plan on keeping the weight around 50 lbs so I can actually be able to handle it. As of now, I'm still waiting, anxious for news and for planes to arrive.
The base commander has instructed all venues on base to open to day so we can have things to do, bowling, the theatre, eating out. I have yet to re-pack my bag, but I plan on keeping the weight around 50 lbs so I can actually be able to handle it. As of now, I'm still waiting, anxious for news and for planes to arrive.
March 19, 2011
(Subbed) Nuclear Boy うんち・おならで例える原発解説
Check out this video on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sakN2hSVxA&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Sent from my iPhone
Update on "Hurry Up and Wait!"
The first category was called this morning approximately 9:30 and told an hour later to go back home, there has been a temporary delay. I was heartbroken because I had gotten so excited for things to finally have gotten started. Now, several hours later, we have been given much more information and I am passing it on to you.
1) We are now required to travel with TDY orders (no clue what TDY stands for) so we will be able to gain re-entry into Japan. Luckily, these orders are supposed to take me directly to my final destination: New Orleans, La., on the Navy's dime.
2) I am now authorized two (2) bags weighing up to seventy (70) pounds each! I don't think I could pack that much stuff but I am definitely re-packing tonight.
3) I am authorized to receive a safe haven allowance for any additional expenses I might have, but our COLA (cost of living allowance) will be terminated.
4) The planes that arrived today were the wrong kind of planes, military and in order for this evacuation we need commercial. Now the next expected planes are for Monday.
5) They are expecting another small bout of radiation Monday night and Tuesday. We are advised to take the same precautions as this past week.
In preparation for this evacuation, I cleaned out my refrigerator and freezer Thursday night. Unfortunately, we have not left yet. Cleaning out refrigerator + not leaving yet = no food. The commissary and a few restaurants on base are still open so I can get food, but this has been such a hassle.
1) We are now required to travel with TDY orders (no clue what TDY stands for) so we will be able to gain re-entry into Japan. Luckily, these orders are supposed to take me directly to my final destination: New Orleans, La., on the Navy's dime.
2) I am now authorized two (2) bags weighing up to seventy (70) pounds each! I don't think I could pack that much stuff but I am definitely re-packing tonight.
3) I am authorized to receive a safe haven allowance for any additional expenses I might have, but our COLA (cost of living allowance) will be terminated.
4) The planes that arrived today were the wrong kind of planes, military and in order for this evacuation we need commercial. Now the next expected planes are for Monday.
5) They are expecting another small bout of radiation Monday night and Tuesday. We are advised to take the same precautions as this past week.
In preparation for this evacuation, I cleaned out my refrigerator and freezer Thursday night. Unfortunately, we have not left yet. Cleaning out refrigerator + not leaving yet = no food. The commissary and a few restaurants on base are still open so I can get food, but this has been such a hassle.
Hurry Up and Wait!
For the last almost 48 hours, there has been many questions but few answers. As of this morning, no one has been evacuated. I went to a meeting yesterday and there I was told that I needed to find my category and group from a list and then when my number is called, I bring my luggage to the theatre and begin the process from there. As of this morning, there is no list.
In the back of my mind I wonder if we are really going to get out of here.
However, I received two pieces of good news: 1) I am allowed to carry a 50lb bag, and 2) the Japanese power company is holding off on our power outages until Tuesday. Living here on the small, english-speaking island of Atsugi, many rumors are started, much information is miscommunicated, and we receive different "official reports". So now I get to play a game, the "hurry up and wait game".
Lunch yesterday was amazing though. Two friends and I went to an Indian restaurant and ate curry and naan! I had been missing this food for quite a while and it was delicious!
In the back of my mind I wonder if we are really going to get out of here.
However, I received two pieces of good news: 1) I am allowed to carry a 50lb bag, and 2) the Japanese power company is holding off on our power outages until Tuesday. Living here on the small, english-speaking island of Atsugi, many rumors are started, much information is miscommunicated, and we receive different "official reports". So now I get to play a game, the "hurry up and wait game".
Lunch yesterday was amazing though. Two friends and I went to an Indian restaurant and ate curry and naan! I had been missing this food for quite a while and it was delicious!
