An early morning flight took me to Arizona today for Pakistan earthquake relief orientation. There were about 50 other men going in this first wave. We got to hear a lot more details about what the situation is in-country. We will be setting up a base camp in a town that was not completely demolished by the quake. From there we will drive/fly/carry shelter building supplies into small villages that need them higher up the mountains. The shelters are made from 4 bent steel pipes (we will carry the pipe bending machines with us), covered with a half-cylinder of corrugated steel. A layer of foam provides much needed insulation. They can be set up in as fast as half an hour.

I leave in 2 hours for yet another early morning flight… PHX -> LAX -> Hong Kong -> Bangkok -> Islamabad. It’s really happening. I’m very sad to leave my beautiful bride behind — she is always such an awesome travel companion, with excellent cultural and spiritual insights. I love her so much. I’m so grateful for all her support of me in this endeavor.

I will be working primarily with a team of 3 other guys, Jonny included (Greg is with a longer-term group). I was honored to be chosen as team leader. I think that will be a good experience for me.

Please pray that we are able to get all of the necessary supplies to the base camp, and then get them to where they are most needed. With so much happening in the country right now (including 5.5 - level aftershocks), logistics can be horrendous.

Thank you again to all who so generously contributed to this effort. I really couldn’t do it without you!

I don’t know how much internet access i will have… but rest assured that i will post as often as i can!

peace.

+brooke