I realized, it has been a while since I posted any photos, or something uplifting, or ??? So, first, the photograph — two bull elephant seals fighting.

Second, something uplifting — remember the celebration tomorrow at the Spirit Garden at Loma Vista. Music, dancing, and a celebration of Big Sur Rising. I wish I could be there — but my life-before-the-fire (and the courts) dictate that I cannot.

Third, ??? — a thought … I do not know if my life will ever be the same, again. It is hard for me to get back to whatever passes for normal, up here, on a mountain top, in the middle of no where. My priorities are shifting. Perhaps, in six months, when the nightmare has faded, my friends rebuilding, and the courts are off my back, I will simply be another thread in this tapestry of the story that has unfolded. That is my hope.

Fourth, fire stats:

Acres burned: 152,211

Acreage increase (last 12 hours): 2,287

Fireline to build: 0 miles

Date started: 6/21/2008

Percent contained: 79%

Expected containment: 7/30/2008

Injuries: 9

Structures threatened: 1627

Structures destroyed: 26 residences, 32 other

Last, just in case you did not see this healing series being offered, I repost it here:

Dear Big Sur Family and Friends,

The Art of Living Foundation, an International Educational and Service Organization, will be offering a free trauma and stress release program to the Big Sur Community.

This is a great opportunity to release the stress and get some freedom from the intense feelings that have accumulated in our bodies, hearts and minds due to the Big Sur fires.

Many people have expressed this need. We have found this to be so useful in our own lives and are so happy to be able to share it with our community.

The Course will take place on Friday evening, August 1st 6-8 pm Saturday and Sunday August 2nd and 3rd, 9 am -1 pm and Monday evening, August 4th 6-8pm

A commitment to all 4 sessions is needed to attend.

Also we will be having 3 different, meditations guided by the voice of His Holiness, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. His voice alone has the ability to sooth and calm the spirit immensely.

No experience is needed to enjoy the Meditations and all are encouraged and welcome to come. These will be held at Nataraj Yurt 5pm-6pm,Friday August 25th, Mon. 28th, and Wed. August 30th.

To get more information or to RSVP for the course, Contact Hyson or Iris at 667-2827 or hyson@toast.net