Thursday, August 20: As I write this we are surrounded by fire. Last night one came dangerously close to a friend’s house. The last email we got from him was:
“I’m relaxed and confident up till when the sheriff knocks on the door.”
To which another friend wrote: Just remember to say to the sheriff “I’d like to get some sleep before I travel. But if you got a warrant, I guess you’re gonna come in.” They really love that.
At least we haven’t lost the most important thing: a sense of humor.
Unfazed my mysterious plant continues to grow. The spores I noted the other day:
Have started to blossom:
Friday, August 21, 2020: The fires continue to drive people from their homes primarily north of here in the wine country and south in the beautiful Santa Cruz mountains. There are so many fires in the state, that those in remote areas are allowed to burn. We are supposed to keep our windows closed because of the poor air quality however I was raised by smokers and so far, that’s what the air is like. Stuck inside a tin-can trailer with a chain smoker. On the bright side, the temperatures have cooled. And, there is an outside chance of rain from the remnants of a passing hurricane. So, thank you all for your good wishes! They seem to be working!
Meanwhile Joel’s plant continues to grow and blossom. And we still have no idea what it is.
Saying Nothing in Particular 
I’m with you, Jan, up in Wine Country, trying to breathe and hoping for the best for my friends and neighbors, firefighters and first-responders. Fortunately the fires skipped over my house. I’m too familiar with the evacuation scene, and looking forward to the day when our commander-in-chief believes in science again so we can turn climate change around. Until then, wishing you and your friend the best, and appreciating your sense of humor and terrific writing.
Thanks Jet! I’m so happy the firestorm skipped over you guys! Whew. My friend was also very lucky. We have to get rid of that idiot in the WH.
Oh my. Stay safe, ok?
Btw that little thing you have in the garden, which isn’t that little any more, reminds me of sth I’ve seen near the volcanoes.
That makes sense – it seems to really like all the smoky air!
I guess. Take care. Keep us posted.
What’s “sth?”
Something. I’m using dictionary abbreviations.
Sb=somebody…
Ah. Thank you.
I admire your ability to remain calm during what is so far just a huge inconvenience. I’m hoping for the best for you and your region. Also, loves me some Quick Draw McGraw so that made me smile.
Growing your own magic wands I see.
Real Time Fire Update:
https://www.arcgis.com/apps/Embed/index.html?webmap=df8bcc10430f48878b01c96e907a1fc3&extent=-130,35,-100,45&zoom=true&previewImage=false&scale=true&legendlayers=true&disable_scroll=true&theme=light
I saved that link from prior CA fire watches.
I hope all is well. Stay safe.
I know what it’s like being stuck in a house with a chain smoker. OY.
Wishing you more rain. We continue to have daily heat-induced showers…always when I want to walk in the evening.
LOVE the Dead reference. One of my favorite songs.
I’m going to try my level best to figure out that plant.
I still say that plant is a tryphid! I am praying hard for you and all your friends and neighbours. 1 that you are all safe and the fires are sorted soon, and 2 that the abomination in White House is outed soon! I wonder if he is related to the Tryphid ? Stay safe, sending love 💜