Thursday, January 13, 2011

Flood Update and Thank-you


We are so lucky. The waters crept up around my shop, but did not reach us. Many homes are under and the shops are still closed but I decided to reopen my shop today. Things have to return to normal as soon as we can. Yet, I have been unable to cope mentally and have been very upset. The tears keep coming. I am not sure why. I have not lost a loved one, or my home. I just feel so uneasy.
Thank-you friends, over 100 emails yesterday. Thank-you so much for your concerns. My house is many miles away from the flood centre and we are all fine. Let's all take a moment to think about the loss of life and homes that others have experienced over the past few days.
If you are one of these people, I am so so sorry.
picture of man rescuing baby kangaroo via sun herald
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86 comments:

  1. mel @ loved handmadeJanuary 13, 2011 at 4:57 PM

    so glad you are safe, my thoughts & prayers are with all those affected, its just so very sad, so difficult to comprehend & the images are heartbreaking...

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  2. TERI REES WANGJanuary 13, 2011 at 4:58 PM

    You are blessed with a dear heart.

    Stay safe, and be gentle with your own self.

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  3. xxxJanuary 13, 2011 at 5:08 PM

    happy to read that you are safe

    best wishes from the west
    x Robyn

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  4. posie blogs Jennie McClellandJanuary 13, 2011 at 5:11 PM

    Hey gorgeous girl, thinking of you & yes, even those of us no where near Qld or the floods are in tears too, it's so heart breaking. My husband lives in Brisbane (he finally got back this afternoon) so he will help with rescues, recoveries & rebuilding, me - i'm involved in the auctions & raffles, live on my blog now. Love Posie

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  5. Sue H @ Astrachic StudioJanuary 13, 2011 at 5:11 PM

    Hi Simone,
    Great to hear your fine and your
    business and home. Just take one day
    at a time. We are all feeling lucky
    that we are all safe.
    Try to rest up,
    Sue

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  6. Irene ~ RE~VINTAGEDJanuary 13, 2011 at 5:18 PM

    Simone!
    Very relieved to know that all is 'well'.

    We are all doing our bit. I hope you have seen the Qld Flood Appeal Auction. I have four things available and they are just a few of lots of other crafters efforts already online and soon to be. You have such a large reach with your blog so if you could pop the button on your blog sometime soon it would be great. Pop over to Make It Perfect. The addy is tonicoward.blogspot.com
    See we are at it already :)
    Hugs and kisses from all of us!
    How can you not cry....how stressful has and is all of this, you are only human. Just let them happen.
    Its funny, I was just saying how normal things like going to school at the start of the year need to happen however these things can be done, as routines are so impotant to getting lives back. Good for you on opening the shop!!
    Just let me know if there is ANYTHING I can do for you or yours.
    All my love and best wishes, Irene xxxx

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  7. AnonymousJanuary 13, 2011 at 5:22 PM

    I'm in Perth, my husband is stranded in Roma and they've run out of food and fresh water. BUT - he is alive ...
    My heart is breaking for my beautiful country, the terrible destruction and loss of life. But in such diversity, so many heroes.
    My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
    Anita

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  8. vicki archerJanuary 13, 2011 at 5:29 PM

    I am so happy to hear that you aren't in any danger Simone...but I just feel so devastated for Queensland and those who have lost homes and families...Thinking of you....xv

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  9. Tammy@T's Daily TreasuresJanuary 13, 2011 at 5:29 PM

    It truly is devastating and I imagine so hard when you are safe and sound and yet can feel the chaos all around. Your country seems to have a fantastic infrastructure. I pray that the waters recede very soon so that lives and homes can be rebuilt. Wishing you all the best. Tammy

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  10. Pineapple VillaJanuary 13, 2011 at 5:41 PM

    oh thank goodness...i think you opening your shop is great as it will give people something lovely to take their minds off what else is going on. dont blame you for being teary, i can barely focus on anything right now. Am so glad your home is not affected as I knew it was on water but did not know what water ! Mel xx

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  11. HerminiaRegolfJanuary 13, 2011 at 5:47 PM

    We have seen this tragedy in the news! We are praying for all of you...

