Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Tohoku Earthquake 2011

Last March 11, 2011~ a 9.0 magnitude earthquake that ever recorded has taken many lives of people living in Japan. Many are homeless, injured persons and some are still missing. For those who lost their families and friends, may their souls rest in peace. My heart goes to them...Words cannot describe how terrible I feel for Japan, it breaks my heart to think of the towns I've visited before were simply washed away by the tsunami...so sad... It's devastating to see all that has happened and the destruction left behind. It's been a month since the 3-11 earthquake but it feels like yesterday to me....



March 11, 2011 ~ Friday

I started my day as usual: waked up early in the morning, cooked breakfast and made bentou for my husband and went to my morning duty for a 'hata toban'. I went out with a yellow flag as a cross guard and spent 30 to 40 minutes at the cross walk until 15 to 30 children leave the neighborhood for school. Then did my laundry after, cleaned the house and dropped Haruka to school before 9 am. Hours later, wrote an entry to my Friday favourite meme and bloghopped for awhile. It is a routine for me to do bloghopping when the kids are at school, it's one of my 'Me time'.

Picked up Haruka before 2:00 PM at school and went home early without letting her play after school coz my kids will be picked up by their Grandfather for a sleepover at their home in Namie for the weekend. 35 minutes later, Wakaba came with her project from school and as we're gladly looking at her drawings, we could feel the shaking in our apartment and thought that it was just the usual short earthquakes but it wasn't..the shaking was so violent and long. Though we have experienced an earthquake simulation before during an event, I have never experienced a strong earthquake before here in Japan and panicked for 'twas real! It felt like a lifetime to me. I guess Japanese are well trained on what to do when earthquake strikes coz after I shouted " jishin! " or the earthquake, Wakaba and Haruka went under the table and both of them seemed so calm unlike me. It felt to me like our apartment was on a railway car that was being pushed back and forth on it's rails. It was scary, terribly scary! The moving was violent, shaking and the things were falling all over and was afraid that our HDTV would tip over so I hold it but 'twas rocking from side to side and I'm also losing my balance!



The earthquake was long, felt danger inside the apartment and called my kids to run outside, Wakaba runs first, then me holding the hands of Haruka. Friends in the neighborhood were also outside and couldn't help but worry constantly. I didn't even noticed that we're on our barefoot until a friend told us so. Minutes later my husband came, still with his white uniform on ( he's a radialogist ) and was relieved after seeing us outside. He went up to the apartment to get some blankets, some food and checked if we have running water but there was none and hurriedly went to the nearest conveniece store to buy some food and bottled water to drink. My husband came back with a few snacks in hand--he said that the convenience store were all cleared of all food. We don't have power, gas and communications were knocked out! We were given sandwiches and bread to eat for the night and gave them our bananas in return. Blessings! Don't know why but tears came falling down...Things aren't looking so good but hopefully something will work out for us...with God's help.



We decided to spend the night inside the car although the kids would feel uncomfortable but being inside the car is safer rather than spending a night inside the apartment which is on a second floor. Every once in a while, an aftershock would strike and it really scares the hell out of me, we could feel the ground shaking. Me and my husband watched the news inside the car and was shocked! Little did I know that a tsunami washed away Tohoku! Sendai is a favorite place of ours, Namie Machi is our second home, Onahama Machi is 10 km away from us. God, please help Tohoku!



Next day, we checked inside our apartment and this is what we saw....

Our wooden clothes cabinet, toy storage have fallen down Our desktop has moved backward, fallen down Dishes rattled We're still getting constant tremors inside our apartment that lead us to run outside every once in a while. All forms of communications were knocked out Watching the news over the navigation screen Wakaba and Haruka sleeping inside the car


March 12, 2011 ~ Saturday

We had our gas and electricity back and immediately cooked rice then made onigiri ( rice balls ) for breakfast and cooked curry for large batches that will fill our stomach for a couple of days. We've got no running water but luckily, I didn't throw the water that was being used during our ofuro( bath tub)~ it helped us a lot on flushing our toilet. What we didn't have running water and a kerosene to fill our heater but we have our blanket to warmth us. My husband went to collect water at a water station/delivery services run by the local government. He brought with him some jars and lined up for 4 hours to get water.

Little did I know 'bout the nuclear accident at Fukushima Nuclear Plant~ I never thought that three disasters could happen at the same time in one country... The government is asking the people to leave for those who are living 20 km( danger zone) near the plant. Us, ( living 40 km) however instructed to stay indoors. My SIL's house is 15 km and my PIL's house is 20 km from the plant. Worried, really worried about them but we can't use any source of communication. No phone, no internet!

What really shocked me was the convenience stores were all cleared of all food!

