Fire - Rachelle Gardner

http://authorheatherhart.blogspot.com Heather

I have friends in Colorado Springs as well, and am watching in horror from up here in north Denver. Praying for everyone who is being affected.

http://www.fragmentsandfriends.blogspot.com Christine Dorman / @looneyfilberts

Heather,

Your friends are in my prayers.
Jeff Willett

All of this is devastating and all of the general publics reactions are understandable. The pics resemble a war zone in your own neighborhood. The ultimate “mother of all ironies” is that several of the most sophisticated military air & ground institutions in the entire world are right there – the Air Force Academy, Fort Carson, and NORAD. And they can’t scramble an all-out overkill assault with something as simple as water in their own back yard. I bet if there was a national emergency, they could have 50 planes in the air in less than 30 minutes. I’m just sayin’.
- LC
  
  @Jeff: It’s not like you can tie a hose to an F-15. There are a small number of National Guard C-130s capable of carrying MAFFS (an aerial retardant-delivery system), and they’re already there. Down here in Southern California, we’ve occasionally had Marines out supporting the firelines, but that’s mainly because we have Camp Pendleton. Much of USFS’s aerial attack capability is contracted.
  
  The military is not the fire brigade. They’re not trained or equipped to do that. And the installations closest to the fire (NORAD and USAFA) have no assets capable of fighting fires.
- Yo
  
  You’re a dumbass hippie, naive to reality idiot.

http://www.joannebischof.com/blog/ Joanne Bischof

Wow. It’s just heart wrenching to see everything that’s been going on in Colorado Springs. I’ve been getting bits of news from my publishing house at the WaterBrook offices and it’s so scary to hear of so many needing to be evacuated. Praying for safety for all and for your husband, Rachelle, and his fellow fire fighters on the front lines.

http://www.inspirewriters.com Elizabeth M Thompson

Praying for God’s mercy and a quick end to the fires.

Crystal

Rachelle, I’ve been following your blog for a year or more, and I’ve been following the fire since it broke out on Saturday. I am fond of Colorado Springs, and I grieve with you.

Please know…you have people in Canada praying for you and your State, but especially your city. May God bless and protect your husband, and bring him home safely.

http://gundiva.blogspot.com GunDiva

Stay safe down there. Up here, the fire is mostly terrorizing the mountain towns, but your fire is even more scary – it made it into the city.

Be careful and prayers for your husband and all of the firefighters.

Jeanne

Rachelle, I’ve been praying for your husband as he fights the fires. And for you and your family as you wait for him to come home.

http://erlessard.wordpress.com Lizzy

Those pictures are intense.

I’m glad you’re okay. Sending prayers to everyone up in Colorado Springs, especially your husband.

http://isleofbooks.wordpress.com Shannon

I’m also from Colorado–from Arvada, in the Denver/Boulder area. So far my family at home is safe (I live in California), but it’s so heartbreaking to log onto Facebook and see status after status about the fires, including those from friends who are on ordered pre-evac and are packing. Every day it seems I get a new email from my mom about the fires, including today’s news about the one that sprung up near Boulder, in the Flatirons. I haven’t seen many photos from the Springs area, but that looks just horrible. I used to compete at horseshows at the Penrose Equestrian Center. Also, my last quarter of school I worked on a historical fiction novella set in Colorado Springs. The area definitely now has quite a place in my heart!

http://juliesunne.com Julie Sunne

Praying for relief and for the safety of homeowners and firefighters as well as others caught in the fire’s path.

http://airickaphoenix.com/Author/?cat=10 Airicka Phoenix

Oh my goodness! I am so terribly sorry to hear this Ms. Gardner! I pray for your husband who is bravely doing his best to protect lives and livelihoods and for the unfortunate people without homes to return to tonight.

http://keligwyn.wordpress.com Keli Gwyn

My heart is so heavy. Continuing to pray for those battling the fires as well as the residents.

Leanne

Those pictures are truly terrifying.

My thoughts and wishes are with you and everyone affected.

http://www.meghanward.com/blog Meghan Ward

My brother went to school in Colorado Springs, and I have family in Littleton. I’m not sure how close Littleton is to the fires, but those photos are terrifying. Thinking of you, your husband, and everyone affected by the wildfires in Colorado Springs.

Jeanne

Littleton is about 45-60 minutes north of the fires.

http://www.livehacked.com Nick Thacker

Yup, we’re here too. Wishing your husband the best as he keeps us all safe.

Luckily we haven’t been evacuated yet, but we’re just hoping no one is hurt!

Good luck, and stay safe!
Nick
LiveHacked.com

http://www.fragmentsandfriends.blogspot.com Christine Dorman / @looneyfilberts

Nick,

You and your family are in my prayers. Stay safe.

