UGH...the internet connection here is really dodgy and I never seem to have it when I need it. Sorry to all that are awaiting updates. I will talk about the political situation in a minute.
Let me start by saying that Kevin had a great 29th birthday. Thank you so much for all the happy birthday wishes. He was thrilled with his new dive computer and the dive shop even made him a cake! Well, it's not exactly what you think. They threw eggs at him and then covered him in flour before pushing him off the dock! It was hilarious. I have photos, but I'll have to post them when my connection is better. He then went diving and played poker...two of his favourite things. It was a nice day for him...next year will be even better.
Other than that, we've been diving a lot...until yesterday that is. Zelaya is back in Honduras at the Brazilian Embassy and it's causing all kinds of havoc. The people really don't want him back in power and I don't blame them. Last night we were forced home because of a countrywide curfew that started at 4 pm. This morning we discovered that it has been extended all day and night. We are unsure of when it will be lifted. Anyone seen on the streets will be arrested, but they seem to give the tourists a bit more slack.
At this time I have no minutes on my cell phone and no shops are open. The dive shop owner also owns a little corner grocery store which he opened for 10 minutes so we could get some supplies. The airports and ferries are shut down and no one is allowed to come in or leave. We've heard of riots on the mainland and there is talk that all our visas will be revoked. It's scary for those who own property or have their whole lifes here. For us...well...we'll just move on to Belize and finish our DMT program later on if they force us out. We have a year to do it.
The internet has been especially bad over the past 24 hours...no internet at the dive shop which is rare. Our connection at the house is always dodgy but the 3G networks are usually good. Some have speculated that the cell phone signals are being scrambled to avoid communication with the outside world. I have heard media reports that cell phones are being totally blocked in some areas. It is hard to know what's accurate when you're in the middle of it. What I do know is that the international media is not reporting all of the facts. Their biased reporting says that the people want Zelaya back in power when that is clearly not the case. The journalist in me wants to get involved, but I won't. Every person here has told me not to report from within the country...that's it's much too dangerous. I believe that and will keep my nose out of their business. Like I said, I'm just here to dive...nothing else.
So, we are riding out the curfew not knowing when we will be allowed to play in paradise once again. We wanted adventure...and this is definitely adventure. I don't feel unsafe...just a nervous energy popping within my veins. The air is electric with tension as this country sits on edge awaiting its fate. Let's pray it's a good one.
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