March 13, 2011 ~ Sunday~

My Mama tomo ( Japanese friend mum) came with a plastic bag that's full of cup soup, instant soup, cup ramen and tuna can. What a blessing! She asked me if there's something anything else we need~ I feel so blessed with generous friends!



Another blessing! Our neighbor brought us some snacks for the kids, we gave them our few bottled water in return. I'm so blessed to be here~ friends, residents help each other in time of need. I'm so grateful!



March 14, 2011 ~ Monday~

I went early to get some water~ good thing that the water station is giving water 24 hours, there's only a few people getting water, no loong lines and went smoothly and filled up my jar with water and when I was on my way to get home, saw cars lined up through the gasoline station. Little did I know that some drivers waited all day for just a few litres of gasoline.
Went to the nearest supermarket to buy drinking water~ stores forbid customers to buy one box (12pcs, 1000ml) of bottled water per person and luckily bought for us. Even at supermarkets were cleared of all food~ I was afraid that supplies would soon dry up.

Called to my Mom in the Philippines at the supermarket's phone box~ she cried upon hearing my voice, I wanted to convey to her that we're all safe and sound but she can't help but get worried most especially about the radiation threat. I told her we've got enough gasoline just in case the government warn us to evacuate the area...



March 15, 2011~ Tuesday



My husband went out to look for food but to his dismay, all the stores were all closed. I went out to check for other stores and looked around. The surroundings were different and it looks like a ghost town--no people, no nothing!
to be continued....
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Here's some things that you should have on hand just in case there is an earthquake. These includes foods, waters, flashlights and radio with batteries, wet tissues, plastic/food wrap or a cling wrap and aluminum foil. There is, of course, no guarantee that nothing will happened, but try to be prepared.

An idea to save water~ cover plates with wraps before putting the food on then peel the wrap off and disgard it after eating to save much water. Believe me, food wraps helps a lot! Quakes can be very terrifying, but we have to be prepared for them. Let’s do the best we can.


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*Nostalgia is a weekly Thursday meme hosted by Ate Rose--please play with us by clicking the linky badge.* Photobucket



40 comments:

peachkins said...

Teary-eyed na naman ako upon reading your post...We're just so glad that you're safe.Thank God!

Dean and Lee Schroeder said...

My husband woke me up from my slumber. He said that I should watch the news about Japan. It was really scary while watching the news. Very terrifying and very sad that it happened - the earthquake, tsunami and the radiation from the nuclear plant. Japan is one of the country I want to visit someday.

I pray for all your safety. I did my special prayers after watching the news. Hope everyone is okay, Mommy Clarissa. God will provide for the things you need. I salute your neighbors and friends for being so good to your family. God bless their hearts. That with the calamity that all the Japanese people are facing, people tends to support one another. That nobody is greedy and bad. God bless all the people in Japan who are affected by the calamity. May your hearts and emotional wounds will be swept away with full of God's blessing.

Unknown said...

ohhhh... your experience there is really scary and thank God despite it you are alive and fine...
hoping that things will be back to its proper places and that it wont happen again...

God Bless you and your family...

http://everyday-is-a-new-day-vhen.blogspot.com/2011/04/nostalgiagreenhills.html

Cecile said...

that was an scary experienced, Clang...am glad it is over now and you are all safe! we are still praying for all that are badly affected by the earthquake and tsunami :-/

Chubskulit Rose said...

Seeing haruka and wakaba sleeping in the car made me cry Clang.. That was really a terrible experience for you guys. I am so glad that all of you are safe. I hope and pray that Japan will soon recover from the devastation of the earthquake and tsunami. Welcome back!

The Book of Shadows (The Dark Side) said...

My hubby was asking me about you.. and I was so mad at myself for forgetting your URL link.. I remembered you because you are the only blogger I know who mentioned you are in Japan..

I am so glad to read your post now, knowing you are safe.. :) *HUG*

God will watch over you and your family.. I have been thinking about you so hard and now that I found you back, I am going to put your link up in my Tingtasy blog.. that way, at least, I know, I will never lost you in the cyber world again..

I thank God you and your family are safe.. *HUUUUGGG*

Cielo of Brown Pinay said...

As a Mom...I cried seeing your little angel sleeping in your car...As a parent we would do everything to protect them, but there are times that we can only do as much. Be safe always! and be strong for your kids...

The Book of Shadows (The Dark Side) said...

I read your whole post again, for the 3rd time.. I can't help but am really touched that at least, you, someone I know is safe.. I can understand why your mum was in tears.. The news were all over and yes, it even said there was a wipe-out of food.. milks, biscuits, it is like nothing much left..

