Tsunami, Day After

We ventured out this morning to check on some friends and witness the damage. It's so bizarre because most of the island isn't affected at all. Around our area things look the same as usual.

But when you drive into Leone or into Pago Pago, everything changes. It's like you're driving into a movie set of a warzone. People are sitting around taking in the situation. Many have begun cleaning up with rakes, shovels, buckets, and hoses. In Pago Pago most people are wearing face masks or t-shirts to protect themselves from the dust and fumes. Everything smells like dried up salt water, or mucky brine, with whiffs of fuel.

Here's what we saw.




















Everyone has a story to tell. We've heard tales of heroism and very close calls. You can see people in groups raising their arms to show the water level or waving them to show the waves. There is a slow line of cars and buses--locals trying to take in the magnitude of the damage.

Now as the numbers are being reported, people are finding out who made it through, and who didn't. Everyone is emotional and dealing with the the tragedy as best they can. We sadly found out that two of our dear friends were casualties in the village of Asili.
This is what remains of their home and store.


These photos are from the village of Leone.


Here's our what's left of the Leone Post Office.

I never got my birthday package. Maybe someone else did.

Life will not be the same here, but Samoans are strong and positive.
Thanks for your concern and prayers.