Kathy

As a Colorado Springs resident seeing these same sights, I’m so, so grateful for your husband and the others up there with him. Praying safety and peace over your family.

http://www.fragmentsandfriends.blogspot.com Christine Dorman / @looneyfilberts

Kathy,

You are in my prayers. Stay safe.
Jeanne

As a fellow resident, I agree!
- http://www.fragmentsandfriends.blogspot.com Christine Dorman / @looneyfilberts
  
  Jeanne,
  
  You are in my prayers too. Stay safe.
  - Jeanne T
    
    Thanks, Christine!
- http://pjcasselman.wordpress.com/ P. J. Casselman
  
  How are you doing now?
  - Jeanne
    
    We are safe. We didn’t have to evacuate. It’s been devastating to see all those who have, to see the flames the other night, knowing people’s homes were burning and lives were forever changed. We’ve gotten a lot of the smoke. With an asthmatic child, this has been a concern, but we’re doing okay. Finding new things to thank God for in the midst of it. We’ve been very fortunate compared to some.

http://drgtjustwondering.blogspot.com Diana Trautwein

I am so, so sorry about this – and it is frighteningly familiar to me. I am a resident of Santa Barbara CA and three years ago, we were evacuated twice in six months due to wildfires like these. I was on the pastoral staff of a church at the time – and the church was in the fire zone as well – we met to worship in a Country Club the first time and a local hotel the second. 20 families in our congregation lost everything – so I know first-hand that this is hard, so hard.

Praying for safety for your husband and all who are struggling to hold the line and save lives and homes. Fires like these rouse fear that feels primal and deeply disturbing – so praying for peace of mind and heart for all of you who live in the middle of it all. Just heartsick to see this. Be well and safe, Rachelle.

http://pjcasselman.wordpress.com/ P. J. Casselman

Father we thank you that we can come to you at all times through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We pray that you will pour forth your mercy upon those in Colorado Springs and all those in the path of these fires. May you protect them and their families and help those fighting the fires to extinguish the destructive flames. We pray for rain and that you will reign throughout this perilous time. Place a protective shield around Rachelle and her family and keep them safe. We put our trust in you, O God, for you have proven your overwhelming love and abundant mercy throughout our lives. May your name be praised.

http://www.booksbyamanda.com Amanda

Amen, PJ!
http://theotherstephenkingonwriting.blogspot.com Stephen H. King

Amen.
- http://enjoyingthewritingcraft.blogspot.com/ Casey
  
  Amen!
http://talesfromtheredhead@blogspot.com Jennifer Major

Amen Pastor.
http://www.josephjpote.com Joe Pote

Amen!
Me

I just gotta ask…if everything is part of god’s plan, than clearly these wildfires are part of it. So why would you pray to make them go away…? It seems to me that if it’s in his plan, than the prayers of the critical few will not trump that of the majority….?
- http://pjcasselman.wordpress.com/ P. J. Casselman
  
  Hi “Me,”
  
  I’m not sure you’re asking a question or trying to make a point.
  
  Not all Christians believe the answer to your question to the same one. I’m Wesleyan, so this answer comes from my theological perspective.
  
  Here is an explanatory analogy:
  
  If I’m sitting on my sofa and I’m hungry, I can be proactive and get up and make something to eat or I can just sit here and passively expect food to drop in my lap. My wife shopped for the groceries, but she expects me to participate by helping to feed myself. Otherwise, I am just one big, passive, lazy lump on the couch.
  God chose to make our prayers and choices a part of His sovereign control of the world he created for us. He does this because he wants us to be actively involved and not passive lumps. Therefore, my participatory prayers are ordained as a part of His miraculous works.
  Faith is both reliance and relationship. When we pray, we acknowledge reliance and our request builds relationship. This is why Jesus said to ask anything in his name–faith and relationship.

http://www.nofailuremoms.com Judy Parker

Oh, Rachelle. Those pictures are truly incredible. Please know there are so many praying for you and your family and all those affected. My husband graduated from the AF Academy and we still have friends there. My heart goes out to you all. Stay safe.

http://thereandbackbytricycle.blogspot.com Cat

As an Australian who has seen the devastation these fires can cause here my heart goes out to you. Thinking of you.

http://www.gabrielle-meyer.blogspot.com Gabrielle Meyer

My sister lives in the Denver area and she’s been keeping me posted about the fires near Colorado Springs. My prayers go out to everyone affected and those fighting.

http://www.murph4slaw.blogspot.com Heidi Murphy

My parents live in Pagosa Springs and are on evac warning right now. I hope you all are safe. I hope my folks don’t lose their house as they love it there.

http://www.fragmentsandfriends.blogspot.com Christine Dorman / @looneyfilberts

Heidi,

You and your parents are in my prayers.

Blessings.

http://www.beckydoughty.wordpress.com Becky Doughty

Rachelle – we are praying. I’m so glad you reminded us that your husband is out there fighting for the lives and homes of so many. Praying for your children as well as I know that this must be a very difficult time for them too.

We love and appreciate you.

http://www.camilleeide.wordpress.com Camille Eide

God bless & watch over you and Brian, Beth Vogt, & others in the path of this thing. Praying God brings a swift end to it. Many of us are doing our best to stay caught up on FaceBook and are continuing to pray for the firefighters and the thousands of families affected. Thank you for sharing.

http://lookingattheson.blogspot.com Nancy

Praying for all of you, especially the firefighters! My son and his family are about five miles from the fire. Their car is packed, just in case the wind shifts. God bless!

http://www.fragmentsandfriends.blogspot.com Christine Dorman / @looneyfilberts

They are in my prayers.

http://bethvogt.com Beth K. Vogt

Even though I’ve seen the ongoing devastation of the Waldo Canyon Fire with my own eyes, these photos still shock me. Incomprehensible … but horrifying true.
Leaning into everyone’s prayers. Appreciate everyone’s support.

http://www.fragmentsandfriends.blogspot.com Christine Dorman / @looneyfilberts

Beth,

You and your family are in my prayers, too. Stay safe.
- http://bethvogt.com Beth K. Vogt
  
  Thank you. We are safe. Leaning into all the prayers.

http://merceyvalley.blogspot.com/ Mercey Valley

We had fires just like this in December last year. My parents’ former home was passed over while houses opposite were scorched or razed. Scary, and very bizzare.