March 17, 2011
On the Road Again
This afternoon, it was decided that we would evacuate Japan. at first, we were just told to go home, pack our bag, and be ready. A few hours later, the message changed to, "we are definately evacuating". With so many things to do, I went into "commander mode" where I just focus on what has to be done and then get it done. however, when this "to do" list becomes a "to done" list, I sit here, thinking about all the possiblities.
If things go smoothly, maybe we will be back within a month and life can resume. If things go badly, I may never see these belongings again. It is an incredibly hard decision sorting through things that can be left and things to take and it all has to fit into a bag weighing no more than 35 lbs. My life, has to be placed into a 35 lb bag.
I think of all the papers I need, the certificates and such. Then, the things I can't live without: some jewelry, my Bible, some wedding pictures. Then, a few changes of clothes to get me by. To top it all off, Japan decided to quake some more, giving us another taste of why we are getting out of here.
As I sit, finishing yet beginning my night, I look around at all the things I can't take with me. I know this shouldn't be about the things, but the things! Our Christmas decorations (though an "our first christmas" ornament did find it's way in), our books, our kitchenware! All things I am unsure if I will ever see again.
I have a meeting in the morning, 10am. Here I am led to believe that I will sign up for a flight and receive further instruction. I may fly out tomorrow, I may not. But in anycase, I will keep my blog updated as much as possible.
If things go smoothly, maybe we will be back within a month and life can resume. If things go badly, I may never see these belongings again. It is an incredibly hard decision sorting through things that can be left and things to take and it all has to fit into a bag weighing no more than 35 lbs. My life, has to be placed into a 35 lb bag.
I think of all the papers I need, the certificates and such. Then, the things I can't live without: some jewelry, my Bible, some wedding pictures. Then, a few changes of clothes to get me by. To top it all off, Japan decided to quake some more, giving us another taste of why we are getting out of here.
As I sit, finishing yet beginning my night, I look around at all the things I can't take with me. I know this shouldn't be about the things, but the things! Our Christmas decorations (though an "our first christmas" ornament did find it's way in), our books, our kitchenware! All things I am unsure if I will ever see again.
I have a meeting in the morning, 10am. Here I am led to believe that I will sign up for a flight and receive further instruction. I may fly out tomorrow, I may not. But in anycase, I will keep my blog updated as much as possible.
An Aftershock a Day Keeps What Away?
Luckily, we haven't experienced another major aftershock although I was woken this morning by a small quake. If you're curious to see the aftershocks, where they are, and their strength, you can Google Japan Meterological Agency. Click on "earthquakes" and you will see the latest aftershock. Another button ( I think "earthquake information") shows all the aftershocks and their strength.
Today we were sent a note informing us that the radiation is out of the air but still lingers on the ground. We are still advised to stay indoors whenever possible and to wash our hands after we go outside. The radiation on the ground will likely stay until the next rain.
Many people are going back to the states, mainly those with small children. Still, school is in session and the only things that have been canceled are afterschool activities. We have plenty of supplies, still get food shipments daily, and are expecting the gas resivior to be filled within the week. Gas is being rationed but as I don't have a car, I have no need to worry about that. :)
Today we were sent a note informing us that the radiation is out of the air but still lingers on the ground. We are still advised to stay indoors whenever possible and to wash our hands after we go outside. The radiation on the ground will likely stay until the next rain.
Many people are going back to the states, mainly those with small children. Still, school is in session and the only things that have been canceled are afterschool activities. We have plenty of supplies, still get food shipments daily, and are expecting the gas resivior to be filled within the week. Gas is being rationed but as I don't have a car, I have no need to worry about that. :)
March 16, 2011
Radiation Levels
This is the slide that was shown to us during the town hall meeting. As you can see, the level of radiation is so low that we receive more from our computer monitors and tvs everyday. In order for an evacuation to occur, the level has to be near 5000, something that is off this chart. The base has very sensitive equipment and monitors the radiation levels eight times daily.
Earthquakes, Power Outages, and Radiation... Oh my!
