Hallelujah

There is no getting round the fact Christchurch is a very damaged city. Even though large parts look ok we all share the same infrastructure and it's stuffed - fragile (depending where you live). Homes are destroyed or severely damaged and the land beneath an uncertain quantity. The rest of us look at and cope with varying degrees of damage at home and count ourselves fortunate.

Here is a series of graphic images showing the central city.

Then of course we have no idea what else it beneath us, where the stress and tension is and what - if anything, may move destructively next.

Yesterday and today I've felt buoyed and hopeful, and appreciative of what we do have. Water, power and the basics to function, glorious colours of autumn and people working exceptionally hard to rebuild our city.

A blip Annie back blipped yesterday of Evelyn in hospital was truly inspirational. If you want perspective and an injection of positivity have a look and a read.

Today I realised Christchurch still has some old buildings. The Malthouse was build in 1867. It started as a brewery beside the Heathcote River, these days it is a children's theatre. They've sustained cosmetic damage because they did undertake earthquake strengthening work.

Hallelujah it still exists.

(music please Mr Cohen)