trivial

There is nothing to write about that doesn’t seem trivial. Even just the sunlight, filtering yellow through the smoke, may be beautiful in its own right, but is just a result of the devastation. We cannot ride or hike from the smoke, but I am not complaining.

 

the smoke coats the valley more than 70 miles away

Imagine probably everyone you’ve ever met, and every single one of those people have lost their home. 11,000+ homes in northern California burned in the Camp Fire. I know that I don’t think I’ve met that many people in my lifetime. 

 

scary sunrise

Some people say “this is why we don’t live in fire zones.” And it is indeed terrifying: People fled without pets, important papers, phones, and some left their lives inside their burning cars. But in this new climate, the danger is increasing everywhere. And honestly, if it’s not fire, there is usually some other disaster that can befall you: hurricanes, tornadoes, snowstorms, rain events, terrorism, the list goes on. So use compassion instead of judgment.

I am more thankful than ever to have what I have, and to have given what I can to those in need. I hope you do the same this Thanksgiving. Celebrate with those around, give what you can, and as always, hug your horses.