Barney Rubble
In case some of you think that I have killed Bob in his sleep and that's why he never posts, think again. He's sitting right beside me in repose (his words) and assisting me in this blog. Think of it as a joint effort, even though it will say "Posted by Mel" at the end (and have good grammar). But the Lieutenant is all over this one.
We have made our way south to Bang Tao beach on the island of Phuket. "Phuket?" you may be wondering. "Wasn't that one of the areas hit by the tsunami?" Yes, astute reader! It was! That's actually why we're here; Bob got us hooked up with a group called United Volunteers (read more about the project or make a donation at www.handsonthailand.org) and we've been assisting with clean-up and rebuilding in this part of the island for the past two days.
The work cannot be called glamorous, and we find ourselves constantly wishing for a Bobcat. It mainly involves clearing out large amounts of rubble (hence the title) so that rebuilding is possible. It's okay, though, because even though the work is dull, it's hot enough to fry anyone's brain. Fluid replacement is a constant, uphill battle.
Bob has made our task infinitely easier by concocting a device called "Rag on a Stick," which many of you know as a "mop" or a "broom." Bob ingeniously scavenged a towel from amongst the rubble and secured it with loose cable wiring to a two by four. He pushes this cleaning implement along with a sledgehammer, and it's proved so effective that other groups have asked to borrow it! Of course, NONE of these shenanigans would be necessary if we had access to a pushbroom.
Yesterday we went by a business that our organization is looking to repair/rebuild and took down measurements and made a general assessment of what they need. We're hoping that we might be able to help rebuild there, and thus have a "project" for our 2-3 weeks here, but as of now, materials, permits, and such are tied up in red tape.
We are lucky to have some really cool people in our group, all other Americans (and all are New Yorkers). One couple is living in Singapore at the moment; the guy reminds me of my cousin Ben (which results in no end of antics) and uses the name "Captain Lazy Pants" as his e-mail address, so he's pretty entertaining. Our Team Leader is taking a year off from Stanford to study Chinese in Taiwan (he has family there, but his last name is Olarski. Go figure), and another guy is an ethnic Thai who grew up in Atlanta and is a fellow Dawg! We manage to have a good time and good conversation, and it makes the work go by more quickly (but results in lengthier water breaks).
The Thais in the area have been nothing but friendly and helpful. We receive many complimentary meals (which please the World's Cheapest Couple to no end) and practically trip over all of the bottled water provided for us. So, if you're worrying about our staying healthy, don't (Yes, Moms, there is a paramedic on staff 24/7). The worst thing that could happen is a sunburn, and they even give us sunscreen when we need it.
We plan on being here for two weeks minimum, so if we don't get around to posting, this is where we are. Much love to everyone back home. Go Patriots!
We have made our way south to Bang Tao beach on the island of Phuket. "Phuket?" you may be wondering. "Wasn't that one of the areas hit by the tsunami?" Yes, astute reader! It was! That's actually why we're here; Bob got us hooked up with a group called United Volunteers (read more about the project or make a donation at www.handsonthailand.org) and we've been assisting with clean-up and rebuilding in this part of the island for the past two days.
The work cannot be called glamorous, and we find ourselves constantly wishing for a Bobcat. It mainly involves clearing out large amounts of rubble (hence the title) so that rebuilding is possible. It's okay, though, because even though the work is dull, it's hot enough to fry anyone's brain. Fluid replacement is a constant, uphill battle.
Bob has made our task infinitely easier by concocting a device called "Rag on a Stick," which many of you know as a "mop" or a "broom." Bob ingeniously scavenged a towel from amongst the rubble and secured it with loose cable wiring to a two by four. He pushes this cleaning implement along with a sledgehammer, and it's proved so effective that other groups have asked to borrow it! Of course, NONE of these shenanigans would be necessary if we had access to a pushbroom.
Yesterday we went by a business that our organization is looking to repair/rebuild and took down measurements and made a general assessment of what they need. We're hoping that we might be able to help rebuild there, and thus have a "project" for our 2-3 weeks here, but as of now, materials, permits, and such are tied up in red tape.
We are lucky to have some really cool people in our group, all other Americans (and all are New Yorkers). One couple is living in Singapore at the moment; the guy reminds me of my cousin Ben (which results in no end of antics) and uses the name "Captain Lazy Pants" as his e-mail address, so he's pretty entertaining. Our Team Leader is taking a year off from Stanford to study Chinese in Taiwan (he has family there, but his last name is Olarski. Go figure), and another guy is an ethnic Thai who grew up in Atlanta and is a fellow Dawg! We manage to have a good time and good conversation, and it makes the work go by more quickly (but results in lengthier water breaks).
The Thais in the area have been nothing but friendly and helpful. We receive many complimentary meals (which please the World's Cheapest Couple to no end) and practically trip over all of the bottled water provided for us. So, if you're worrying about our staying healthy, don't (Yes, Moms, there is a paramedic on staff 24/7). The worst thing that could happen is a sunburn, and they even give us sunscreen when we need it.
We plan on being here for two weeks minimum, so if we don't get around to posting, this is where we are. Much love to everyone back home. Go Patriots!
5 Comments:
umm... so a few things. 1) I don't know what this contest people keep talkinga about is, but I also vote for Bob (no offense Mel, if you are even a contestant) 2) A plague on both your houses for supporting the Patriots, as I can only assume it was YOUR support that gave them their victory and somehow tricked the Eagles in to running out the entire clock when they still had a good chance to win. 3) I would like to echo the following sentiment of Auntie M: GO ILLINI. 4) Good for you guys on the cleanup effort. And finally, 5) Am I the only one who is entertained by the name Phuket? You know, cause it sounds like... nevermind. I guess this is not a tragedy-appropriate joke. Keep on truckin', 'O Great Travellers.
-The Kolsk
To add on to Auntie M. and The Kolsk GO ILLINI!!! Phuket sounds like a Phuking good time (Sorry had to do it) On a serious note though, you two are great for doing this on your trip, will you be able to sight see as well as work??? Well I vote for Bob because Bob doesn't win all that much, J/K. I'm sure you'll do fine Mel.
Elder
Mel and Bob,
Glad to hear you're in Phuket and able to help out with the relief efforts. I'm sure this will be something you will remember for the rest of your lives.
You should try and get one of the Thai massages they're famous for over there. That'll certainly relax those weary bones.
All is about the same here. I have to be in Mobile, AL tomorrow and Thursday on business.
Kathy said to tell you hello and to keep having fun.
Take care...
Gene and Kathy Gibson (Tuesday, 9:07 PM)
Mel and Bob, I agree with all the above comments and am proud of you two and your willingness to help out. I'm glad to hear there is a paramedic available in case there are any mishaps. Mel, Kate and I got your package and I love the wraps you sent. I wore the pink paisley one to book club and got several compliments. Even though you are working hard I know you are glad to be in one place for awhile. Do you get any time off to go to the beach? Keep up the good work and know that we love you bunches. Momma Julianne
Yes, dittos on the good works over there. Unlike Mom and Kate, I did not get any wraps from you. I did eat alone in a restaurant last nite, though. All alone. With no wrap or nothin'.
More stories to follow via separate post. Love ya', Bubs
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