I can't get in touch with my grandma or anyone else. All lines are down. The Chilean news channel only shows crumbled buildings and terrible things and I'm writing because otherwise I'd have no nails to bite, or sweets to eat, and I'm tired of pacing around my house.
How mad is the Earth, really? This is bad;-(((
UPDATE: 7:20 PM EST
Got in touch with grandma finally and she's doing okay. She was a little groggy because her neighbor had given her some medicine to keep her nerves under control. She was sad because tons of keepsakes and furniture had broken but the house is doing well and she's not hurt. There's no electricity or water so I know she's struggling. My BFF Brian gave me a few hundred dollars to send to her and I'll add more to that just to make sure we help cover any damages and basic needs. We're still tracking down every family member since my father has 9 siblings and the extended family is rather large.
I feel so guilty for not being there. It's such an awful feeling to be here with all the comforts in the world and to have this little strip of land I care about so much be in such bad shape. I've been teary eyed all day... very sad;(
Thank you all for the wonderful wishes. It's pretty amazing when you know a few others around the world are thinking of you and wishing you well. I think my immediate family will be well... but so what... what about everyone else on the street and the millions left homeless. Who fixes that? Alas...
Here's a live stream of TV CHILE in case anyone wants to see the newscast we're watching at home. It's in Spanish... of course.
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/tv-de-chile
UPDATE 8:20 EST
I was just on the phone with grams when there was a nasty shake and I just heard the fear in her voice and the stuff breaking in the background. She had just finished cleaning up a bit. Oh, and someone broke in while she was out earlier and stole a few things including her wedding ring... the one she's had for over 60 years. F*CK THIS. Pardon my french. I'm losing my peace.
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Oh honey, I'm sitting here worried right along with you. I pray everyone is okay. You're in my thoughts today more than ever Cindy. ♥
Please keep us updated on what's happening with your family.
Thanks love. I don't want to watch this anymore and I can't tear myself away from the TV. I still haven't heard anything... Santiago looks better than the southern part of the country. That makes me feel better, but they just showed a security camera video of the quake and I just pictured grams in that bouncing around and falling all over the place. Ugh... *breathe*
One of those times I wish we could sit and share a tea and some quiet company. It's frustrating sometimes, being so far from people.
But I'm sure you have friends where you are to support you and for that I'm thankful.
keeping you and your family in my prayers, cindy.
Cindy,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. May your family in Chile be safe and free from any harm.
Hey Cindy,
Putting out positive thoughts and praying that your family & friends will be safe.
Love...
I thought of you and your family immediately Cindy. Let us know as soon as you hear anything. You and your family are in my thoughts. Im sending love out to your Grandma and peace to your heart.
xxmichelle
Cindy,
We are praying for you and your family. My heart breaks to hear of the additional grief she experienced- as though the quake were not enough.
Hi Cindy! I came by because I thought about you when I saw the news. And you're the only one from Chile that I really know. Not that we really know each other but since we're blogmates, I feel that way. Sending you love and prayers! I know how it feels to be far away -- especially when stuff happens to family members. Will keep you and Chile in my thoughts and prayers.
Hi Cindy, keeping you and your family in my thoughts..
Dear Cindy,
Sorry to hear about the calamity. Pray that your grandma, family, friends & the people of Chile will be safe and speedy recovery.
Hi Everyone - thanks for the good thoughts and positivity:)))) I'm happy to report grandma is doing much better. I sent her cash today and I'm hoping she won't have any trouble getting it. C'mooooon Western Union... Anyhoo, the entire country is in chaos of course and I've decided to stop watching the news for hours at a time because it's depressing and nothing is accomplished by sitting on my couch with teary eyes all day. So, I'm hoping for the best and looking to get there as soon as possible. Again, thank you for being the best BBs in the whole wide world!
That's good news hon, I know it's not always easy but if anyone can keep a positive attitude it's you right? (Right?) C'moooon big-girl panties!
(Great, now anyone who doesn't regularly read you will think I'm a perv.)
Anyway, I'm dropping by to say you and all involved are in my thoughts. This probably won't be the last such message.
I am glad that your grandmother made it through everything. I can't imagine the destruction or how everyday life has changed. I am sure that your grandmother is looking forward to your visit now more than ever and I'm sure the extra comfort gives her strength. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.