I've just been reading about the terrible 8.9 earthquake in Indonesia. There had been an 8.1 earthquake three days earlier in the ocean between Australia and Antarctica. Are we in for another January surprise? No one around here has forgotten the Northridge earthquake of 1994, especially those of us who were practically perched on the epicenter.

It is said that the earth is still reverberating from the event. Ringing like a bell. Even disturbed the earth's rotation.

The European Union has pledged $4 million for assistance. The Indian Air Force is dropping packets of food, clothing and also diesel generators. (Now there's a good use for military technology!) I couldn't find any response from the U.S. yet this morning in any of the major news services. Compassion, anyone?

The greatest part of the death, devastation and destruction was caused by the tsunamis. Evidently the people sunbathing, snorkeling, fishing, having breakfast had no warning at all. Quelle dommage!