Slide Fire

It's been a pretty dicey couple of days since someone started the fire just north of Slide Rock Park on May 20th. We saw it go from a few acres to hundreds then thousands of acres. At this time it's over 20,000 acres. The fire moved north, away from Sedona, towards Flagstaff. It did jump a line, but that spot fire has been contained. To date, there has been no loss of structures or human life and that's a beautiful miracle in and of itself. Fighting a fire in canyons with such windy, dry conditions can be a challenge to say the least. 

'Consequences' of the fire:

• We appreciate the beauty we're surrounded by at a deeper level as we're reminded that it can be gone in no time. We know we're in drought conditions. I think most people will be more cautious - for a while. 
  

• Our community has really rallied and shown their generous spirit. A list was put online of things the firefighters could use and before you knew it, they were telling us that they were well-supplied. People were pulling together to help displaced pets. I've seen many signs in front of local businesses showing their support and gratitude to the nearly 1,000 people who put their lives on the line to save our homes and businesses. I've seen posts on Facebook where kids made posters or showed up at the stations to show their support. We are aware and we are grateful!
  

• From death comes rebirth - there's been quite a bit of conflicting information as to the level of destruction of our beloved Oak Creek Canyon and trails. If there's one thing Mother Nature does well, it's regenerate. From this destruction, there will be new life. Flowers, plants and trees will grow again. It may take some time, but it will happen. 
  

I would like to thank all those out there working to contain the fire. I'd also like to thank those who post updates and keep us informed, such as the Slide Fire Information Facebook page. If you would like to see some amazing photos of the Slide Fire go to http://www.jaysoncoil.com/slidefire. He took some shots that show just how close the fire was to some structures. Last, but not least, please keep all those affected by and those fighting the fires in your prayers.   - Adrienne :)