Southern California Fires

Our little bungalow is located 25 miles inland and very close to downtown Los Angeles. We are not in any immediate danger from the fires burning in Los Angeles county. Our hearts go out to all the displaced families and the staggering loss of property.

David works in Santa Monica, an area along the coast, south of Malibu. He said he could smell smoke but that was all. David and I had driven up Pacific Coast highway a week ago and stopped along the beach in Malibu. We spent a few wonderful hours on the beach watching the surfers, fishermen, and children playing in the ocean. It is hard to believe how quickly things can change.

David's sister, who is living in China, sent us a concerned email asking if we are ok and if there is any chance the fire could reach us. I let her know the chance was very slim and not to worry.

Then I have my family in Indiana who can't understand how I could choose to live in such a place with all the mudslides, fires, earthquakes, crime and the high cost of living. They would have to spend a few perfect hours one Sunday afternoon at the beach to understand.

Update:
I've been out running errands today. The sky is colored a white/gray with no hint of blue. The air is hot, dry, and feels heavy. It ismells odd and stale.

Posted by heather at October 23, 2007 8:14 AM