Joanna was caring for the house a few years ago while we were gone and the fridge went out. She said, "Never again". But you never know. :) If the house is gone, we will lose lots of memories, antiques, etc. But in reality that is only stuff when we are all safe and sound.
We are luckier than some of the families. We came to New Mexico and planned to be gone about three months so we have clothes, medicine, computers (brains), art stuff and important things like golf clubs. Some folks had about 3 minutes notice and left without anything but their clothes, phones and cars. Our neighbors were gone for the day and couldn't get back to rescue anything so have the clothes on their back, the car they were in and that is it.
Other friends have lost their homes for sure. Some had home businesses and lost their machinery, tools and their way to make a living.
The authorities are now saying 35,000 acres burned, 800 homes lost, 4300 meters without power, etc. This will be a long term problem. Students with no school supplies, no where to live, and so much more.
The best thing you can do for me is to help the places in Bastrop that are offering support to the displaced families. The Bastrop Christian Ministerial Alliance is coordinating donations at Rundell Business Park at 704 Hwy 71 West (11 a.m. to 8 p.m.) Please call 512.332.8661 for more information. Checks and Money Orders to Bastrop Christian Ministerial Alliance PO Box 856 Bastrop TX 78602 The Alliance is the central clearing house for help to the shelters and people needing clothes and help.
Of course you can help through the Family Crisis Center, Red Cross and others as well. Housing will be such a big problem. I cannot imagine where the families will live.
You can start here at one of the local TV channels, KXAN, that has been broadcasting news live and from there search for Bastrop Fire on Google and you can see the horrific photos and stories.
This video shows how quickly a fire moves. Scarry.
And for art: Don't forget about the contest to win the new book by Maggie Price. Look on the sidebar upper right. All you have to do is comment on my post or paint a little painting. Have fun with that.
7 comments:
You are so brave and patient. I am crazy with waiting to know things for certain.
This could not be a more horrible situation for such wonderful people.
Of course, thinking of you both.
You and Gene have been in my thoughts lots the past few days. I am glad you were in NM and have some of your things. I can't imagine how it will be for others.
Leslie, thank you. I kept thinking maybe it was OK, but down deep I think I knew. You have to be patient when you can't do a thing. :(
Bag Blog, I was thinking of you, too. It has been so hot in Oklahoma and Texas. We are still enjoying this cool weather. Will probably make a last run up to RR tomorrow for a good steak. Going to Chimayo for our birthday dinners on Sunday and stay at the B & B there. Nice.
Love you guys!
Love you, Joanna!
It is all so sad Jo, and you being very brave and pragmatic. Know that there are so many people here in Austin who are wrapping their love around you and Gene right now.
Let the grieving period help though, you will need it.
And think about making hasty decisions on your future.
Give it some time to adjust to what has happened.
I hug you...
Oxoxo
Thank you so much, Rae. We have a place to stay, thanks to Regina and Larry and plan to take our time. All the good wishes are wonderful and needed. Appreciate and feel the warmth. :)
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