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  12. JennyJanuary 13, 2011 at 5:51 PM

    Simone it is so sad watching the news, I couldn't sleep last night because I kept thinking of all those poor people who have lost their lives and loved ones and especially the children that have died.

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  13. Belle InspirationsJanuary 13, 2011 at 5:53 PM

    You have been in my thoughts, you and your lovely shop, I'm so glad to hear everythings okay, Take care xx

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  14. suzyqJanuary 13, 2011 at 5:59 PM

    Hi Simone, So glad to hear you are going OK. Over here in the west we are praying for you all. What an amzing country we live in - we are currently battling fires and severe shortage of water!
    Stay string,
    Suzy

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  15. Simple HomeJanuary 13, 2011 at 6:01 PM

    I am so sorry for the loss that has taken place there in your homeland. You're in my prayers.
    Blessings,
    Marcia

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  16. Spots & StripesJanuary 13, 2011 at 6:03 PM

    I think the scale of the disaster makes us feel uneasy. And how quickly our lives can change. On New Year's Eve, we had no idea that the new year would begin with a flood. Good to hear that you, your family, your home and your shop are ok.

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  17. MirandaJanuary 13, 2011 at 6:06 PM

    Thank you so much for sharing your worries with us,your blogfriends....

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  18. the old boathouseJanuary 13, 2011 at 6:15 PM

    Hey Simone, so glad you were open, surprised you had power, we have no power at the nursery, I feel the same xxx katherine

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  19. Naturally CarolJanuary 13, 2011 at 6:16 PM

    So glad that you are ok. The tears...the loss of life and destruction is worthy of tears!

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  20. kirstyJanuary 13, 2011 at 6:30 PM

    It's no wonder you're finding it hard to deal with: it's bad enough for us to see on the other side of the world. Sending love and best wishes to you and yours xx

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  21. Carmel's ClosetJanuary 13, 2011 at 6:32 PM

    Simone, So pleased to read that you and your family are safe from the floods, you have been in my thoughts.
    Carmel
    x

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  22. Cornflakes and HoneyJanuary 13, 2011 at 6:47 PM

    Hi Simone, I'm so relieved to hear your update. I was just about to pop by and see if things are okay with you as I've been getting uneasy when not hearing daily news from fellow bloggers near the affected areas! It's all so devastating but Queenslanders are strong and already doing an incredible rescue effort in a bid to get things back to normal as quickly as possible. Glad your shop is okay, I hope there wasn't too much damage. Thinking of you all xx

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  23. TheaJanuary 13, 2011 at 6:47 PM

    Thanks for letting us know Simone. I was wondering about your shop. I know what you mean about crying - I can't stop either. It must be the shock. It just doesn't seem possible that this has happened in our city. I saw that same picture of the guy rescuing that kangaroo before too. A little ray of sunshine for sure. Stay dry my sweet! x

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  24. Daydream LivingJanuary 13, 2011 at 7:15 PM

    Hi Simone,
    It is heart breaking what is going on in your area, glad to hear you are safe. I posted yesterday about it, every prayer helps... All the best, Maureen

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  25. mandaJanuary 13, 2011 at 7:21 PM

    So glad you are ok! I am devastated by the news, seeing the premier, let alone the newsreader, cry, was just shattering! All my thought with everyone down south!

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  26. Lilly Ruth EveansJanuary 13, 2011 at 7:26 PM

    So happy to hear that your shop is safe. The feelings are very overwhelming. It has been hard to understand how those people are coping with it all. My thoughts and feelings are with you all.

