Saturday, May 10, 2008

To Mark the Day

A year ago today a forest fire started that took out ten percent of this tiny island. At one point it threatened the town. Most of the residents fled. (If you want to see the scary pictures, just Google "Catalina fire.")


Two days later, the island was empty of all but firefighters (lots!), residents supporting the firefighters, and those of us too stubborn to leave. Oh, and the wildlife.



These pelicans are enjoying a beach that is generally too cluttered with humanity for their comfort. The constant whup-whup-whup of helicopters ferrying water from the ocean to drop on the fire didn't seem to bother them at all.



Winter rains and winds have swept away the black ash that covered the town. And gorgeous flowers have bloomed this spring in the burn areas. But one doesn't quite forget.

2 comments:

Delighted Hands said...

Yes, fires are raging just 45 minutes away from us...we are very respectful of the tenuous state of dry forests. (And no, we aren't in the danger zone so I sleep fine each night but do not take the safety for granted-one fool with a lit cigarette from the car is all it takes.....)

Sharon said...

Growing up in East San Diego County, I am painfully aware of fire. Its heartbreaking to see the fires recur year after year. BTW, you're the only person besides myself that I know of who has read Archy and Mehitabel and I haven't thought of it in years!