EXTREME RAINS? What does THAT EVEN look like? I have seen rain in Vietnam and there is nothing like it or at least that I had experienced before coming to VN. Not sure if I have been here when they called it "heavy" . But for sure I have not seen "extreme rain" as I see some news posts are forecasting for today's Typhoon Wutip.
| Typhoon of 2006 |
Reports predict this to be strongest Typhoon to hit since Xangsane in 2006. Predictions of winds 90-100KM.
But alas it seems like I will not see it this trip. I have chosen to withdraw, some would call it a retreat or maybe the best word is escape. I boarded a flight out of Danang last night. Skirting the oncoming Typhoon Wutip. Wutip is due to hit Central Vietnam Monday afternoon.
Reports predict this to be strongest Typhoon to hit since Xangsan (spelling?) in 2006. Predictions of winds 90-100KM. Fortunately for most I have gotten first reports that Wutip landed in Quang Binh, about 6 plus hours North of Danang. Good because it is much less populated then Danang.
By this morning (Monday) Tam is telling me that winds are picking up and rain is getting heavier but she says it is this afternoon that the severity will begin to be felt. I wish I could say this was a tough decision to cut my trip short by several days. But it was not.
Still praying for Central Vietnam and getting first reports now (I added these after first writing) is that the EXTREME rain has not come YEAH GOD so far...
At least at first it was not difficult. Until the bellmen said to me "you check out early because you afraid of typhoon." Not a question but statement. I had to wonder is he mocking me? Naw not me!!!
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I told the GIBTK team I thought of staying but realized they are more then adequate to handle any possible relief work, which may be needed. And that though it was painful for me to admit I realize I would only get in their way.
Tam bless her heart, told me in her "caring" voice; "I am glad your going home, I worry about you. Not because you would be in the way, but because I do not want you to get hurt. Often we have to walk through flood or mud and you my step on something and get hurt."
Nice huh? Unless you think of yourself as this tough guy who is here to rescue and fix problems. One thing this trip has been for me is showing I am powerless over so many things. Pink Eye epidemics, Agent Orange, disabling muscle disease and yes Typhoons.
| Thao and Hahn from flood reliefs in 2006, not sure if these 2 "toughies" need "my protection" |
I hate the part of leaving the team. I "think" I am here to protect these little girls and our new young man. What a joke. They live this stuff every day. As I left most told me to be careful and be safe! Yikes there is a strong typhoon headed towards your homes and families and "I should be careful?"
One tipping point to my decision is returning to see my family. Especially to see my daughters basketball game. Have I told you she plays "like a boy?" lol; She told me "it's ok daddy, I understand that you have to miss the game." But later she asked what time my flight arrives in hopes I could still make it.... Breaks my heart to miss games but not this one!
I will be home by the time you read this (or at least hope so barring weather delays). I plan to surprise my wife and kids. To just knock on the door. They're expecting me on Thursday. But I will arrive Monday.
| This GIBTK core is still with us and ready for Wutip |
The GIBTK team is here to take care of emergency needs as well as all the rest of our work. They are great and this past 2 months has seen a major turnover in our team. We have only 5 who have been with us for more then a year. Long time team members Diem and Huong have left as has Linh, Anh le, Hoang, and Thu. Fortunately we have had a number a young and great new team members join us. I am excited to see this new era of GIBTK!
| As is trusty long time GIBTK driver Mr Giao is ready to work his way through to help if need be |
I will let you know if the needs come in for Typhoon relief. You may send a prayer up. Stay tuned for any needs that may arise.
Still praying for Central Vietnam and getting first reports now (I added these after first writing) is that the EXTREME rain has not come YEAH GOD so far.. Fortunately for most I have gotten first reports that Wutip landed in Quang Binh, about 6 plus hours North of Danang. Good because it is much less populated then Danang.
Still praying for Central Vietnam and getting first reports now (I added these after first writing) is that the EXTREME rain has not come YEAH GOD so far..
I'd like to once again announce the quickly approaching Gala; "Journey of Hope" ; Oct. 19th at Harborside Restaurant. This is our only major fundraiser. A majority of our operating costs come from this event. So far the count is not what we hoped. Tell a friend or hey why not come? If you can't join us perhaps you are able to donate. It can be done online securely at www.gibtk.org or you can mail your donation to our address 10112 Stonybrook Dr. HB, Calif. 92646.
My wife Dorothea (I hope she does not get mad that I surprised her) and her Gala team are in need of live and silent auction items. I'm sure volunteers are also needed.
Thanks for your time, your prayers and encouragement. I will be in touch if this typhoon is as bad as some predict.
><((((º> BBlessed
Robert Kalatschan
online donations can be given at www.gibtk.org
Thank you!!!!
