A MILLION THANKS

March 3, 2009
I cannot begin to express how grateful I am for all of the emails and calls checking on us and offering assistance. Many of you already know that 1500 acres of beautiful forest and many people’s homes and businesses have been burning since last Saturday here in Bastrop County. The fire is mostly contained and is not spreading, but the firefighters will be working through the rest of the week on hot spots that are creeping up. Our county is the driest county in Texas and the fire (started by downed power lines) spread so quickly. Our street was one of the worst areas burning and at one point we were under evacuation. We had loaded our cars with our precious dogs and puppies and an overnight bag and were awaiting final word to evacuate when the fire started moving east and away from us. It was a scary and overwhelming experience. We were so fortunate, but many others were not. Family homes are completely gone, some with only a tin roof laying on the ground….others with only the remains of a car looking strange sitting in the forest alone where a beautiful house and family used to live. The devastation is hard to see and comprehend. The resilience of the people and families has been an inspiration to me….the community is rallying and reminds me of how big people’s hearts can be and how much joy there is in giving.
No one lost their life, and to my knowledge, no animals were harmed. Friends and neighbors were releasing animals in fences to allow them to escape the blaze.
We have received so many emails and calls and I cannot begin to tell you how grateful we are. Thank you so much for your concern and for your thoughts and prayers. Please continue to pray for all those families who are now displaced.
Going through a situation like this certainly brings to the forefront of your mind how fragile life is and how quickly things can change. Our faith, our family, and friends are the only things that are enduring, and I have a renewed appreciation for those I love.
I have been a bit behind with my photos and updates because we were without power and water for a time and we still do not have internet access at the house. I hope to have Bella’s GORGEOUS boys posted by the end of the week and Leila is due this weekend. We have had a lot of interest in her litter and we are very excited ourselves as this is a first time pairing with these two.
Have a beautiful day and cherish those you love…..