Out of the fire and into the frying pan

Photo by Chuck Hoffman © Genesis+Art

Wenatchee, Washington  

Chuck, Nancy, Marc, and Jeff said goodbye to Andrew “Zumba” Kingsriter early this morning. We "downlakers" welcomed this hero with open arms and Holden hugs. Chief Firefighter Jeff wore his full turnouts for the event! They sent Zumba off with the Prayer of Good Courage, the traditional seven candles, and one additional burned candle to commemorate the fire and their time together. I don't know if that makes me laugh or cry... or, like many Holden things right now, both.

If you are like me, you are also looking at the photos for clues to how the Village is faring. It seems terribly smokey—not so good. Cottonwood tree by the Village Center—check, good. There are many trees on the road, and everything looks wet—good and good. Zumba's end date has arrived—not good. His departure from the Village to head home—good.

The good news is often the bad news: the good news is that Andrew is leaving the Village, and the bad news is that Andrew is leaving the Village. Is it possible that in the end it will be the same with the fire? With God's grace, I'm betting on yes.

Carry on with good courage Andrew, we love you. Peg

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