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  27. Sarah BJanuary 13, 2011 at 7:44 PM

    I'm getting to the point where I just don't know what to say. I can completely understand you feeling so sad Simone, despite being able to avoid the floods. I mean I sat here this morning and cried over those photos of the kangaroos being saved and a poor lizard clinging to a fence. Too much to think about.
    xx

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  28. Julie@beingRUBYJanuary 13, 2011 at 8:05 PM

    Hi Simone
    Glad to know you are ok.. thinking of all queenslanders and sending you our prayers.. xxx Julie

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  29. Le January 13, 2011 at 8:21 PM

    I am where you are - I lived in toowoomba for a few years, have good friends there, family in lockyer valley - everyone is alive - but the emotional drama is just unfolding - love to you le

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  30. The Curious CatJanuary 13, 2011 at 8:41 PM

    Tried to leave you a comment yesterday but something was wrong with my computer. Thinking of you and all those who have lost their homes and loved ones...I hope you will all band together to get through this. xxx

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  31. Heirloom treasuresJanuary 13, 2011 at 8:50 PM

    So glad you are all ok Simone. Its a natural reaction to be teary, but you are all safe thank goodness xx jeanette

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  32. TaraJanuary 13, 2011 at 8:51 PM

    I'm so glad all is well for you and your family. This disaster is heart breaking..xx

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  33. mondocherryJanuary 13, 2011 at 9:06 PM

    So good to hear your beautiful shop didn't get flooded. I thought of you when I saw the street was on the list. I can no longer watch the tv coverage, especially the images from Toowoomba the the Lockyer Valley, as I start crying too. The thought of that wall of water is just horrible. We are high and dry as well and so I am feeling a little useless.
    Take care
    Clare x

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  34. ArtfulLee DesignedJanuary 13, 2011 at 9:46 PM

    Glad to hear you weren't under water Simone. My thoughts are with you all
    Lee:)

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  35. Sandies' PatchJanuary 13, 2011 at 9:49 PM

    I cannot begin to know the anguish and grief you all must be suffering, selfishly I wouldn't want to.
    However, I can only admire all of your grit and determination to survive under the circumstances.
    Here's hoping the water subsides soon.
    My prayers are with you all.

    Sandie xx

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  36. suburbansiderJanuary 13, 2011 at 10:08 PM

    I am so happy to hear your shop is ok and you have opened up your doors again. It is such a beautiful place!! and in such a beautiful part of our city!!I I have been wondering how that part of town had held up. I agree, the best thing to do is carry with as much normality as possible.
    Watching the destruction of our beloved city and hearing the tragic personal stories of loss unfold has been heartbreaking, the magnitude is overwhelming and although I have been very fortunate you have described my feelings too. {tears, unease}.
    I have been so impressed with people's strength and attitudes.
    Best wishes for you and your community where you work in Bulimba x

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  37. AnonymousJanuary 13, 2011 at 10:19 PM

    so glad your lovely shop was not affected, it is in such a beautiful street/suburb. Its so surreal, and like you, there is this overwhelming sense of sadness.

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  38. MelissaJanuary 13, 2011 at 10:23 PM

    oh simone- mine are welling up after reading this post...

    you are right life does have to go on...but for so many it wont for now...
    thank god you and yours are safe....

    thinking of you all at home from here in england...

    melissa xx

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  39. Kalei's Best FriendJanuary 13, 2011 at 11:00 PM

    omg, that picture totally disturbs me!. I hate seeing innocent creatures caught up in something like that... I am glad u are allright.. after your posting I went online as well as through our papers .. yes, they are reporting your country's devastation... the climate is certainly running amok all over the world!. we had snow, simone! I have trees that still haven't dropped their leaves.. everything is off kilter.

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  40. Tales of WhimsyJanuary 13, 2011 at 11:11 PM

    Wow. This picture is so powerful. It brings tears to my eyes.

    I am so glad to hear you're ok. So glad to hear your shop and home were spared. Two very huge blessings.

