Thanks

The helicopter, named "Imelda", with her 50 gallon bucket and water tank.

Late yesterday the air was filled with sirens and the helicopters took to the skies. We are told that the fire burns into the kiawe trees, and down into the roots, where it smolders until a breeze brings it back to life, and the hotspot starts up again. At this point it appears that the fire is above us, up the hill and to the east, so that it is very unlikely that it will be a danger to us again.

About noon today we received an email that some neighbors had planned a potluck dinner for the fire crews. Just as we were about to leave for the firehouse, it began pouring rain -- a happy coincidence.

We joined hands for a blessing.
A giant thank you card with photos, and a gift basket.


Now for the food!



The party was typically Hawaiian. We started by forming a circle, holding hands, with a blessing and thanks. Then the crowd swarmed over the food table, all of it good. It was nice to meet some neighbors, and talk to the fire fighters and the helicopter pilot. A pizza delivery guy arrived with 5 pizzas contributed by the local store. For the hour or so we were there the food kept coming.

Just as we arrived home -- under another tropical downpour -- we heard Imelda overhead again. Apparently she is not finished yet.....