Whatever it is, I certainly hope and pray that all will be well and fine soon.. We are watching the news and is praying for you and your family, in fact, everyone in Japan... *HUUUUGGG*, again...

WAHMaholic said...

mommy clang, i admire you because you stayed strong for your family all throughout the ordeal. you are truly a model mother that all we other moms should all look up to.

i also feel proud for wakaba and haruka because they are such sweet kids and must have helped a lot in lessening your stress during this period. i'm just really really glad (and i know i keep saying this over and over) that you and the fam are safe.

i think that with you and the fam together, no harm could come to you because you are a very strong unit.

i hope the tremors eventually disappear for good in the coming days, para naman hindi ka na masyado magworry. love you mommy clang! kiss from svet and me. Mwah!

Mel_Cole said...

Naiyak ako habang bumasa sa post mo Mam Clang. I'm glad you are all safe there but to know that you experienced a violent earthquake is really worrisome. I wish I could do something, but do let me know. I will keep you in my prayers.

Shengkay said...

Hi mommy clarrisa! thanks GOD you and your family is now okay. Teary eyed din ako..hehhe..
I have friend na anjan din sa barko sya nagwork. BUti na lang during tsunami nasa kalagitnaan sila ng dagat.
nakakalungkot talaga yung pangyayari na yun.
Anyways, happy seeing you again in blogosphere.

Mrs.D said...

oh my gosh, mamiClang...I am speechless....it is so sad looking at your photos....hope you guys are doing well...lalo na ang mga bata...sana wala silang traumatic experience....are they back to school yet? btw, am just wondering kung may postal service naba jan....I have something here kasi na gusto ko ipadala sa inyo...miss you mamiClang...hugs and kisses from us...mwah!

Verna Luga said...

shortly after the news broke clang grabe di ako pumasok sa school nanood lang ng TV.. I had goosebumps really jud.

teary-eyed naman ako habang bumabasa, i even ask Rose one time if she had contact with you kasi you've been communicating.. nung nagpost sa FB si Mommy Seiko that you're alright daw.. thank goodness... My heart goes for the two kids... kasi umuulan pa ng yelo di ba?

paano pag sa pinas nangyari... tabing dagat kami.. thanks for the tip.

Karen Chayne said...

My heart breaks and I also got teary eyed when I read your post Mommy Clang. But I thanked the Lord for the guidance and protection for you and your family.

Mirage said...

Mommy Clang, I'm glad in a way that you showed us what's really there...sometimes the news could be exaggerated, sometimes less, it's always good to see it from firsthand experience...

My heart still aches until now, do stay strong!

anne said...

You know what sis, when I saw the earthquake in TV, I first thought about you because I was just reading your FTF entry. I am so glad you are safe.

Stef said...

I admire your presence of mind and braveness> Let's continue to pray for everyone's safety. Hope you can also check out my NOSTALGIC entry. Thanks!

Rechie said...

i am crying while reading your post sis Clarissa. i could feel how scared you were lalo pa't may mga bata that you had to protect. it sure was a very scary experience. kami nga rito sa Pinas sobrang takot nung malaman maapektuhan kmi ng tsunami kaw pa kaya na you felt the earthquake talaga.

Mommy Jes said...

so sad sis....nakaka traume siguro ang experience nto...alam mo bang nsa NARITA airport kme nung nangyare to and GOSH naramdaman ko ang nakakatakot n SHAKE ng earthquake!!! 3 beses sunod sunod n nakkasuka! nakakhilo! at wala kong kamalay malay n grabe pla ang nangyare ng araw n un....kabado lang ako that time kasi nga na stranded kame pero pag uwi ko ang dami n pla nag aalala sakin dhil nagkataon p n andun kme nung oras n un...nsa loob n kme ng plane that time, boarding....Thanks God at okay ang family mo sis....God is really good! SAna naway makaraon dn ang mga nasalanta ng tsunami..GOD BLESS us!

mommy Orkid Belle said...

I am teary-eyed while reading your blog about the disaster that you guys had to go through. I pray for your safety and to those people who lost their lives, may they rest in peace. God Bless!

It's horrifying to know about what happened to Japan. My husband and I were watching the news and on the internet and it's scary and my heart goes to all the people that are affected in Japan. God Bless!

gengen said...

Nako sorry to hear all of this. Will pray for it..God bless...

kat said...

Graveh! You made me cry. I can relate because I was in Manila when earthquake struck in 1991. Kakaawa ang mga kids mo, natulog tuloy sa car. I hope everything is okay now Clang.

Thanks anyway sa Nostagic comment.

Lynn said...

That was really heart breaking. Glad to know that you're all safe.

Cens World said...