God is with you and doesn’t let go of you for a second, but don’t hang about too long. Parying for peace and safety, especially for your husband.

Tammi T.

Will definitely be praying for you and the other residents there; as well as your husband and many others who are helping fight the fire.

Thank you for making us aware.

http://scwrite.blogspot.com SC Author

Don’t even THINK about doing a blog post! Those pictures make me scared as is…. oh gosh. Hope it all ends well, and good luck to everyone you know down there.

John Sauvé-Rodd (London UK)

The pictures, Rachelle, are terrifying. Apocalyptic in scale. I hope the community and your husband fire-fighting get through this. In rainy Britain we don’t get fires like this; like the American flat-lands tornado and the Caribbean hurricane, huge natural disasters are unknown here.

Quite by accident your posting has me remember one of the most dramatic forest fire descriptions ever in a book: in Shardik by Richard Adams, 1974; Shardik is a giant bear, twice normal size, with connections to pagan divinity; he first appears in the opening chapters, when a forest fire forces him out of the wild lands north.

Has anyone written natural disasters in one of their books?

http://www.suzannebrandyn.com Suzanne

I heard it on the news way down here in Oz. Keep safe. It looks horrible.

http://www.markrhunter.com Mark R Hunter

Keeping you, your husband, and everyone out there in my prayers. I’m a volunteer firefighter here in northeast Indiana, but as bad as our brush fire seasons can get they’re never as bad as what can happen in Colorado. Today is our first Red Flag Warning for as long as I can remember — so I’ll likely be on the lines myself by the end of the day.

Sue

I live in the Springs too on the corner of Vickers and Academy and I watched those houses burn from the apartment complexes yard tonight. Pretty scary.

http://www.melissacrandall.com Melissa Crandall

Those have to be some of the most terrifying images I’ve ever seen. Rachelle, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and friends. May this be over soon. (And a special extra prayer for your husband and the other firemen on the front lines.)

Lanny

We’re praying for you and your family.

http://blessed-are-the-pure-of-heart.blogspot.com Andrew Budek-Schmeisser

Prayers coming from New Mexico.

Wind-driven wildfires are horrific, possessing a demoniac personality rather like Tolkien’s description of a Balrog.

I’ve fought one, and I don’t ever want to do that again.

http://awapara.wordpress.com Patricia Awapara

Those pictures look scary!

My prayers go out to you, your husband and all those who are expose to these fires.

God Bless!

Jana Dean

Prayers for protection and peace…!

Gwen Stewart

Such heartbreaking pictures, Rachelle. I fell in love with Denver and the mountains, so to see such destruction both in wooded areas and near homes is all the more horrible.

I’ve kept your family, and especially your husband, in my daily prayers. God bless you all.

John Sauvé-Rodd (London UK)

I like this:

Wind-driven wildfires are horrific, possessing a demoniac personality.

http://talesfromtheredhead@blogspot.com Jennifer Major

It seems so trivial, all the contract this and POV that when fire is on your doorstep and your husband is out there.

God bless you all.

http://4broadminds.blogspot.com/ carol brill

somehow your pictures make it so much more real than the evening news. Sending my Prayers and thoughts

http://Www.renew-ministries.com Robin Gilbert Luftig

Rachelle -

I am sorry you and your family are close to harms way. Praying for you and your family.

http://www.michaelinfinito.com Otin

I’ve been to Colorado Springs and to me it was one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited. It is so sad to see these pictures. I pray that your husband and everyone else stays safe.

Nancy Kay Bowden

If your photos weren’t frightening, I’d say they are brilliant.

Every few months while traveling the kid-goes-to-college route I am awed by what’s left (or gone or what’s been rebuilt) after the destructive fires in the Bastrop, Texas area. Many charred, dead trees have been brought down; there are more to come. Wild flowers are springing up where forest was.

You and your family and all those in Colorado Springs and other areas dealing with fire are in my prayers. May your husband be safe! He is a hero.

http://michaelseese.blogspot.com/ Michael Seese

Rachelle –

My thoughts are with you, and especially your husband.

Michael

http://www.sharonalavy.com Sharon A Lavy

Dear Lord, our heavenly Father look down on Colorado Springs and keep the people safe. Those who are fighting the fire, those who are losing homes.

Be especially near to our sister-in-Christ, Rachelle Gardner, her husband and family as they go through this crisis with the people in their community.

Bless them, care for them, and give them peace as they reach out to the others in their community.

