June 9, 2012

Today was National Get Outdoors Day...except once again large, run away wildfires send their smokey fingers across the state as firefighters struggle to create a fireline around the raging inferno that already covers 40 square miles and threatens the town of Capitan, the original home of Smokey the Bear. It was here that the scorched and burned cub was found clinging to a tree by Forest Service workers who nursed him back to health. As anyone who grew up during a certain time knows, Smokey the Bear became a national symbol for keeping our forests safe. His slogan was, "Only YOU can prevent forest fires!"

Of course, as adults we sadly know that forest fires can also be caused by lightning strikes in remote parts of the wilderness that burn out of control in droughted landscapes for weeks before they are finally extinguished. And that they leave in their wake ruin and devastation to flora and fauna that takes generations to repair.

Currently there are fires burning in New Mexico, Wyoming, and Colorado (not far from where our own K and KB and family live from Romping and Rolling in the Rockies). The smoke has been detected as far East as Central Nebraska and Western Kansas.

Needless to say, the White Dog Army did not "Get Outdoors." All of the White Ones, especially the still recovering Puff hunkered down inside and got lots of time and attention and treats. We DID go for a car ride, which lifted spirits slightly, but the WDA did not understand why we did not stop at the Park as is our usual pattern. We even carried in, having a living room picnic instead of a car party...but at least the cheese and crackers and pate tasted just as good (AND there were lemon iced sugar cookies for dessert)!