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| (image from daily herald) |
The fire burned 6,000 acres and forced over 1,000 people out of their homes, ranied down ash and soot on our community, made the sky black for several days and continues to burn.
Thankfully, we have a very capable crew of firemen who were able to contain the fire. No people were injured and there was NO structural damage. We are blessed!
The one thing I've learned from this experience is the importance of a 72 hour kit. I now have one for every member of my family (including the dog). You never know what will come tomorrow, and you don't want to be caught unprepared. I've also documented all of our belongings (for insurance purposes).
I learned something else too. I called Kevin at work to give him updates about the fire and express my fears and concerns. I whimpered into the phone something about if the fire burned our home all of the things that we would lose that couldn't be replaced like photos and keepsakes. Kevin just said, "They're just things. The most important thing is that we are all safe." He's right. I'm so grateful for my family. The Lord blessed me tremendously with wonderful people that I get to call family. They are what matter most.
The last thing I learned is that my community here is AMAZING! Kevin and I drove out to Eagle Mountain several years ago to look at homes. When we returned home we both agreed that we would NEVER live that far away from the city. Then life happened and we found ourselves out in this little community called Eagle Mountain. From the first day we noticed how neighborly and friendly all the people are out here. They wave and smile when they pass you on the street (wether they know you or not) And are quick to offer a helping hand.
For example, one day, the weather turned terribly windy and rainy during our morning walk. Kylea was freezing and so I was holding her while she huddled into my neck and pushing the stroller and holding the dog who was tugging excitedly at his leash while lifting his head into the wind. A woman in a mini van stopped and offered us a ride home. I declined (friendly small town isn't in my DNA. I always suspect people are trying to murder me) but the gesture warmed my soul.
The generous nature of the people in this community was widely displayed during the fire. The firehouse had to request people STOP bringing food and blankets and offering to volunteer because they were filled to capacity with donations and volunteers.
It's good to feel safe again and it's good to be reminded of how many blessings I have that I take for granted too often.
