July 16, 2006

The State Department

updates its website every 24 hours. So we keep checking it every couple hours and it's the same useless message.

I just got this e-mail from a friend:


> Jane,
>
> Just wanted to touch base as I saw that they are
> evacuating Lebanon.
>
> Hope you're ok. Write back soon.
>

My response:
Really? They're evacuating Lebanon. It would be nice if they let us know. We can't even call them; the line's always busy. So my parents are talking to them in the U.S. And then I pass on that information (which is nothing) to the other Americans I know.

They say they're working on getting us transportation to Cyprus. But getting on a boat full of Americans doesn't seem like a wise move either right now.

I really, really, really appreciate all your prayers, especially about decision making. I go with my gut on most things. This morning my gut told me not to get in that taxi with some American friends who hopefully are now in Syria. My gut told me not to go with my Lebanese friend yesterday to Syria.

Oh wait, and I still don't have a passport, which would be a big problem if I went through Syria.

My dad just called. I saw a red flash/star and then heard the loud, billowing, echo boom when I was on the phone with him. He heard it too. He asked how far away I am from that. . .15 kilometers about. Is that close? I guess. He thinks so. You saw the pictures. I'm up on the mountain, looking over Beirut. I can regularly hear fireworks. I can see and hear everything.

And then my dad asked about the power station. I kind of forgot about that. But there is one in Aley, and the Israelis did bomb it in 92, I think, but I need to check on that.

It's 2:43 a.m. Maybe I'm going crazy now. I should go to bed. Please pray.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Jane-
We are praying that you have wisdom to choose the best way out, as well as safety. Keep us posted!

Anonymous said...

"I wouldn't leave, if it wasn't for my mother and father and I guess my siblings and others, who would really freak out if I didn't take this boat when I had the chance."

Yeah....what would be the reasons for staying? Everyone just wants you to be safe. That's the thing Charlie was talking about, about not doing anything stupid. I think staying would fit into that category. Don't you? Never mind- don't answer that.
Love you, Dekey

Anonymous said...

Hey girl-

Wanted to let you know that Maddie and I were thinking about you and wish you a safe return. And even though you might feel like you are losing it, which is probably an understatement, I am glad to know that you are at least physically okay...lots of people, mainly civilians, have been killed. Thanks for keeping everyone posted.

I just checked the State Department website and noticed that there was some ridiculous comment about "working over the weekend" to resolve the situation - gee, is that asking too much? Sorry - perhaps I am being a little cynical - but really?!? I thought that was part of their job...anyways, it looks like Monday by boat to Cyprus is probably your best bet.

I know I don't have to tell you to be careful or safe - that's a given. I will tell you that you are loved and missed and very much worried about. And, of course, you are in our thoughts and prayers. We know you will be home soon.

All our love, Kathy and Maddie

Anonymous said...

hi jane,

i hope you choose the right way to evacuate and keep us updated on what is going on. please be careful and molina and i miss you very very much. come back soon so we can have some arandas tacos....
love,
aida