Just checking another update from one of the tv stations. LeeJ, last night you'd said you wished you could be there to help but figured they didn't need non-pros running around etc. Looks as though there is a way to help out regardless. For anyone interested, here is what I found:

"Fire fighters say staying out of the area if you don't need to be there is the best thing. They also need food and water for the firefighters. If you can help in that way - please drop your donations at the Coldwell Banker in Aspen Park it is at 26001 Main Street, Conifer.

"The Salvation Army is also helping making sure the firefighters and evacuees have hot meals and water. The Red Cross is helping care for the evacuees displaced by the fire. If you are interested in providing more help please contact either of those organizations."

Here is prayer/poem I wrote in the middle of the night a few years ago when our mountain was afire, just about 3 miles or so from our house:

Casper/Elk Mountain Burning

Fire on the mountain
Terror in my heart
For all the small ones
Caught up in the draught.

Fire on the mountain,br> Tears from my eyes
For all the four-leggeds,
Running, full of fright.

Fire on the mountain
Wind in my hair
Fanning and breathing
Rampant flames to life.

Fire on the mountain
Lightening all around
Struck at the forest heart
Hot, dry, and tinder light.

Fire on the mountain
Hanging clouds of promise
Gray with unfallen rain
Hope of tomorrow's quenching.

Fire on the mountain
Runway of death
Blackened skeletons
In the morning's light.

Fire on the mountain
Prayers on my lips
For men, trees, and creatures
Fighting, burning, running.

Fire on the mountain
No sleep this night
Great Spirit, hear the cries
Send a rain of sweet surcease.
July 5/6, 1994

It has rained throughout the night and day here, LeeJ, I am envisioning the clouds and moisture coming your way. All of you stay safe and know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

kat