I got a call at work Saturday, a little after three, that my laundry room was on fire. I left immediately. A couple of minutes later, my best friend, there with the kids called and said to call 911. I did.
By the time I got to my house, a third of it was burning. I thought to myself...not to bad. We'll lose the last couple of rooms and have smoke damage. A couple of minutes later, half the house was gone. And the fire had spread to the north pasture. The fireman who arrived on the scene had a first priority to stop the spread of flames. I understand this.
My best friend told me to take the kids to our friend's house. She didn't want the kids to see the house burning. I quickly left.
Two of the chickens didn't even have shoes on. One had slippers. We literally lost everything we had in that house. Everything.
I haven't grieved yet. I'm still holding onto my sanity by a shred. And I have yet to see the site where the house used to stand. I don't think I'll handle it all too well.
Do I care about the towels, cd's, etc. that I lost? Not really.
I care about the outfit I brought all three girls home in. I care about the pictures I can never replace. I care about all the homemade gifts that have been made with little hands and big hearts.
And it hurts like hell.
Everyone in this community at our works has been unbelievably kind and caring. Donations of money and clothes are coming in. Food. Help in every shape and form. I'm incredibly grateful, blessed, and humbled by everyone's generosity.
I'm also so damn tired and frazzled that I can't put together a coherent sentence. As soon as I finish one task...six more open up. It's incredibly wearing. I have a horrific headache that won't go away. I'm so tense that every muscle in my body aches.
And the chickens? Safe. And so well-adjusted that they put their Mama to shame. Because, you see, they are grateful for all this stuff. They think we're rich. Because even stuff that has been gently worn or used is new to them. And they embrace it all with an amazing spirit that lifts mine every day.
Me? I have sad eyes. I can feel them aching in their sockets as I try to get a handle on a situation that has taken the floor from underneath me. Sad eyes that wonder when it'll be okay to be happy again and not worry about what tomorrow brings.
I apologize to all the entrants for my contest. My computer is lost. All my files. All my books on it. Everything. So I'll get to you, I promise. But I'm not sure of timeframe.
We're taking it day by day.
So please keep my family in your thoughts. We appreciate it.
Crystal*
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
16 comments:
Thank God you are all alright! Oh my dear, you need many many strong hugs. I'll send love and luck and hugs. I hope everything goes ok with the insurance company. Were the pets safe? Can I send anything through paypal? I'll buy all your books if it'll help...
Big hug, sweet Chrys. Tons of hugs to the whole farm load of animals you love.
Oh, sweetie, I'm so sorry. *hugs* and prayers. I'm glad you're all safe.
Crystal, I'm so sorry! Thank God you and the chickens are okay, but I feel your pain in every word. Your family and especially YOU are in my prayers.
Ah, Crystal. I'm so sorry. Grateful that you and the chickens are safe, but nonetheless...
Sending *hugs*, prayers, and just plain old good vibes to you.
Take care.
Crystal,
One more thing... I too would be willing to put up a PayPal button. You'll probably stuggle with even the concept of asking for help, but if it comes to that, remember you've got friends out here who can help.
I'm so sorry, Crystal. I only know you through my sister, Joely, but know that you are in my prayers as well as hers.
Huge, huge hugs and condolences! I'm so glad to know you and your girls are safe, though.
Oh honey, I'm so so sorry. I had such hopes that this was just an excerpt from a book I was reading when I first laid eyes on it. Then reality... there are no words. You have your chickens, you have your lives, you have my deepest, most heartfelt sympathies. Give yourself permission to grieve, it is necessary to heal. Be willing to except the help, we want nothing but your peace of mind in return.
Be well,
Beverly
So sorry to hear about all of this!!! Your family comes first, the contest can come later. You need to be there for your family, get things straight.
You'll be in our prayers!!!
Chrys, I'm devastated for you. Please e-mail me at evagale@gmail.com and I'll be happy to help. You, and your chickens are in mine and my family's prayers.
I came over from Joely's. Words are not adequate - so I'll just say I'm sorry. Find strength in those around you. Hug the chickens. And let your friends help.
Oh dear God, Chrys, I can't believe it. My heart is sick for you. If there is anything I can do, let me know. We'll always be here for you.
Chrys*, I'm so deeply sorry. Paypal, I think, is a good idea. E-mail me if there's anything I can do to help. And I'll try to come up with something myself, too. You and chickens are in my thoughts.
I'm stunned, Crystal. And so very, very sorry for you and your family's loss. Thanking the stars for your safety and wishing you strength and optimism in this very tough time.
Oh, Chrys. I'm so sorry to hear it. But thank goodness you and the kiddos are safe. My heart goes out to you. Big hugs and here's hoping that you can get through this tough time.
OMG! What a horrible thing. At least you and your family are safe. I don't know what to add. Prayers will be said. God Bless.
Post a Comment