We love You, honor and reverence You, our Holy, Awesome God. amen.

http://www.booksbyamanda.com Amanda

Amen, Sharon.
http://www.sueharrison.com Sue Harrison

Yes, Lord.
- http://enjoyingthewritingcraft.blogspot.com/ Casey
  
  Amen.

http://www.kathleenheady.com Kathleen Heady

Very frightening! I will certainly keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers.
My parents were married in Colorado Springs in 1942, so it always has a special place in my life.

http://www.twitter.com/josephjoebaran Joseph Baran

Incredible photos, Ms. Gardner. I can sense your uneasiness, looking at the pictures as they say what a thousand words could not. May God keep your husband and everyone else at the front line safe. I hope your ten-mile buffer gives you some peace and that you won’t lose your home. I know, easier said than done. Try to stay safe and God will see you through. God bless all!

http://www.terridedgezelle.com Terri DeGezelle

Thoughts and prayers for you and your family and those affected by the fires.

http://www.perrincothranconrad.com Perrin Conrad

Rachelle, I am praying for you, and for your husband and his co-workers out there. My husband is a firefighter in Charleston, SC, so I have an idea of what you might be feeling right now.

http://www.trudymetzger.com Trudy Metzger

Will continue praying for you, for your husband, friends and the entire community. So sorry this is happening. It looks horrific. Praying for safety.

http://www.booksbyamanda.com Amanda

It truly does seem that POV and other whatnots should be left off for the time being so we as a group can hold Colorado up in prayer. You and your family are heavy in my thoughts, and I pray God will keep you all protected and safe. In the face of such extreme circumstances, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and lost, and that perhaps a prayer isn’t much. But, we serve a big God who listens and answers the prayers of the most insignificant. I just wish there was something else I could do.

http://www.CherylRainfield.com Cheryl Rainfield

I hope that the fire gets put out very soon, and that everyone stays safe, It looks absolutely frightening. Sending you good thoughts. Know that people care.

http://thompsonkelly.wordpress.com/ Kelly Thompson

We have friends in Colorado Springs and Estes Park impacted by the fires, and a buddy who’s a wildland firefighter from Montana who’s down there working. Here’s hoping you and your family stay safe. Thoughts are with you.

http://theotherstephenkingonwriting.blogspot.com Stephen H. King

Rachelle, my thoughts are with you.

Lynn F. Casella

It’s frightening and in CA, we live every day with the reality of being burned out. My brother lost his home in the Malibu fire that marched from the SF Valley to the sea, but rebuilt a beautiful house with added sprinkler system for the roof and his house was on the beach. I woke up today to 5 helicopters whirring overhead…excitement a bear sleeping in a tree nearby. Took a drive for an errand and watched a brush fire billowing white smoke in the air, but it was luckily put out quickly. Danger lurks everywhere..main thing is have a plan and support our firefighters.

Pam M.

Praying for rain and miracles from the Lord to stop the fires.

http://publishness.blogspot.com/ Angela Brown

Please continue to stay safe. I experienced my first wildfire a month after moving to San Diego a few years back. My prayers are with you and all those having to deal with the devastation.

http://www.sueharrison.com Sue Harrison

Walking in constant prayer for all of you, Rachelle. Love & Tears, Sue

http://www.cattapanscookies.blogspot.com Amy

Ten miles away!?! Didn’t you say yesterday on Twitter they were 12 miles away? Ack! They’re getting closer.

The local morning news is discussing the fires right now.

Sending prayers from Chicago . . .

http://www.dezinesource.com Leanne Fournier

Sending prayers from Canada.

http://Www.summerjarviswrites.com Summer

Wow…praying…my husband is a fire fighter too, but we haven’t had any fires like that around here, thankfully. I will be praying for his safety.

http://angiemizzell.com Angie Mizzell

When I saw it on the news, I thought about you and wondered how you and your family were doing. Thank you for letting us know. I can’t imagine what it must be like to be so close to the destruction.

http://www.kerriansnotebook.com Patti Phillips

Praying, praying, praying for you and your brave husband and your precious children. Dear friends of mine were in the Bastrop, TX fires last year. Ten miles is too close. Please stay safe.

http://thoughtsthatmove.blogspot.com/ Wendy Paine Miller

I’ve never seen anything like that. I keep scrolling up to look again.

Thoughts = with you & others in CO.
~ Wendy

http://livingthebodyofchrist.blogspot.com/ Connie Almony

Praying for your husband, family and your community!

James Larsen

We’re Laramie WY residents and have ties to Colorado Springs via the Military – this is absolutely horrible. We’re living in Australia at the moment and am deeply concerned about the rest of the Summer if the fire season is this bad this early. Prayers are with all of you in the Springs.

http://showknowgrow.com Melinda Viergever Inman

Praying, Rachelle. I have family there, too. What a frightening time! God bless you. Keep safe.

http://www.colindsmith.com/blog Colin Smith

Those pictures are both sad and awe-inspiring. Incredible. May the Lord be with you and your family, Rachelle. May He bless and protect your husband and all the other brave fire fighters as they try to contain this monster blaze. Indeed, I pray that He will protect the lives and homes of all those in danger. Keep safe!

http://rmabry.com Richard Mabry

Praying for all concerned.

http://Www.loripotter.com Lori

Oh my gosh!!!! Colorado Springs is such a beautiful city too! My heart really aches for all of you right now. I don’t have the resources to give to Red Cross at the moment, but I can definitely pray! Lord, let there be a complete reversal of this invasive fire, totally contained and extinguished in Jesus’ name! Let every fire fighter be filled with Your wisdom, operating effectively and safely, and let every home, business, ministry and public service building be surrounded with protection and shielded from all harm! AMEN. God bless you Rachel!! <3

http://denisepetrey.net Denise

Rachelle: God bless you and all those whom are affected. As Greg Braden says: We pray for the victims, the perpetrators, and the witnesses, or in this case, the woodlands, the firefighters, and the residents. I hope you remain safe and see the other side of this catastrophe very soon.

http://cherylbarker.blogspot.com/ Cheryl Barker

Colorado has been in my prayers, Rachelle, and will continue to be. We live in SE KS, and we’ve vacationed in CO many, many times. It’s close to my heart — and my heart goes out to you all right now. Prayers for you and your family, and especially safety for your husband. Please be careful!

