Hi Everyone,

Thanks for your notes and concern. We were evacuated yesterday and
have been staying with friends. I had time to load up most of my art,
computer, papers and the dogs, help some neighbors, water plants, and
forget some basic things before leaving. I don't think we'll be able
to get back home for at east a couple more days. Our neighborhood is
fine (I think), but the hardest hit area is only about a half mile
away, and the power lines are down and things are a mess. We are
talking five minutes from my house. We have close friends and many
acquaintances who have lost their homes. So far we are only getting
word of mouth news, tv news (erk!) and haven't seen the devastation
first-hand. I know that when we do, the shock will really set in. As
far as I know, there have been no injuries and only pets have
perished. That is a tough one to take, but still minimal compared to
the potential loss of life. The wind was so strong yesterday, that
fire whipped up so fast. We've been on the phone quite a bit, trying
to check in with everyone. Then last night, a Tahoe moment, as a large
bear strolled across the lawns across the street. Stir crazy today...I
have my logbooks, but not my carving tools, and, as they really want
people staying off the streets until they get this thing in hand, this
would be the perfect opportunity to carve. Dang. The smoke has eased
up some this evening, hardly notice it. I guess the copters have
stopped for the day. Just hoping the wind doesn't pick up again.

Gotta go for now, but I'll check in soon, Kel

oh, both businesses are fine.