Preparation

Photo by USFS © Genesis+Art

Chelan, Washington  

I speak for both Chuck and I tonight. Yesterday and today have been busy, dangerous days in Railroad Creek Valley. For more than a week, the hotshot crews and our five Holdenites have been preparing the Village for the inevitable: fire coming to the Village, one way or another. The next several days are critical, and though we have been waiting for this time, there is no comfort in its arrival. This fighting-fire-with-fire business has no guarantees.

And so, the complex saga of emotions continues today: confidence in the outcome, sorrow for the forest, worry for the twin fawns and their mother that are still hovering in the Village, gratitude for our community, and admittedly, a-lot-bit scared underneath it all. The tremendous spirit of Holden, its people, the Village, our friends, and our family sustains us in these hours. With much humility, we stand in awe of our staff and the hundreds of you that have sent your prayers and love.

With good courage, Peg

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