Susan Bourgeois

I thought of you immediately when I first noticed the fire on the news.

It must be scary. The pictures capture the magnitude of the strength of the wildfires.

I’m familiar with evacuation with the numerous past hurricanes I’ve experienced in Louisiana and Florida, where I now reside.

It is unsettling when you have to constantly monitor treacherous conditions.

I know this must be stressful for your family.

My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.

http://www.fragmentsandfriends.blogspot.com Christine Dorman / @looneyfilberts

Rachelle,

I knew about the fires and have been praying for everyone affected, but I didn’t know that you’re husband was a firefighter. He and your family will be especially in my prayers.

http://www.cindyrwilson.com Cindy R. Wilson

Rachelle, I will be praying for you and your family and all the others in Colorado, including my dad and his fiance (and her family). We can see the smoke in the sky from here in Littleton, and I feel so bad for everyone who’s had to evacuate. Will definitely be praying!

http://www.katieganshert.com/blog Katie Ganshert

Praying for you and your hubs, the rest of the heroic firefighters, for Beth, for everyone at Waterbrook/Multnomah, and for miraculous miraculous rain!

http://hollydroo.wordpress.com/ Holly Russell

Father, You who knows all our needs, please be with the people of Colorado. People’s lives and homes are in danger Father. The firefighters must feel like they are up against a monster that is too big to contain. Be with them and give them hope. But You, our Father, know how to bring Beauty from ashes, and so you will prevail over this tragedy as well. The fire is intense, the blaze is hot, please touch every family who is touched by this fire with your Holy Spirit of peace. Shalom upon all of them.

Amen

Stephanie M.

Prayers for all those in harm’s way.

http://www.marcykennedy.com/blog Marcy Kennedy

One of my husband’s oldest friends (who was a groomsman in our wedding) as well as my brother-in-law live there. Our friend’s in-laws were evacuated safely, but have already lost their home to the fires. The situation and all involved are in my prayers.

Turney

thoughts and prayers being sent…

http://www.peaceforthejourney.com elaine @ peace for the journey

Just wanted you to know that my prayers and thoughts are with all living in your area . . . all of creation that is breathing in the threat of fire and destruction. May the God of all comfort, strength, wisdom, and grace fall as fresh rain upon the soil of your heart, soul, and land.

peace~elaine

http://www.anemulligan.com Ane Mulligan

Praying for everyone there. We have a couple of friends who live out there, too.

http://www.henwoodtitles.weebly.com Brian Henwood

My thoughts and prayers go out to you and you family, and all the families impacted by this tragedy.

http://www.HolEssence.com Laurie Buchanan

Rachel – I have three sisters-in-law in your same geographic location. We’re keeping you ZIPPED IN THE POD: http://holessence.wordpress.com/2011/03/03/zipped-in-the-pod/

http://katieleigh.wordpress.com Katie @ cakes, tea and dreams

Adding my prayers to the chorus. Hope your husband, especially, stays safe.

http://karenzach.com Karen Spears Zacharias

Praying protection for all those firefighters, and for those fleeing homes and farms and for all those animals who can’t flee fast enough.

http://annbracken.weebly.com Ann Bracken

My prayers are with you, and especially your husband. What amazing people they are, running in to a place most of us run from, in order to keep us safe.

I’m across the mountains from you and we’re all nervous here, knowing we could be next. There are fires to the south. Let’s all pray for rain with no lightning!

http://www.jessicanelson.net Jessica Nelson

I’m glad you and your family are okay but am praying for others! Thanks for the update.

http://lindsayharrel.blogspot.com Lindsay Harrel

Praying for everyone who is affected! I cannot even imagine.

http://enterthewriterslair.blogspot.com Mary Ruth Pursselley

We’ll be praying for you, Rachelle.

http://simplyjan.wordpress.com Jan Culpepper

Praying for the safety of your family and home, for those imminently threatened by this fire, and especially for those on the front line, like your husband.

http://www.lynnrush.com Lynn Rush

Oh my word. Those pictures are amazing. So scary! I lived in Castle Rock during the Hayman fires and that was scary These seem so much worse.
Stay safe!

http://gwengardner.blogspot.com Gwen Gardner

Rachelle, I’m up in Florissant and my daughter’s in Woodland Park. So tired of all the fires and smoke, but glad no lives are lost. I was interviewed yesterday from the DA’s office about an arsonist up here. Hope they get her (rumored to be a “her”). Hope your house makes it and glad you’re okay:)

Arlene Coulter

I never met you, just heard of you at ACFW Conference last year, but I’m joining the others here in prayer for you and your family, Rachelle. May our loving heavenly Father grant you all peace and safety, working His perfect will out in your lives.

Madeline

It must terrifying where you live even if you’re ten miles away. I hope the firefighters get it under control before the fire reaches you. We totally understand that you can’t find anything to write about. Honestly, I would be scared out of my mind even if it was that far. With the wind the fire can travel fast.
We’ll all be praying for you.

