Hey, look: WiFi.
It turned out we didn't need to evacuate until today. But the day before yesterday, the roads were all closed. Dad was coming home pver the back way, and it was like driving through a forest fire: trees, brush, and grass aflame, blinding smoke, and infernal heat. Needless to say, we stayed at home. The power went out that evening, and the phone lines went out this morning. I heard thirty poles burned down, and power can't be restored until the fire is under control. As of four hours ago, the total acreage was under 53,000 with 15% containment (still), and 755 personnel. Two weeks would not be an understatement for a time range on power restoration.
The smoke was UNBEARABLE this morning, so we decided to go out of state for clear air. As it happened, the sheriff was directing traffic off the hill. The officer's opinion was that the place should be safe for 10-12 hours (Dad's taking us over amd turning around in case he's needed). He indicated the fire might be in the area of our house by the morning.
So we're off.
We don't have cats packed since Dad's coming back, and my sister is still there. I hope I see my black cat again.
I packed five boxes of books and they're in the basement of the church: one building that will be the last to be surrendered.
Thank you for your prayers-- The hand of God has been obvious. Please continue your prayers, if the thought comes to mind. I don't know what the chances are that my house will go, but the map looks like the area's being surrounded.
i'm not sure how often I'll be in internet range, but, at the moment we are safe.