Monday, March 5, 2018

Reshaped by Irma



   (January 15 to 22,2018 Memories Flameco Cayo Coco)
This photo taken from our corner balcony gave a great view of the cruel harsh makeover the hurricane forced onto this area of the keys in September. It wiped out entire forests of tall palm trees that used to give shelter all along the beach. The hard coral on the coast vanished under the sand. The ocean water receeded a lot thereby creating a wider surface of beach sand  to enjoy. I cannot imagine how an ocean can shift itself so drastically. But it does. I saw the before and now the after.
   Much work by every resort employee went into clearing up all the mess left by Irma and they toiled with speed and pride to get the resort back to a place that both they and their guests would enjoy again. 
   We sure did.  And having been there before we were amazed both by what a storm can do to restructure the landscape and how hard and fast the determined staff has managed to clear and rebuild all that was needed.  They were given the tools and supplies promply and they did whatever they could. Chefs, waiters, housekeepers all did everything needed until the place was ready for them to resume their regular roles. And they greeted and welcomed us back with big smiles happy to see us again. Incredible.
   Of course some took a moment to share their story of their experience and we listened with much admiration.