Well this has certainly been an adventure. Yesterday morning, we were told that low levels of radiation were detected here on base. Of course after that the entire base was in a flurry of panic: parents pulling children out of schools, people emptying the commissary of bottled water and non-perishable items. Everyone lived in fear for about four hours until we received official word that the levels were so low that you would get more radiation on a two hour flight. Last night, a town meeting was held.
In the meeting, we were reassured of the extremely low levels of radiation: two bananas give off the same amount found here. Officials have advised us to take precautions, very conservative precautions, and say we should limit our outdoor activity and refrain from using heaters and air conditioners. When asked what level of radiation would evacuations take place, the number is many, many times higher. Nearly 10,000 times. That being said, everything here is fine. We have a long way to go before we need to worry.
The rolling blackouts began yesterday and sent the base into darkness for around three hours. Only the last hour did it really get dark as the sun set. Today power outages are expected to begin around noon and I'm curious to see how the children react. We have been conserving as much energy as possible through holding class with lights off and only turning on our computers for short periods of time.
Also last night an aftershock occurred which was pretty large. Not quite as large as the initial quake we felt but larger than the other aftershocks we have been through. Luckily, no damage was reported at the epicenter of this aftershock and the news channels have gone on to report about the tsunami victims. It seems as if people here do nit worry about an earthquake unless it has damaging effects. However for me, I literally get so shaken up it is hard to calm down.
In the meeting, we were reassured of the extremely low levels of radiation: two bananas give off the same amount found here. Officials have advised us to take precautions, very conservative precautions, and say we should limit our outdoor activity and refrain from using heaters and air conditioners. When asked what level of radiation would evacuations take place, the number is many, many times higher. Nearly 10,000 times. That being said, everything here is fine. We have a long way to go before we need to worry.
The rolling blackouts began yesterday and sent the base into darkness for around three hours. Only the last hour did it really get dark as the sun set. Today power outages are expected to begin around noon and I'm curious to see how the children react. We have been conserving as much energy as possible through holding class with lights off and only turning on our computers for short periods of time.
Also last night an aftershock occurred which was pretty large. Not quite as large as the initial quake we felt but larger than the other aftershocks we have been through. Luckily, no damage was reported at the epicenter of this aftershock and the news channels have gone on to report about the tsunami victims. It seems as if people here do nit worry about an earthquake unless it has damaging effects. However for me, I literally get so shaken up it is hard to calm down.
March 14, 2011
Power Outages
Although we were warned, the power has yet to go out on us today. But we have been encouraged to use as little electricity as possible to help with the energy efforts. Tomorrow though may be a different story with power outages scheduled for twice a day.
We had another aftershock today while at school. I thought I had finally gotten over the feeling of being on a boat but today brought it back.
We had another aftershock today while at school. I thought I had finally gotten over the feeling of being on a boat but today brought it back.
March 12, 2011
Earthquakes
My first earthquake occurred in Georgia in the middle of the night. I was woken by movement similar to someone shaking the foot board of my bed. It only lasted a few short moments before I fell back asleep. Then I didn't really know what an earthquake felt like, thinking that maybe I had just woken up feeling queasy. However, I can now say that an earthquake is the most terrifying experience of my life.
It began when a friend and I had just entered a car and were preparing to leave. At first we thought something must be wrong with the car until we looked around and noticed everything else was quaking too. The parked cars across from us looked as if they were filled with kids bouncing around inside. The trees swayed as if a hard wind was blowing. But I think the thing that was most surreal was watching the glass on the storefront wave back and forth. I was sure it was going to shatter. This feeling kept on for about five minutes until it finally stopped.
My friend took me to my apartment where Alan and I live on the fifth floor. Inside, dvd's had fallen off the stand, books knocked over, and a few picture frames flipped over. I walked around to check the other rooms of the house when I heard this sound coming from my closet, almost as ifsomething had gotten inside and was trying to get out. I then noticed the blinds begin to quiver and it dawned on me: aftershocks. I jumped into the nearest doorframe and watched as everything began swaying; I could even look out the patio window and see the apartment tower next to us moving. I felt so helpless and terrified at what I saw and could do nothing about. About four minutes later, that quake ended and I decided I needed to talk to someone.