    And personally I think it's a beautiful thing that you're crying. It means you care and feel more than others. That is a beautiful thing. Cherish it. *hugs*

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  41. OleanderJanuary 13, 2011 at 11:17 PM

    that's so scary and sad, i'm glad to hear that you guys are okay. Sorry that you are so stressed, i'm sure the ordeal is quite traumatic.

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  42. DineyJanuary 13, 2011 at 11:39 PM

    Pleased to hear from you. This is just terrible. Such devastation. No words I'm afraid, but thoughts. x

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  43. SandraJanuary 13, 2011 at 11:41 PM

    My heart truely breaks

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  44. jeanette from everton terraceJanuary 13, 2011 at 11:56 PM

    First, so glad to hear you are okay. Second, your feelings are completely normal. I've been tearing up and letting them roll for the past few days - even seeing that image (because I so worry about the animals) has brought the tears to my eyes. We had a terrible shooting here in Arizona which has been dominating our news but when I talk to people we are all reminding each other to pray for all of you.

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  45. www.MaisonStGermain.comJanuary 14, 2011 at 12:14 AM

    It is so sad, I can see why you feel that way. Glad you are ok. I hope that kangaroo made it.
    ~Debra xxx
    Capers of the vintage vixens

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  46. Marguerite (Tina) Smith HartJanuary 14, 2011 at 12:28 AM

    Simone I have been praying very hard for all of Australia and her people and animals! I thought of you and hoped you were one of the lucky ones who would be spared and I am happy that you and your family are well.
    I wish I could be there to lend a hand, but know that in my heart I am...
    Love to all Australia and her brave people!
    Tina xo

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  47. Laura's Rose GardenJanuary 14, 2011 at 12:46 AM

    Hello Simone,
    Oh I am so glad to hear that you are safe!! You have been through a catastrophic episode so expect the feelings of discombobulation and the tears to flow. I will kepp you all in my thoughts and prayers!
    "KEEP STRONG AND CARRY ON!!!"
    Love and warm hugs from Laura in Ontario Canada.

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  48. lisaroyJanuary 14, 2011 at 1:39 AM

    I'm so relieved to hear that you're ok and your beautiful shop has not been affected! It's so scary and I've been praying for everyone during this tragedy - the wrath of Mother Nature! Stay safe and big hugs to you xo

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  49. anitaJanuary 14, 2011 at 2:59 AM

    its big simone, and your right there. grieving for others and thankful we are spared is a difficult place to be emotionally. maybe you opened your shop just to be closer...maybe someone will need your comfort today!

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  50. i am pamJanuary 14, 2011 at 3:34 AM

    sending love and hope from florida. this picture and the whole situation is beyond words.

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  51. NancyJanuary 14, 2011 at 3:38 AM

    Even when you haven't suffered a personal loss, you can't help but be effected by the tragedy you've witnessed, and there is so much suffering happening in your homeland. I've been thinking about you and all my other Australian blog friends this week. Prayers and good vibes being sent your way.

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  52. DebbyJanuary 14, 2011 at 3:41 AM

    So glad that you are safe. You have many reasons to be sad. It is tragic when something this big hits you close to home. Sending you (((((HUGS)))))).

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  53. DebbieJanuary 14, 2011 at 3:52 AM

    Thinking and praying for ya'll!

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  54. UnknownJanuary 14, 2011 at 4:08 AM

    Dear Simone, I am so happy to hear that you and your family are okay! It's perfectly normal to be upset for the tragedy that just occurred and to be sad for all the loss. Hoping that you find comfort in your shop and friends and family. Sending you lots of love!
    xo Mary Jo

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  55. LexJanuary 14, 2011 at 4:14 AM

    Simone,

    I was so pleased to read this morning that your shop escaped the water. At least that's a positive to come out of such a sad time. It must be an extremely difficult time for you and the people of Queensland and I really hope that you feel much better soon and that people can begin to rebuild their lives as soon as possible.

    I'm sure no one will forget those who sadly lost their lives.

