LIFE IS NOT MEASURED BY THE NUMBER OF BREATHS WE TAKE, BUT BY THE MOMENTS THAT TAKE OUR BREATH AWAY.

Friday, January 15, 2010

Pink Saturday 1/16/10

I am saddened this Saturday at the Tragic Earthquake in Haiti. Like many, I have been glued to the TV, praying and crying for these people. I truly cant imagine the Horror of what they are going through.

Warning, this is a LONG story post. If you want to just look at Pink Pictures, I have added some . :)In 1994, I lived in Los Angeles. We were awakened at 4:30 in the morning by what felt and sounded like a Freight train going through our Apt. I had fallen asleep on the couch that night watching TV, while my Ex and my son slept soundly in the bedrooms. Half asleep I could hear my Ex yelling at me to get into the hallway. Thankfully he had gotten my son from bed and had him safe under the door jams in the hall.
I was stuck on the couch. It was bouncing up and down about a foot, foot and a half off the floor, so I grabbed onto the pillows and held on where I was. The power was out and everything was black, yet I could hear glass breaking and I envisioned every window blowing out. That is what it sounded like. It was SO loud ! It seemed to take forever, yet it was just under 2 minutes. You know what I thought of during it ? " Please God forgive me if this sofa goes through the ceiling and I land on the guy below us and kill him" Not fear that I would die, but sorrow because I knew I was going to land on him.
Then it was over. I was SO relieved and happy, we were OK ! The Ex yelled at me to hurry and get dressed as we had to get out of there. "What ? " I thought, " HELLO, we made it, we are safe ! " Then the rumbling started again and the apt swayed. I got dressed rather quickly.

We went outside, crawled over the bricks from the chimney that fell down from the house in front of us and went to the street to congregate with the neighbors and make sure those we knew were OK. Ex went to the neighbors to get the 50 gal. Piranha tank off of the man's bed ( only in LA, lol !! ) Thank goodness, I had called my Mother in Vegas before we left as the phones were down for three days . Cant imagine what she thought watching the news.
The scariest for me was not the Earthquake. I was half asleep and it was half over when I realized what it was. But the Aftershocks. Good Gosh, they were scary !! We were already tired, stressed and scared, and the radio warned us that what we had felt at 4:30 in the morning might have ONLY been a pre-shock to a Bigger earthquake. The odds lessen after 24- 72 hours. Lovely.......

I was out of cigarettes and had just gotten my "visit" and only had very MEAGER supplies. Had planned on going to the store in the morning. ( Pretty personal, but REALLY this stuff happens at the WORST times ! ) The stores were all closed because there was no power for hours. Also the gas stations were closed as well. So I walked down the street and "begged" from the only lady of child bearing age I knew for help. Luckily she was a Smoker also, and had "visitors", lol ! ( To those of you new to my blog, I have been smoke free for several years now, Praise to Jesus ! :) )My son and I were alone during most of the morning, as the Ex decided now was a GREAT time to go shoot some photo's. There are reasons why One becomes an Ex. :) We crawled in my car and waited out the aftershocks till he got back.

Then we finally went back into the house ( about 11 am ) and viewed the damage. There were big cracks around all of the windows. The fridge had fallen onto the counter and the contents broken and all over the floor. The Ex's Liquor supply had fallen out of the cabinets and was all over the floor, BROKEN. EWE ! The 32" TV we had was inches from where I had been on the sofa. It didn't hit me because the cable cord stopped it. Surprisingly only one antique plate I had on the walls fell off and broke. We had no Gas as the Ex turned ours, the downstairs apt and the front house off. ( Had to wait a few days till they could get out and turn it back on ) Glad he was cautious, as there were so many fires that day.
That was TRULY the scariest day in my life. My son and I left LA a week later to go stay with my mom for a few weeks as the aftershocks REALLY got to me. I had to drive almost to San Diego to get around the city as there were overpasses that had fallen down. A 5 hour drive, became a 9 hour drive. This was the Northridge Earthquake. Oddly as I type this, it occurred on Martin Luther King Day in 1994.

