smoked out

Waking up to smoke again, instantly worrying if it is a new fire, is it closer, where's the cat...?

Ok, so it's the middle of the night, I'm only semi-lucid. But it's been three weeks of smoke, often so bad I can't see off my deck. Every summer I keep a bag packed, precious stuff ready (if I'm home, another thing to worry about!)

But I'm just whining a little. I am totally grateful the fires are not closer. (Redhead Endurance had a scare a few weeks ago!) I am in awe of the amount of manpower and machines it is taking to fight these monster fires. The American Fire has burned across the Western States Trail outside of Foresthill, including the historic swinging bridge. And 27,000 other acres. It is contained, but still being put out. I can't imagine firefighting in inaccessible canyons that haven't seen fire in recorded history.

But the Rim fire near Yosemite is amazing in its horrible, terrible fury. 220,000 acres. 343 square miles. I know nothing of fire mechanics, but it grew so fast. Maybe terrain, or weather, but the fire crews are sure doing their best. Some containment, the fifth largest fire ever in California, much more work to do.

The smoke is not at all bad where Major lives. We did a couple short rides, but he and I are taking a break. Just walking, grooming, relaxing, because it felt like a very long summer. The apple trees are so full, and the ones on the ground are fair game for the horses. He only gets a couple, he would eat himself sick if he could.




We walk down the dirt road and explore. I let him lead and tail him around, good practice plus it is pretty fun to see where he chooses to go. He finds hidden bites of green grass, stops to sniff something, regally stares off at some unseen interest, is suspicious of the moved jumps in the arena, fun to just hang out with my horse. No plans. No miles to train. No deadlines. He is quite happy. Me too.