    Hoping for happier times ahead for you all.
    With Love

    Lex. xx

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  56. JaneJanuary 14, 2011 at 4:42 AM

    So grateful that your home and shop were not affected by the flood. And it's certainly understandable that you shed tears...for the loss of life, the loss of homes, the loss of normalcy. My heart cries for all of you...And my prayer is that goodness will come from this disaster. The world is watching, grieving and praying for Australia...
    xo
    Jane (artfully graced)

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  57. ShellbelleJanuary 14, 2011 at 6:03 AM

    So thankful that you and yours are safe. My heart breaks for those who lost loved ones, their homes or their incomes.

    Your feelings of unease are to be expected. I had similar ones after surviving two earthquakes in California. It's hard when something so devastating affects our normal routine. We need normalcy, it's what we do.

    You are right to open your shop. Just days after the 1994 Northridge Quake, we opened the small cafe I managed. The neighborhood was a mess, but we had gas and water, so we cooked. Our regular customers came everyday, we extended our hours to accommodate them and give them a place to escape to. I can't tell you how many were so grateful to be able to do something normal and how very grateful we were that they were safe. We lost two of our regulars and it gave us a place to grieve together and to mend together.

    I had two cousins who lost their homes in Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. Many lives were lost and the devastation seemed like it would forever wipe out a city that we love here in America.

    I tell you all this because it will get better and it will get easier. In the days ahead the people of Australia will come together to mend her wounds. It will take time and emotions will be all over the place. But trust me, lives and places will be rebuilt and you will all be stronger for having gone through it together.

    My heart and my thoughts are with all of you and I wish you all a speedy recovery.

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  58. JacolineJanuary 14, 2011 at 6:08 AM

    I'm so happy that you and your shop are save. What a nightmare. we think pf all of you !!

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  59. AnonymousJanuary 14, 2011 at 6:17 AM

    Very glad you and your family are ok although feeling the weight of the situation. I saw this very pictue and it is very striking and beautiful. We are all really impressed at how the Queenslanders have risen to face what has come your way. Remarkable bravery and strength of spirit - we are kepping praying for you all.

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  60. Cybele BelschanskyJanuary 14, 2011 at 7:52 AM

    Simone, minha querida!
    Fica aqui meus pensamentos bem positivos, para que tudo esteja bem com vocês aí na Austrália e que logo as chuvas acabem.
    Beijos!

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  61. Alison GibbsJanuary 14, 2011 at 8:09 AM

    Simone happy to hear that all is safe for you. It has been such a tragic time for so many
    Aliso

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  62. Exquisite accessoriesJanuary 14, 2011 at 8:36 AM

    oh Simone thank goodness your safe & havent lost your home I was so worried as i didnt know what part of the river you were on! You stay safe take care if there is anything I can do let me know if you want me to make anything for the shop (no charge) let me know I can send it & the money can go to the flood appeal just let me know if you think of anything that i could do i feel so helpless at the moment xxx

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  63. KyJanuary 14, 2011 at 8:42 AM

    So glad to hear your shop is ok. The people need some beauty around them at this time. They definately need some normalcy, which shopping would bring.
    I don't blame you for crying a lot. That's a very normal reaction with all the shock and stress that Qld has suffered this week. It's better to express it than keep it bottled up.

    Take care, Ky x

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  64. UnknownJanuary 14, 2011 at 9:07 AM

    Simone:
    all my best wishes for those people!

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  65. SusanJanuary 14, 2011 at 9:24 AM

    Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
    My thoughts and prayers are with you and all of those who have been affected by the flooding. May the Lord restore your peace of mind, my friend, as you look to Him.
    Blessings.

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  66. CarolineJanuary 14, 2011 at 9:42 AM

    I've been following this tragic real life drama on the news....I feel for all of you. God bless your country that is affected and I hope the waters will recede very quickly.

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  67. MelindaJanuary 14, 2011 at 10:53 AM

    I'm always in front of the tv when the world news is on so I can see what is happening in your part of the world.
    Glad to hear that you home family and shop are good. I'm sorry to hear of the losses though--they are so hard to hear about.
    Continued prayers for you and your friends.