I could go on and on, and please forgive me for rambling so far, but I wont. Other than to say, what we went through is one tenth what is happening in Haiti right now. Please Pray and Donate to The American Red Cross for the Haitians right now.

Happy Pink Saturday. Thank you Miss Beverly, we appreciate you dear Lady !! :)

Hugs,

Rhea

p.s. The birdhouse was one I painted and sold on Ebay several years ago, and the two valentine baskets were gifts I made last year for two dear friends :)

36 comments:

Country Wings in Phoenix said...

Happy Pink Saturday Miss Rhea...
Sweetie, I read every word and was on the edge of my seat as I read. I cannot imagine the fear you must have gone through, and am so saddened as to what the people in Haiti are going through. We pray because they need so many prayers, and have made a small donation to the Red Cross for these people. It sounds like our country is helping in the aid for them, and for that I am most grateful.

Thank you for sharing your beautiful little baskets of love. They are absolutely precious. I love the little doll in her pink tutu. How precious is that?

Have a beautiful Saturday sweetie. Country hugs and much love, Sherry

Connie said...

I'm glad you're feeling well enough to post, sugar. Your roses just keep getting better and better as far as I'm concerned. Just beautiful.

Yep, I remember the earthquakes in California. That's the reason we left, sweetpea.

xoxo,
Connie

CC said...

Miss Rhea,
I was so nervous reading what you had gone through and loving in Texas,can't imagine an earthquake. I have been in and near tornados..but to feel the earth shake underneath my feet is a horror I can't imagine. My heart and my prayers are with the people in Haiti,and to everyone affected by the most horrific disaster.
I do love all your pink things..the little birdhouse is so sweet and the little baskets are adorable. Happy Pinks and I hopr your weekend is a good one.

SharDon Exclusives said...

I have only been in one small tremor here in Georgia and that was enough for me! I can not even begin to imagine what the Haitians are feeling right now. Our hearts ache for all of the devastation there. We will continue to pray for the souls who are survivors.

Rebecca Nelson said...

Girl...God has work for you to do. That is WHY you are still here...

Your work is beautiful my friend. Full of grace and passion.

Love, Rebecca

Tara said...

It sounds very scary. The biggest one I've been in was a 6 something and it wasn't very harsh, it was what they call a rolling earthquake verses a shaking one. I think it has to do with the way the plates shift. It is terrifying to think about the "big" one they all tell us is coming.
The people of Haiti are in my thoughts and prayers as they go through their struggles.

Thank you for sharing your experience with us and Happy Pink Saturday.

Joanne Kennedy said...

I remember that day too. While I felt it here in OC we did not have the damage like where you were. I just remember it because I worked for an insurance company then and some of the claims I got were mind blowing. Cars trapped under houses, buildings that you couldn't even tell what they were. How scary.

I've lived in CA my whole life and have never been scared of earthquakes but I always said if I were in one where the walls were falling or things in my house were crashing around me I'm sure I would feel different.

Hugs,
Joanne

Stephanie ~ Angelic Accents said...

Goodness, Rhea, how scary that was! Who but you could forage for "the necessities" and make it seem funny, tho!

Many prayers are being said for those poor frightened people.

Beautiful PINK pictures you shared!!
Happy PS!

Big TX Hugs,
Stephanie
Angelic Accents

jen said...

Rhea the Valentines Baskets are adorable! Earthquakes are no fun tornadoes weren't either! I have donated and am praying for those in Haiti. Hope your feeling better :) Have a lovely Pink Saturday!
luvs~jen

Jacalyn @ rmebathproducts.com said...

Can't imagine what that must be like! Thanksfully you're safe and hopefully the survivors in Haiti will get the help they need very soon!

Happy Pink Saturday,
Jacalyn

A Southern Rose said...

I was on the edge of my seat reading your post too. I am so glad that you and your fanily were not hurt .That is so scary! I've never been to Ca. mainly because I don't like flying and also have always heard about those earthquakes and never wanted to be around that. My ex's family is from Ca. and I never even met some of them because of that. I feel so bad for the people in Haiti. I have been glued to the t.v. also.