Glenda Fowlow

Praying hard for y’all today. Be strong and courageous!

http://www.artesianministries.org Donna Pyle

Praying for safety, strength, and peace of mind for you, Brian, your sweet kiddos, and all involved. Sending lots of hugs and love, my Friend.

http://enjoyingthewritingcraft.blogspot.com/ Casey

I’ve been watching the progress of this fire with terrifying fascination. Was (and will continue) praying for your peace of mind, husband’s safety and the safety of my friends there who have had to evacuate.

http://www.savannahchase.com Savannah Chase

Keeping you and everyone in my prayers. Just looking at the pictures is scary and heartbreaking.

http://www.claricejames.com Clarice James

I am praying for you all–most especially the firefighters.

http://heathersunseri.com/blog Heather Sunseri

You were one of the first people I thought of this morning as I watched with horror the news. I was pretty sure you lived in this area. Praying for you, your husband, family and everyone in that area affected by this.

http://myplacebythesea.blogspot.com/ Mary Curry

Rachelle,
Thank you. This is the most important blog post you could have done today. We’ve been thinking of you, worrying, and praying for all of you.

I hope knowing you are lifted in so many prayers helps you stay strong.

http://youngaspiringwriter.blogspot.com/ Chihuahua Zero

Wow. Those pictures. It’s a sight that can’t be seen where I live, but it must feel terrifying being around, with smoke and yellow light obscuring part of the sky.

http://my.tbaytel.net/bonnieheather/index.htm Bonnie Ferrante

I’m so sorry to hear about the fires. We’ve had the opposite problem in communities around Lake Superior – flash flooding due to incredible rainfall. I wonder if this is just the beginning of the backlash for decimating the global ecosystem.

http://www.isthatyoulord.blogspot.com Shelly

We went through a similar exerience last year in Texas. My prayers are with all of you. Praying that God will send rain and be a very present help (and refuge and strength) in your time of trouble.

Leslie

Prayers for you, your family, and your neighbors to be protected, to stay strong, and to remember that this,too, shall pass.

Loree Huebner

Praying for you, your family, your hubby and crew, and your neighbors. Stay safe.

http://jilldomschot.com Jill

I’m married to fireman, too, and know how you must feel. And I’m so sad about Colorado Springs, such a beautiful place. May God take care of your family and the others living in the area.

http://ashleybazer.weebly.com Ashley Bazer

While I live in Burlington, CO, I have family in the Colorado Springs area and I grew up on those mountains. We are praying non-stop. Many heartfelt thanks for what your husband is doing. He is wrapped up in our prayers as well. We so appreciate his efforts in fighting these terrifying flames.

Douglas Thompson

I live in southern California and see these wildfires on a regular basis. Three years ago the fire came down the hillside to the bottom of our street and we had to evacuate. The process of having to evacuate brings the importance of “things” into focus. Photos, letters & cards…basically the people in your life and your connections and memories of them jump to the front of the “can’t leave behind” line. God Bless you, your family and friends and that brave husband of yours. You are in my prayers.

http://www.startingthedialgoue.wordpress.com Laura Diane

Prayers for your husband, your friends, your family and all in the area. I’ve experienced fires in So. CA and Idaho, not anything about them is fun, but communities find ways to share and come together during these times of stress.

Your community here is very supportive and of course our thoughts, prayers, and funds are with the victims of such tragedies.

http://jmloftus.wordpress.com Jessica Loftus

I’m praying for that area. I’ve already lived through seeing my own home burn down and I hope you were able to get all the important things together and ready to go in case it comes to your family to evacuate. I hope it doesn’t get to that point but I hope you’re family is prepared. I’ll be praying for your family and your husbands safety.

http://www.sheeptotheright.com Carol Hatcher

Praying for the safety of your husband and the others fighting the fires, as well as those whose homes are affected. I’m so sorry. Blessings from Atlanta,

Carol Hatcher

http://www.authorcynthiaherron.com Cynthia Herron

Rachelle, weeping as I type this…Prayers continuing!

http://jeanettesandersen.blogspot.com/ Jeanette

Prayers to all Colorado Springs and your husband for his safety.

http://klparry.com K.L. Parry

Hi Rachelle,
Living in California, I’m very familiar with wild fires. Scary stuff when you’re watching the mountains all around you burn. I’ve seen first hand the devastation it can cause. We here have to remind our selves that it is how this eco-system works. My prayers go out to you and those affected and to the firefighters and their families.

I have also lived in Black Forest and Colorado Springs when I was a girl. In fact my youngest sister was born there in the 60′s.
Several years ago I had planned a road trip that was to include a stop in the Springs but a freak spring snow storm had me re-routing on the fly. My sister and I never made it.

Lori

Rachelle,

I hope you and your family will be safe. All of you are in my prayers especially your brave husband.

Julie Scorziell

I’m so sorry to see that you’re going through this. Having been through two of the largest fires and evacuations in California, I feel for you. God is in control, though, even if it doesn’t seem like it. On the night the Old Fire was expected to hit a populated area of our mountain, a freak fall snowstorm arrived and put the fire out instead. When we saw a map of the fire zone later, it looked like a giant hand had been placed over the area that had been protected. There was no question whose hand that was!

Check out Isaiah 61, especially verse 3, which says the Lord gives beauty for ashes, and please know that you and Colorado Springs are in our prayers.

Maril Hazlett

Prayers for all of you in Colorado.

