Usually there is some sadness here in Northwestern Montana as summer comes to an end – this year, though, we are all not only ready for it to be over but praying for that first heavy snow – at the very least some good rain and a hard frost!  Between record heat, record fires and wasps/hornets/yellow jackets it has been a summer to remember although hardly with fondness.

 On the good news front, the fire near Glacier (Skyland) and west of Whitefish (Brush Creek) have calmed a bit – or at least they seem to have a handle on the fronts nearest homes, ranches and structure.  Seeley Lake (Jocko Lakes) allowed some evac’d residents home.  Tomorrow will be pivotal as a cold front – a REAL cold front is due to whoosh through with wind at the start and possibly strong to severe thunderstorms following.  The storms are supposed to be “wet” and next week’s forecast is for a fall-type scenario with much cooler temps and real RAIN. 

The bad news and a bit ironic – I returned from Missoula on Monday 8/14.  Yesterday at approximately 2:15 a fire (Black Cat) started just a few miles from Jim n Mary’s RV park and additionally closed route 93 for some time.  Homeowner’s were evacuated with less than an hour’s notice.  Scary stuff and that kind of thing is a possibilty throughout Montana and probably a lot of the west until we get significant moisture.

So – VERY glad to be home – but glad to have gone… the little trip broke the anxiety, even given the continued high fire danger.  Local fire departments have been given funds to keep manpower and equipment staged and ready to quickly knock down any new starts.  My own volunteer district is now “manned” (and PAID!) 24/7 with 2 of 7 engines out of the halls and at strategic points of the district.

Karl and Bob are glad to be home and back in their routine – off leash and in their own space.  Always funny – the first night back they are both very snuggly – Karl, who on rare occasions will come on the bed ALWAYS joins Bob and I when we return home.  My boys – they are excellent company at home or on the road….