Take care,
Hugs,
Lee Laurie

P.S.I love that birdhouse. Beautiful!

Cora said...

I was so intrigued by your words that I had to go back a look at the pink photos after I finished reading your post. I can not even imagine what you went through, much less what they have went through in Haiti. I know you are a stronger person now...I can tell by reading your posts.
BTW...your pinks are beautiful!

Many prayers for Haiti...

Suzie Button said...

Rhea, what a story you have of living through an earthquake! The Haiti stories are too just so tragic and heartbreaking. Your pink pictures were a nice distraction for me. Happy Pink Saturday! Suzie

Kelee Katillac said...

Love your little baskets!

And yes to prayer for Haiti!

Stop by...love to see you!

love, kelee

Mary Bergfeld said...

I'm so glad you all emerged from the ordeal uninjured. you must have a special bond with the survivors of the Haiti quake.

Vicki said...

Oh, Rhea, I can only imagine how frightening this must have been for you and your family. I remember when that earthquake occurred and the devastation that followed. Thank goodness you were okay. Thank you also for remembering the folks in Haiti. I made my donation through the Red Cross, and I am praying for each and every one including all of those who have gone to help, rescue teams, military, etc. As always, I enjoyed seeing your pretty pinks!! Vicki

Ribbonwood Cottage said...

Good morning Rhea. I'm from S. Cal. and remember that earthquake all too well. My mother in laws handpainted china was broken in tiny bits everywhere and we shoveled china into 3 trashcans. Our family collects china...all of us. But the real horror was that I grabbed my baby girl and yelled at hubby to grab my 2 little guys, I got out first and watch the 2 story house sway dangerously back and forth...the absolute fear wondering if all my guys would get out...it was such panic. I know you know full well what these Haitian people are feeling. Donating is the least we can do....but their fear and panic will stay with them unfortunately.
Blessings,
Debbie
PS...I always enjoy your posts, always enjoy hearing about your latest project, seeing what you are up to. I hope your day is peaceful and blessed!

♥Mimi♥ said...

♫Happy Pink Saturday♫

Gloomy and gray over in my neck of the woods today so all of the pinks shared this Saturday are so special and cheerful. They remind me that there are more colors than just white, gray and black.Your pinks are wonderful! My goodness - so special☺

I cannot imagine an earthquake in my wildest dreams. The Haitian people are going through such misery now and I imagine it will only get worse as the days and weeks pass.

I hope your weekend is filled with sunshine surrounded by the laugher of those you love.

Please pray for the people of Haiti. May God bless each and every soul.

Betty said...

Oh my gosh Rhea! I remember that day well. We live in an area of California that barely feels the earthquakes here but that one made our house roll. I remember running to the hall between my living room and dining room where the pocket doors were. Dumb! I can't even imagine the devastation in Haiti. I pray for them and I pray that they will rebuild with an eye to the future. Nothing like that should ever happen again.

Unknown said...

Oh Rhea!
I can remember that FEAR. I was 5years old when Seattle had its BIG earthquake in I think 1964...and we were eating breakfast and Mom rushed us to the door frame for safety. That stays with you forever!

I too have been heartbroken over what has happened..but GOD is at work cause I have heard many stories of miracles and salvation! PTL that only HE can use a tradegy and turn those who need him desperatley to a life everlasting!

Come by and join my giveaway!

Hugs...Lorena

roseroomnz.com said...

Oh Rhea, that is quite a story, a terrifying story. We have many earthquakes in our country as we are on a major fault line but nothing compared to what you experienced and certainly nothing to what those poor souls in Haiti are going through.

Rachaelxo

Lib said...

Oh My! How terrible! So glad you were fine other than being shook up!
Its so heart breaking to watch the news about Haiti!
Have a Blessed wk.end!
Blessins',Lib

Tommie Jo said...

You are quite the artist! Someday I hope to find the time to learn to paint like that.

Anonymous said...

