Under Siege VII: The Great Escape

It's been a really long day. We were woken up by bombs between midnight and 2am by really loud, window shaking explosions. Then, I think there was another at 6am, but as I've noted before, you really do kind of get used to it. Today has been absolutely manic. We had the 'go go go' to start getting people out on the ship late last night and we continued contacting people today. I can't believe that we managed to achieve the evacuation of 170 people in a few hours! There were hiccups, obviously, but it was really nice to see that you could actually help people physically, rather than just try to reassure them over the phone. I must admit that my help involved the creation of spreadsheets (ever the techy!) and general running around, but it was a very rewarding feeling.

They'll be more tomorrow, and for the rest of the week. As far as I know, I will not be on any of these ships. This of course depends on what happens, and can change at any time. I am not leaving without Dom so we will have to see what decisions are made higher up. I feel a bit out of the loop in terms of what is going on internationally, although it appears that still no one is putting any pressure on Israel to stop. Have just watched a clip of Bush on the BBC as I try to wind down and someone has clearly told him how to pronounce Hizbullah as he kept saying it very loudly and often. Can someone now train him to say 'Israel should stop bombing' and hopefully we'll get somewhere.

It's been really quiet today - I believe the Israelis are being quieter as the evacuees need safe passage, but I expect it will get loud again tonight. Update on Sydney: she appears well and still hard of hearing, she has shifted position in the nest which may (or may not) be the equivalent of babies shifting position before the mother goes into labour... watch this space!!!