Tonight, a fire is raging out of control 7 miles from my home. Scores of people have already lost their homes to the High Meadow Fire. It broke out about noon today, and the combination of high temperatures, dry conditions, and high wind have continued to increase the size and intensity of the blaze. Nearby areas, the homes of friends and customers of mine, have been engulfed in flame or evacuated. Many people who were at work in Denver when the fire broke out were barred from returning to their homes, their dogs, cats, horses and all the the things that are most important to them in the world. They sleep in Red Cross Relief Centers or in the homes of friends tonight. From the back porch of my house, where we had hosted Allan and Bill for a beautiful and peaceful night of music 5 days ago, I watched the charcoal and orange shaded smokeclouds billow from behind the ridge. I watched slurry-bombers churn into the smoke to drop their loads on the fire.

It's a time for praying and holding your breath tonight. I hope Rex and his family, who are on Conifer Mountain and several miles closer to the fire than my house, are safe. Send us your positive energy and prayers tonight.