    Melinda

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  68. UnknownJanuary 14, 2011 at 12:32 PM

    I'm glad you are fine! - my thoughts and prayers go out to those who most need it! Stay safe.

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  69. Alicia ~ time worn styleJanuary 14, 2011 at 12:39 PM

    stay strong hun, having your shop open will bring cheer to many I am positive of that.
    alicia

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  70. SelinaJanuary 14, 2011 at 1:06 PM

    great you are fine and your business, my thoughts are with everyone in brissy at this time, wild things is chipping in by raising money for flood relief appeal

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  71. KoriJanuary 14, 2011 at 1:58 PM

    So glad to know that you're OK. I saw a video on the web yesterday and couldn't believe what I was seeing. Keep your head up and smile when you can...and cry when you need to! It's only normal.

    I hope things are able to get back to normal for you and your town soon...

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  72. vintgal003January 14, 2011 at 2:42 PM

    God Bless you...your family...and all of Australia in this absolutely horrific time! Most sincerely, your friend Valerie over in Manitoba, Canada......xoxox

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  73. RobinJanuary 14, 2011 at 9:27 PM

    Thinking of and saying prayers for everyone touched by this terrible tragedy. Sending warm hugs ...
    xo
    Robin
    All Things Heart and HOme

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  74. Lily RianiJanuary 15, 2011 at 3:23 AM

    gosh. am glad you are ok. take care.

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  75. CathiJanuary 15, 2011 at 10:15 AM

    My heart goes out to everyone that have lost their homes and loved ones in the flood! I have been thinking about you too, glad you are safe!! Warm hugs to you! xxoo :)

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  76. gimenaJanuary 15, 2011 at 11:59 AM

    Hi, I am from Venezuela very far from country in South America, we share all about your feelings, I understood, because we have in this moment similar problems Our people lost everything by rain, but God is our hope, I praying for you and your country , Be strong, God is with us, Bye Grace

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  77. Vintage is for LoversJanuary 15, 2011 at 2:20 PM

    I have been keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Hope things get back to peace soon. xo Samantha

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  78. JKWJanuary 15, 2011 at 4:32 PM

    I am so sorry about the way you feel. There has been a very large catastrophe happen and, of course, you will feel it, although you are fortunate to have no damage or loss of loved ones. This doesn't change the heartache you feel about what has happened and the time it will take for the clean up and to get things back to rights again. Many Blessings, Janet

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  79. ShazJanuary 15, 2011 at 8:18 PM

    Can't stop thinking about those who have lost loved ones. So, so sad.

    Happy to hear you, your family, shop and house are all fine. xxx

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  80. marthalenaJanuary 15, 2011 at 8:19 PM

    So glad you're (mostly) ok. Hugs from Canada.

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  81. LeslieJanuary 16, 2011 at 4:02 AM

    Simone.. I am so sorry for what in happening in your part of the world. It is truly heart breaking to watch on the news, I can't imagine living it.
    Stay strong and safe!!!!
    Hugs from Baltimore.

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  82. UnknownJanuary 16, 2011 at 6:04 AM

    That picture is heartbreaking :(

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  83. Recycled RitaJanuary 17, 2011 at 4:52 AM

    Gosh...you have every reason to be sad. I am sending prayers to you all and just keep strong. Help where you can help and that will soothe your soul a little... karen...

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  84. -January 17, 2011 at 9:05 AM

    My heart goes out to you. It is very natural for you to feel the way you do. Please hang in there. There are legions of people waiting to help from what I have been reading.

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  85. SHERRY HARTJanuary 17, 2011 at 11:38 PM

    OMG...my heart is breaking...that picture is award worthy......mother nature can be cruel at times :(

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  86. The Single NesterJanuary 26, 2011 at 8:12 AM

    My heart breaks after seeing the images of your homeland. Thoughts and prayers to all.

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