... and beyond. I've written about the Cameron Peak Fire before but it exploded again last Wednesday when wind gusts approaching 70 mph pushed the fire 15 miles east and closer to Fort Collins. Strong winds persisted throughout most of the weekend and will continue into next week, keeping the fire near-critical for the period. The last time I wrote about the fire 103,000 acres were burning; it's currently 203,000 acres and growing. It is now the largest wildfire in CO history, and this weekend two new wildfires ignited near Boulder in addition to the hundreds burning throughout the west.
My worries and concerns are for Ryan, and also the thousands of firefighters and all of the people who have been evacuated, many who don't yet know if they will have a home to return to or when this destructive wildfire season will be over. We all know how difficult it is to live with the uncertainty of the coronavirus and the uncertainty of knowing what will happen on a day to day basis with wildfires only adds to the apprehension and anguish.
I was at home in NJ this weekend, doing mundane things like laundry, vacuuming, making calzones, reading, and knitting, but my heart, mind, and thoughts were with Ryan and all of those suffering in the west. I sincerely hope we elect a new president on November 3, one that knows that climate change is real, is guided by science, and willing to take action, not simply suggest that we sweep up dead leaves.
I totally understand your anguish, Bonny. The Holiday Farm fire that was threatening my stepson in Oregon is contained for the moment, but who knows when it might kick up again. I sincerely hope Ryan stays safe and that this fire season ends soon. I just can't imagine what it would be like to deal with this as the folks in the west must do these days. All good thoughts to Ryan, you, and everyone else affected by this. I hope they all get rain soon. Two weeks and counting until we know if we have hope.
ReplyDeleteIt's all so scary, though living where I do I really have no concept of wildfires. I hope Ryan stays safe -- he's in my thoughts!
ReplyDeleteThe fires are so horrible. Amen about electing a leader who can help us deal more appropriately with the disastrous impact of global warming. My oldest son lives in California and has been impacted by the fires there. One of my daughters lives in a town about 40 miles south of where I live and her town was evacuated due to a fire just last month. I do understand your concerns and worries. Keep us informed.
ReplyDeleteI've been thinking about Ryan a lot this weekend -- as well as a couple of friends in Fort Collins, and my sister 45 miles away. I hope Ryan is hanging in there and ready with an "action plan" should go-time arrive. I'm sending all my love and best juju to you, Bonny, and to everyone in the path of these fires. XO
ReplyDeleteI have had Ryan in my thoughts as well, Bonny. (as well as the firefighters and all those affected) I am hoping the winds change, die down, and cool weather settles in... with some much needed precipitation! (and I have you in my thoughts as well, dear friend. I am here if you need a listening ear... this all is such a heavy burden to carry alone. XO)
ReplyDeletepraying for you and for Ryan and for change November 3rd. This year has been HARD.
ReplyDeleteTwo weeks and one day.
ReplyDeleteHoping for the best in the meantime, Bonny, and that you all might be able to take a little rest from worries.
I'll be meditating on "the winds of change" this week - in more ways than one.
ReplyDeleteOf course you are worried! I hope things get better soon. And I hope they REALLY get better on November 3rd!
ReplyDeleteOh Bonny! Of course you are worried. I was thinking of Ryan and wondering how he was doing. My brother in Boulder has not (yet...so far...) had to evacuate. His son was very close to evacuating and may still have to. Scary times!! Sending you some hugs and wishing Ryan peace and safety.
ReplyDeleteThose fires look horrible! I can't imagine the anguish you must feel. I hope and pray that Ryan and everyone will be safe!
ReplyDeleteThis seems like an especially awful fire season for the whole west, and that means resources are stretched even thinner. Ryan says he would feel less anxious with one fewer thing to worry about - the election, covid, and fires. I think everyone feels the same way!
DeleteMy prayers are with you and Ryan and the people of CO, and all the other states affected. Keeping the faith!
ReplyDeleteI've had you and Ryan and that entire region in my thoughts ... just when it seems like things can't possibly get any worse, they do. I hope Ryan is coping and has a plan (and a packed bag) just in case. and you ... all the best juju my friend!
ReplyDeleteOh we are all worried for you son!!!!! I will keep him in my prayers. Our friends just moved from Wisconsin to Ft Collins. I feel so badly for them. They are safe now, but breathing in all that stuff is bad too! Rain. We need rain for them! OR snow. Whatever will put that blaze out. Hugs
ReplyDeleteKeeping Ryan and our Colorado friends in our prayers. I can't even imagine how poor the air quality must be right now. xo
ReplyDeleteWhen I read in the paper about the Colorado fires, I thought of you and Ryan. I am keeping all of you and those in its path in my thoughts and prayers. Sometimes I wonder why no one told me how much worrying I would do about my adult children. Amen to change on November 3. Let's hope for moisture in Colorado and send the winds of change to DC.
ReplyDeleteThe wildfire season has been disturbing on many levels, but when someone you know is affected it is doubly difficult problem. As a mother you must feel so helpless. Here in Utah we have been spared the terrible fires, although we've had our turn in the past and may find next year means it's "our turn". We are still, even with snow and frost expected, hearing warnings of wildfire danger. I realize we are not nearby, but if Ryan needs anything we can provide, please don't hesitate.
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