As many of you may be aware the south east of Queensland has recently had horrific flooding with many lives being lost and the destruction of property is of mammoth proportion. Words and the news can not show the damage that this huge amount of water has caused. Whilst the water is now receding, the clean up and heartbreak begins for the people effected by the floods and in true Australian spirit people are out in force assisting those in their time of need.
I hear you all saying, what does this have to do with Elmo. Well, in Elmo's last post he said that he was going to visit Kimm to go for a ride in his Buick (not just any Buick but an Elmo red one!). Well I took Elmo out to Kimm's last Friday night (a week ago now) and never did I imagine what only 4 days later would bring. Kimm lives in North Bovall in Ipswich, the second worst flood affected area in Ipswich. I said goodbye to Elmo with the promise that I would see him soon and to enjoy his time with Kimm. Tuesday night, the flood waters hit Kimm's house and Kimm had no choice but to evacuate. Unfortunately at this time, Elmo was left behind in his house. When I heard the news that Kimm's house had gone under, my heart broke for a man that just lost everything.
This is actually Kimm's street and his house is on the left at about the 6th street light. As you can see his house is clearly underwater along with everyone else in the street.
From this picture you can see that I really did fear that Elmo would be floating around in the house and possibly could not be saved. It was another 2 days before the water receded enough to allow anyone in to start the huge clean up mission.
From the end of the street .
Looking into Kimm's street after the water had gone down and people were allowed back into their house's to start the clean up. Kimm's house is on the right with green fence.
You can see the water line on the house. It was only at this stage that I felt that Elmo might be OK. I had left Elmo sitting on Kimm's couch and from the look of the water line I held hope that maybe Elmo hadn't gone all the way under.
I walked inside to find....
Elmo exactly where I had left him just 4 days prior. He was a little bit damp but safe and sound.
You can see the mass of destruction left by the water. It lifted everything up and dumped it where ever it wanted.
This kitchen after water has drained out.
All the rubbish was thrown out onto the street. Elmo took a seat on the couch that had saved him during the floods.
At the end of day 1, we all gathered for a group shot with Elmo. Whist Kimm has a long journey ahead of him to rebuild his home and life, he is surrounded by friends that will help him every step of the way.
I am please to report that Elmo is safe. Though I'm not sure about giving him back to Kimm for another chance at a ride in the Buick! (Eric you will have to wait for pictures of the car I'm sorry) Elmo can't handle that much excitement and well... neither can Lauren.
Elmo is going to take a rest for a while, dry out and just kick back. More to come later
Love Lauren & Elmo
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