Shaken awake

So, I was sleeping so nicely and soundly when a rather large earthquake/aftershock woke my ass up at 10:34 PM.  When I opened my eyes, I knew exactly what was happening, because the bed was shaking and the mirror attached to my dresser was shaking loudly.  Luckily, Jude was in bed with me, and I covered him with pillows, just in case.  It was much shorter than the big one on Friday, but probably the strongest aftershock we've felt since.  Also, the epicenter was much, much closer than the ones before.

Here is a map of the epicenter courtesy of JMA:

My heart rate shot up and that fight or flight instinct kicked in again.  Husband came into the room as it was happening.  Just as soon as he stepped into the room, thankfully, everything stopped shaking.

I must admit I'm still startled and my anxiety levels are quite high.  I don't think I'll be going to bed for a while, so I decided to blog.

I know this useless blog is a good way for you to get updates on us, but writing about our situation seems to be good therapy for me.  And, it's a good way for me to chronicle what's going on for Jude.  Someday I'm sure he'll read this and fully understand why I am the way I am.

So, as I sit here writing, I just want to thank you for all of your love, support and concern.  I didn't realize how many people care about us!  It's heartwarming to know so many of you are thinking of us and concerned about our situation.

I am also updating often on Facebook.  So, if you know me, you know I have been keeping you up-to-date as information becomes available.  I will try to continue doing that, so you won't worry.

I know you are seeing all kinds of horrific images on the news, but we are far away from the devastation up North.  And, we are about 40 miles away from Tokyo Bay.  So, there is no need to worry about a tsunami impacting us.

However, we are watching the nuclear reactors.  Our air is being tested often, and currently it is safe.  If things change, I will let you know.

As a precaution, I did go out and buy several large rolls of Duct Tape.  If I have to shelter in place, I will be able to seal off all windows and vents from the outside.  I also have large plastic trash bags I can use to cover the windows and vents.  Thus, keeping our apartment free from radiation in the air.

So, again, I've taken a preemptive strike to protects us from what may lie ahead.  Remember, I am my father's child!

I have seen the news and am aware that several foreign companies are now evacuating their employees.  As of right now, there are NO indications that there is a need for us to evacuate.  If the need arises, I know the powers that be will get us out of here.  If we are evacuated, I can be packed and ready in 5 minutes.  I'm not sure where they would send us, though, but I would certainly tell you as the information becomes available to me, but I  don't think it will come to that.

Again, we are okay, just shaken, literally!

But, as I sit here and blog, my pulse is getting back to normal and my anxiety level is going down.  I am starting to feel normal again.  (Okay, we all know I'm not normal, but at least now my heart isn't going to explode out of my chest!)

It's 12:33 AM.  I could turn on the TV, but all I see is death, destruction and a catastrophe like I've never seen before.  Remember, I've been through hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, but I've never seen anything like this, and I hope I never see it again!  The level of destruction up North is unbelievable, unfathomable.  I'm just glad Sister moved away when she did, because she used to live up north.  (She now lives in Kuwait.)

So, I'll continue to keep you updated.

And, as of right now, we are okay! I'm scared, but prepared.