Lots of smoke and falling ashes today but so far no real danger at our
house. Dense walls of smoke pass nearby, sometimes blocking out the sun
or turning it into an orange ball. Family and friends have had to flee
their homes, not knowing what they would fine upon their return. So far
all who have returned found they still have homes, some just barely,
with burned vegetation on one or more sides. The firefighters are doing
their best to save any structures that can be saved.

My Vanagons are all safe but will need a major washing when this is
finally over. Whenever I pull back into the driveway I have to wait a
little while for the cloud of stirred up ashes to subside before getting
out or a bunch come inside before I can get out and close the door.
People are wearing dust masks as they drive or walk, even store
employees at the stores that are open. I was just surprised when the
mailman knocked on the door with a box of Vanagon parts from Germany. He
was wearing a mask as well, and said work was voluntary today.

Mark and Anne,
Oceanside

Joy Hecht wrote:
> Thanks, Janet.  I've been listening to the news from the other coast and
> worrying about all of you in California.
>
> I hope you and your homes are safe.  Yeah, yeah, and your vans, but
> priorities are priorities.
>
>
> Joy
>
>
> :::-----Original Message-----
> :::From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
> :::Of Janet Sanford
> :::Sent: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 12:12 AM
> :::To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> :::Subject: Off topic...fires in So Cal
> :::
> :::Well, I live by the beach and it smells like a giant bonfire. My cars are
> :::covered with ash. They sent us home from work today. All schools are
> :::closed
> :::and they told us to stay home from work tuesday.
> :::
> :::My Aunt has her car packed and ready to get the word in Del Mar.
> :::
> :::500 homes gone, 100 businesses, and as of now 45,000 acres burned.
> :::
> :::Think good thoughts for all those who lost their homes and are in
> :::shelters.
> :::
> :::Janet
> :::San Diego
>