Day One

Spent this morning using a mop and squeegy to deal with water leaks
from ongoing rain but the sky finally cleared by noon.
Headed into Castries to find that Royal Bank ATM is out of order so I
would have to make due with the cash I had brought down.
At Mega Js found tuna and lentils by the case but no rice.  Headed to
Gablewood and bought rice and oats.  Out of money at this point.
Sandra and I spoke several times and had arranged that I would meet
Sylvanus in Castries, however by the time I had all the goods
organized he had already headed back to Anse La Raye with a full van.
Darn.
Trying to arrange to meet him in Marigot tomorrow to hand over goods
and water purification tablets.
Spoke to one of our mentoring ladies this morning when I call car
company to cancel van.  She now lives in Canaries but has been able to
get up to work for several days now.  She reports that the road is at
less than 50% and that they have to get out and walk through the water
at one of the bridges in Anse La Raye.
The car company has no 4 wheel drive vehicles right now but maybe by
later in the week.  Will have to keep checking in.
I have heard that there are plans to move heavy equipment up to the
dam by helicopter as the roads are impassable and the need is
immediate.  Real concern that if there is another heavy rainfall, the
whole dam may let go.  Let's hope they can move quickly on this.
There was no water in any of the shops that I visited today and
limited amounts of any beverages.  Here at Coubaril we boil the water,
cool it, then refrigerate.  This is fine for 2 people but is not a
good solution for many more.
Sandra reported today that our water was offered to everyone but many
complained that it was too far to carry it back.  This is, of course,
true.  There are several areas nearby where water is flowing down from
above in new mini-waterfalls.  She said folks are using this source
for washing and bathing.
A friend called today and excited announced he had been able to
purchase a fresh chicken and wants to share it.  Several other folks
are coming over for a sort of pot luck.  I just hope by then I will
have been able to hand over all the food that is currently filling the
trunk of Aunt Pat's car.  They could be enjoying a community 1 pot
tomorrow night.
I asked Sandra to find out how many houses are in the village - 62.
Wow.  I would have guessed no more than 40.  It is obvious I will have
to do some more exploring.  She has included everyone around the bend
towards Castries as well.  To be fair, the first load of food will be
distributed to every household.  Once I can spend some time in the
village, it will be easier to tell where the greatest need is and who
needs help the most.
Word has come that Cannaries will combine the 2 schools in the Primary
School temporarily as it had less damage.  Hoping to speak with Simona
directly soon to get more first hand information.
Blessings to all;
Auntie Shel