It is good the know that you and your family are safe. What happened in Japan is sad and the every one is wishing for the early recovery of this nation from this tragedy.

Mel_Cole said...

I am visiting back Mam Clang. Thanks for visiting me po. Been busy for Easter here kaya ngayon lang nakapag-blog hop uli. Praying for you.

nuts said...

I worried a lot about you during those days, everytime, I check my FB, i always headed on your status to see if you're ok.. I admire your two little pretties who stayed very calm during those shaking moments. Gosh, napanood ko lahat sa YouTube and keep praying for Japan. I couldn't imagine if if happened when you're kids are at school, or not around with you. God is good all the time, keeping you safe from all the trembling moments.. Sigh.
Keep safe always! God Bless!

lina@women's perspectives said...

Glad to know that your family is safe. Hope everything there will recover soon. Be strong and safe!

jeng said...

Sorry for the late visit for Nostalgia. It really breaks my heart to see pictures or hear stories from that quake that hit Japan. I'm praying that the Japanese would be able to recover soon. Stay safe always.

Yami said...

Hanga ako sa dalawang anak mo Clang. Normally, mga bata ang unang magpa-panic sa mga ganyang pagkakataon, but it turned out sila pa ang kalmado. So proud of you too Clang for staying strong for your family.

Azumi's Mom ★ said...

ATE CLANG HUGS****

Habang binabasa ko to, nagflashback mga nangyari. It was so fast no, after ilang minute lang ng earthquake, ang dami cities ang nabura sa mapa. It was really devastating, sinabayan pa ng pagsabog ng nuclear plant malapit sa inyo. Praise the Lord dahil kahit papaano, we are spared from the devastating calamities. Maski papaano, we survived. Thank you Lord talaga dahil safe kayo. You dont know how worried we were nung di ka naman ma-contact.

ANyway, ingat kayo palagi and lets continously pray na sana wala na darating na mas grabe pa sakuna.

Mel Avila Alarilla said...

Could not help but cry when I read your post Clarissa. One would think that what you related was great material for a novel, only they were all true. Could not help but sympathized with every ordeal you and your family and your town folks went through. But in the aftermath of Japan's tragedy were golden nuggets of love and caring exhibited by the beautiful people of Japan. And I know that Japan will emerge stronger and more resilient after this tragedy. The prayers of the whole world are sent to Japan. You have such a great style of writing and you were able to paint a great panorama of what transpired during those terrible days. I am still praying for you and your family and for the whole of Japan. Thanks for the moving post. God bless you all always.

Chubskulit Rose said...

Nangangamusta lang Clang, hope all is well.

Shynn said...

hi, clarissa. i happened to visit ur site and read about the earthquake experience that u and ur family had. i felt so sorry for all the victims and their families. i also had a blog about 'run for japan' that i joined to help. u can also visit my site http://shynn-dogoodfeelgood.blogspot.com/

by the way, i also would like to share some tips on what to do during earthquakes. lots of people had misconceptions until now on how to be safe. I am now finishing a blog about it and hope u have time to visit my blog soon. thanks. always be safe!

joei ♥ said...

Thanks for sharing this with us. And for the tips. I hope this doesn't happen anywhere again :(

Anyway, Im deleting my links and we'll be using my followers as reference for blogs to visit daily. Follow each other? :)

Definitely, Maybe

Eric Graham said...

This is horrifying. I feel sorry for what had happen to Japan. There are many lives were lost during the calamity. Will send prayers for full recovery on Japan especially to your family.

God bless.

Eric

Cens World said...

The earthquake was really sad. I dropped by with a hope of cheering you though. Just a simple greeting of Happy Mothers Day :-)

Chubskulit Rose said...

Just wishing you a happy mother's day Clang, hope everything is getting better with you guys. Enjoy your day1

♥FreakyehS♥ said...

My heart saddened remembering the 3-11, and watching your kids who were probably exhausted because do have much rest. Im glad that incident is over now and you guys are back on your feet. Late visit here clang. Belated Happy Mothers day

Clarissa said...

Thank you for a very warm comments and prayers for me and my family and most especially praying for Japan.God is good to us, he spared us from the devastating tsunami that strucked at the seashore line in Onahama which is 15 minutes drive from us.We are still dealing the the mess of the nuclear plant,I hope that you still continue for the people of Fukushima and Tohoku.

Thank you very much!

anney said...

Grabe talaga ang ngyari sa Japan. Nakakalungkot isipin na marami ang namatay. Kami nga din dito biglang nag stock ng food. Minsan nga napa- paranoid ako pag nasa beach. Lagi ko naiisip, ano kaya at magka tsunami. Kakatakot talaga.

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