I called my mom and began explaining what was happening. While I was on the phone, a second aftershock began and I jumped back into the doorframe. This time I was bawling, terrified because I was alone, because Alan is in Guam, and because I did not know how long the quaking was going to last. When the light fixture finally quit swaying I bolted for the door determined to find Mt friend and get out of the tower. We quickly learned of the damage and watched footage of the tsunami wash away everything. We stood in awe, wondering how many people were affected and what would happen next.
The rest of the evening was filled with reassuring loved ones, excited talk, and trying to unwind from the stressful day. The aftershocks are still occurring but are so weak I can hardly feel them. I am very thankful to say that all is well.
It began when a friend and I had just entered a car and were preparing to leave. At first we thought something must be wrong with the car until we looked around and noticed everything else was quaking too. The parked cars across from us looked as if they were filled with kids bouncing around inside. The trees swayed as if a hard wind was blowing. But I think the thing that was most surreal was watching the glass on the storefront wave back and forth. I was sure it was going to shatter. This feeling kept on for about five minutes until it finally stopped.
My friend took me to my apartment where Alan and I live on the fifth floor. Inside, dvd's had fallen off the stand, books knocked over, and a few picture frames flipped over. I walked around to check the other rooms of the house when I heard this sound coming from my closet, almost as ifsomething had gotten inside and was trying to get out. I then noticed the blinds begin to quiver and it dawned on me: aftershocks. I jumped into the nearest doorframe and watched as everything began swaying; I could even look out the patio window and see the apartment tower next to us moving. I felt so helpless and terrified at what I saw and could do nothing about. About four minutes later, that quake ended and I decided I needed to talk to someone.
I called my mom and began explaining what was happening. While I was on the phone, a second aftershock began and I jumped back into the doorframe. This time I was bawling, terrified because I was alone, because Alan is in Guam, and because I did not know how long the quaking was going to last. When the light fixture finally quit swaying I bolted for the door determined to find Mt friend and get out of the tower. We quickly learned of the damage and watched footage of the tsunami wash away everything. We stood in awe, wondering how many people were affected and what would happen next.
The rest of the evening was filled with reassuring loved ones, excited talk, and trying to unwind from the stressful day. The aftershocks are still occurring but are so weak I can hardly feel them. I am very thankful to say that all is well.
March 9, 2011
Busy, Busy, Busy
I am officially in the middle of my second full week of long term subbing - and I love it! The teachers I work with are wonderful, one even lets me teach a lesson to her class on occasion. The kids I have are great, almost no behavioral problems so I can really focus on helping them read. I am filling out my official teacher's application this week so I can (hopefully) get a classroom of my own next school year!
Before I had the long term subbing job, I agreed to a babysitting job where I went to the house in the morning before school and helped the boys get off to school and then pick them up from school and stay with them in the afternoon/evening until their parents got home. I hated to back down, so the first of this week, I got up at 5 every morning to get myself ready, then go to the other house to help the boys get ready, then go to school, then go back home with the boys and stay until the evening. It was fun keeping the boys but I am glad that I don't have to get up quite so early tomorrow. :)
I have been missing having a puppy again this week and am debating getting a hamster. It's about the only thing that is allowed in the apartment towers that I would want to have (we're not big cat people). So, maybe. If a hamster is in our future, I'll definately post pictures.
Before I had the long term subbing job, I agreed to a babysitting job where I went to the house in the morning before school and helped the boys get off to school and then pick them up from school and stay with them in the afternoon/evening until their parents got home. I hated to back down, so the first of this week, I got up at 5 every morning to get myself ready, then go to the other house to help the boys get ready, then go to school, then go back home with the boys and stay until the evening. It was fun keeping the boys but I am glad that I don't have to get up quite so early tomorrow. :)
I have been missing having a puppy again this week and am debating getting a hamster. It's about the only thing that is allowed in the apartment towers that I would want to have (we're not big cat people). So, maybe. If a hamster is in our future, I'll definately post pictures.
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