My husband is a firefighter as well.

http://robinpatchen.com Robin Patchen

Praying for your family and your city. What seems out of control to us is fully within God’s control. I pray he will snuff out these fires quickly, and I pray that through this tragedy, He will be glorified.

http://patriciastoltey.blogspot.com Patricia Stoltey

Firefighters (God bless them) are the most beautiful men and women in the world, and no one knows it better than we Coloradoans this summer. Having weathered the worst of the High Park Fire up here in the north, we’re now shocked and saddened by what’s happening in Colorado Springs and Boulder and other burn areaa across the state. We’ll keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ruth-A-Taylor/112941348748036 Ruth Taylor

I feel ya. The Houston skies were veiled with smoke for days when we had wild fires last year. Central and West Texas were the worst hit.

Lifting you, your family, friends and the people of Colorado up in prayer.

http://joylenenowellbutler.com joylene

Oh my lord. The photos are frightening, yet breathtaking. We live in an forest fire area. My best wishes go out to you and everyone involved. Very scary.

Andy Mullaly

Hope everyone is ok. My cousin evacuated last night and was pretty certain her house was going to burn down. Here in San Diego we know exactly what you guys are going through with 2 enormous fires in the last decade. The most important thing is to remain safe and remember what is important.

http://catherinemjohnson.wordpress.com Catherine Johnson

That is frightening! Praying for you and your family. I hope your husband stays safe.

Julia Reffner

Rachelle,

My prayers go out today to your family. We are so grateful to the bravery of men and women like him in these crises. I’ll be keeping you, Beth’s family, and so many others in prayer. I hope your kids are doing well.

http://www.lisajordanbooks.com Lisa Jordan

No words…

Praying with a heavy heart to a mighty God!

http://kristinlaughtin.blogspot.com Kristin Laughtin

I am glad you are safe and will pray that no more homes or lives are lost.

Dolores E. Green

Heather,

My prayers are with you Honey and for all of those being affected by this tragedy. I have a dear friend there as well so we are all praying for you!! God Bless, keep, and protect you and all of your family and friends and put and stop to this fire…

Dolores

Mel

I lived in Colo. Springs for 8 years (since moved to back to Denver) and lived in a few homes in Rockrimmon and Mountain Shadows, from what I have heard from friends, the homes have been destroyed. Glad that you and your family are safe! Sending lots of prayers to your husband and all firefights that are trying to contain all 12 fires that currently burn in the state. Godspeed.

http://4ambassadorsofchrist.blogspot.com/ Jarm Del Boccio

I’m saying a prayer for all involved…thank you for making it more real with your photos. I had no idea it was so close to the residential area!
Brave men are fighting those fires…thank the Lord for them!

Melissa

My prayers are with all involved in these terrible wildfires. My brother and his wife live in Woodland Park and have evacuated their home early. It may not reach there, but just the ash and smoke is bad enough. I am praying they will get the fires under control and for the safety of the fire fighters.

http://careann.wordpress.com Carol J. Garvin

Both fire and water are useful elements, but their extremes are devastating. There are such terrible floods and blazing infernos in the States right now! It’s impossible to comprehend the horror. I wish Colorado could import Florida’s rain.

I’m praying… for you (and for your home) and especially for the safety of your husband.

http://www.mattersoftheheart-chronicillness.blogspot.com Nichole Hall

My heart hurts for you and your family. Prayers going up for all who are affected by this devastation.

http://www.josephjpote.com Joe Pote

Praying for you and all the others dealing with the wildfires, Rachelle.

I have family located near Colorado Springs who have evacuated, leaving a home and a business in harm’s way.

Also, other family members located nearby…

http://www.kristaphillips.com Krista Phillips

Those pictures are horrific. Praying for you all like crazy today!!! You’re in our thoughts!

http://candidkerry.wordpress.com Kerry Johnson

Please know that we are praying without ceasing in Tampa.

Heartbroken that our flooded streets and yards can’t help your state and extinguish the fires. Praying for God’s care and protection for your hubby and all the firefighters, and peace and safety for those evacuating.

Dara

Praying for you and the entire area. My heart breaks for those who have lost everything. I hope that God sends rain soon!

Sarah Schirmer

It is so hard to describe how I feel seeing those pictures of buring houses and streets. We’ve just visited Cathy and Jeff 4 months ago. Saw nice neighborhood, nice houses and several sight seeing places such as Garden of God. Who could predict in 4 months these all turned to ashes? This definitely makes me think hard what is most important in life. We pray for all residents and fire fighers. Pray for your health and safety.

http://www.authorpeterdehaan.com/ Peter DeHaan

I’m glad to know you’re all right.

(No one will fault you for not doing a regular post today. Besides we’ll just have more to look forward to next time!)

Be safe; be well.

LC

Best wished to you and your family. We regularly have small-to-medium wildfires around here, so I can relate.

If anyone plans to donate to the American Red Cross: please keep in the mind that the most useful thing you can give ARC is money. Blankets, toys, clothes and so on are all very nice, but they’re a pain in the butt (and expensive) to transport and often aren’t the things that the people in the area need. (Remember the fur-coats-to-Florida debacle back in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew). Money lets ARC buy whatever is most needed and to support their own people responding to the emergency.

http://www.awomansview.typepad.com Lenore Buth

May God keep Brian safe and you and your girls, too. May He give you His peace, which passes all human understanding, as you wait for this horror to end.