Praise the Lord you and your son got out safely and are here to tell us about it. Yes, the devastation in Haiti is so bad and I prayed a long time last night for those who are suffering. I thanked God for a roof over my head, for food, a family, for all the things He has given me. I even praised Him for the bad, for we are to praise Him in all things (sometimes hard, I know). Blessings to you for a good week - Sarita
sboyette@tx.rr.com

Anonymous said...

That was a scary story you just shared to us. I could never imagine what it would be like . . . to be able to experience such tragedy. Back in '91, the family on my Mom's side experienced such horrible fate as well. My cousins would tell me stories about it and that it was the most scariest experience they have to encounter - grounds moving and buildings collapsing. I only thought of it happening in the movies, but no, it was real. It was all real.

Now I fell awkward wishing you a Happy pink Saturday after a serious talk :-) But still, would like to say that your pink creations are so pretty and the birdhouse is just adorable as are the baskets of treats!

Mizpah,
Li

Jean Knee said...

so glad you are okay. I think often times we forget how lucky we are. thanks for reminding us. :)

Betty said...

That was so well written. What a scary time that must have been. I can only imagine what it must have been like in Haiti during the quake. Enjoyed your petty pinks!

GARAGE SALE GAL said...

Hi Rhea,
You are the first person I "know" that has live thru an earthquake. I found your post very interesting :)
Love your Valentine baskets and thought they were for sale! I'm sure your friends LOVED them! I DO!!
Warmly,
Deb :)

vickie said...

We are all saddened by what's happening in Haiti. I know exactly what you are talking about Miss Rhea, I was there during the Northridge earthquake. Hubby and I moved to TX from LA to get out of the area of earthquakes, went back to visit some friends and were there when it happened. Very scary. Anyway, Happy Pink Saturday, your birdhouse is gorgeous!

Sherry Williams said...

I am so glad God protected you during the earthquake in 1994. I know it had to be horrible to experience it. How awful for all the poor souls in Haiti...I just cannot imagine it.
Thank you again for letting me be one of the lucky friends that received one of those precious Valentine baskets..it is one of the prettiest & most treasured items that I own. It is perfect & I love it so much!!
Hugs, Sherry

Annette said...

Hi Rhea! Finally got my computer up and running, I missed my favorite blogs and so happy I can visit you again. My heart goes out to all the Haitians and all those who have loved ones that are still missing, it is so sad to watch and they are in my thoughts and prayers constantly.

I grew up in San Diego so I have been exposed to a few earthquakes, they are terrifying!

Love all your pretty pink goodies and your church from your earlier post is awesome, what a great find! Hugs, Annette

Jean Tuthill said...

Thanks for sharing your story...I lived in CA for a short time many years ago. No earthquakes though, thanks Heavens. I can't imagine what it must be like...so scary. I'm praying for the haitians, and gave a donation at my church last Sunday. I love your pink birdhouses and the little baskets, they are so cute.

Unknown said...

Thanks for your sweet comment. We were living in Pasadena that year...We didn't fair to bad, but those aftershocks...ugh!!

vivian said...

I just cant imagine. Weve felt little tremors here from small quakes in other areas. and that alone has freaked me out. I feel soooo bad for the people of haiti. thank god that we arent in the late 1800's early 1900's. There would be hardly anyway to get help to them.. at least not quickly. people wouldnt even know about it!
have a nice weekend.
oh.. and I just love those little doll valentine cups.. but I think I told you that before!
hugs
vivian

MARIA said...

My heart, my thoughts and prayers are with people in Haiti. It is horrible. My country has also hastened with the rescue.

OMG - your story - I can imagine. Thanks God you and your family are safe.

Love your very beautiful Artwork!
Thank you for sharing!

Have a blessed weekend!

Tammy @BeatriceBanks said...

Can't imagine experiencing that. Thankful you made it out ok. Praying for Haiti. We take for granted how blessed we are. Thanks for stopping by my blog. The porch is only my dream porch, thanks to a gracious RMS friend. Please visit me again in the future! Tammy