Our hearts and our prayers are with you all.

http://www.awriterspresence.com Mary Anne Benedetto

Many prayers for Colorado residents whose homes are threatened and for Florida flood victims as well. Prayers also going up for firefighters and crews assisting in both disasters. May everyone be safe.

http://ourjourneyhome.net Melanie N. Brasher

Praying for you and your family.

http://www.teawithtiffany.com Tiffany Stuart

You and your family are in my heart every single day. If you need anything, our home is here and NOT in the pre-evacuation area. Or I have room for your dog if needed. Text me or call if you need anything. xo

http://www.mjdonnery.com MJ Donnery

Rachelle -

You are in my thoughts and prayers…peace

Jen Zeman

This is so awful. Please stay safe.

http://www.keithkreager.com/index.html Keith Kreager

Thinking about you. Take care and stay safe.

http://tobisummers.blogspot.com Tobi Summers

Listening to and watching the coverage has been breaking my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family (and everyone affected).

LLKing

Oh, Rachelle! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and everyone affected by this disaster.

http://www.heatherdaygilbert.blogspot.com heatherdaygilbert

So many prayers are being lifted for everyone in the path of the fires. Praying God will do a miracle to stop them.

http://redroom.com/member/jm-cornwell J M Cornwell

I had no idea you lived in Colorado Springs. I do as well and here in Old Colorado City the streets are much quieter and we all look to the west when we are outside. The end of the evacuation line is about a mile from my house. I keep working and looking and smelling the burning, but I’m here. My prayers are with your husband as he battles the fires and with your family while you wait and pray.

http://michaboyett.com Micha Boyett

Rachelle, so so scary. Praying for your husband and your girls. And for you. Peace…

http://www.rachellewrites.blogspot.com Rachelle Christensen

I’m thinking and praying for you and all those affected by fires right now. I live in Utah and although we’re 40 miles from the nearest fire, the smoky air and filtered sunlight is an ever-present reminder of those working to stop the fires. God bless your husband and all the amazing firefighters.

http://www.Heartswithapurpose.com Darlene Lund

This is late getting here, but prayers “for rain” and safety from many of us in MI have been offered up.

God’s grace to you and your family and thanks to your husband,

Darlene

http://ibischild.blogspot.com marion

Hi, Rachelle,
Haven’t checked your blog in a few days–obviously!
Not a restful weekend coming up for you, I guess–and certainly not for your brave hubby.
God bless you and your hubby and your co-workers and everyone in that area. We’re seeing pictures on the international news in Egypt. Ridge after ridge engulfed in flames. Terrifying. And your pix give the close-up.

http://www.rebastanley.com Reba

Certainly have been praying for ya’ll, now will pray for the safety of your husband also.

http://www.SpiritsOfBelleviewBiltmore.com BonSue Brandvik

Rachelle – You are facing my number one fear – being helpless in the face of an impending crisis.

Mother Nature has an cynical sense of humor. As you watch your fires and pray for rain, here in FL, we broke all preexisting rain records… well over 12 inches in one day. We have an underground drainage system at our home that pipes excess groundwater to the street and the floodwater was hitting the grated street opening so hard that it shot straight up into the air. We had a 2-3 foot water fountain at the street for most of the day.

Unfortunately, like body fat, you can’t donate your excess to those in need, no matter how much you would want to do so. We just have to watch helplessly and hope that Mother Nature tires of her joke sooner than later. I will keep you in my thoughts and hope you & yours are spared.

As for writing, I believe you should not write for a few days. Instead watch, listen and absorb as much of the experience as possible. When the worst of the crisis passes, you will have acquired: 1)a whole host of three-dimensional characters, 2) the ability to write more believable tension/danger scenes, and 3) the ability to write stronger dialogue when trying to convey empathy, bravery, hopelessness, helplessness, anger and/or optimism.

Most of all, remember: there’s nothing quite like watching the local news to remind you that your personal glass is still half full. Hang in there!

April Kempler

So sorry and horrified by the fire. I have gone through this myself when a fire terrorized my small community. By comparison thousands of homes were saved with only a few burned to the ground. Sadly, there was one fatality. I wrote my story for Yahoo!Contributor and I’m posting it here, not for any type of promotion, but to share my story. Please read if you wish to. Thoughts and prayers are with everyone, especially you and yours Rachelle. Best.

http://voices.yahoo.com/caughlin-fire-rages-out-control-10499229.html?cat=49

Calla Jacobson

Just wanted to ask you to thank your husband. I live on the edge of Garden of the Gods and was evacuated, though it was only mandatory for a short time. Spent the last week in our primitive cabin in the mountains (no electricity, internet, or plumbing), west of Denver to get out of the heat and smoke. My husband fought forest fires in his younger days, long before I knew him. I have a quite renewed and intense appreciation for firefighters and the work they do. Waking up at 3 a.m. to drive away from everything we own just took the heart out of me. But we feel very lucky and very, very sad for those who were faced not just with the possibility but the actuality of losing their homes. And grateful to those who worked so hard to protect our city and our landscapes.

But it is exhausting and disruptive to worry for so long.

K-eM

Please hug your husband and give him a MASSIVE thank you from me. Because of him and the others, I still have a home.

After we were allowed back home and I saw how close it came to us, I could envision where they stood and fought to keep it from advancing into our neighborhood as it devastated the neighborhood to the south and came right up to the homes to the north. I am so very, very grateful for him and all the others.

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