My World's on Fire...How 'Bout Yours?

I am a very proud and happy long-term resident of the great state of Colorado. In the last few weeks, we've been experiencing an alarming heat wave (record breaking, hottest ever temps in Denver AND a streak of more than five days over 100 degrees...) when combined with a pretty mild winter and drought, it has led to the worst fire season I have ever experienced. Across our state we have about 15 separate fires, with hundreds of structures (homes) destroyed, thousands of acres charred, and tens of thousands of families, pets, livestock, and wildlife displaced. The news on every local channel tonight was image after image of huge black plumes of smoke and a disturbing creeping blaze... it brought tears to my eyes. The past few days, while I'm out walking my dog, I can smell smoke in the air and looking in almost any direction, I can see the haze of smoke from the blazes around us. I'm not a religious person, but I am keeping those affected by the fires in my thoughts and hoping for a break in the weather, for the winds to stop, and for a heavy rain to come help our region. Also, I'd like to send a BIG shout out and thank you to all our brave firefighters & police and the disaster support of public and private agencies like the Red Cross. The care, concern and compassion I have seen and heard about restore my faith in humanity. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Today marks four months.

I realize I'm jumping into the middle of the story here and there aren't many who will know how this fits into the bigger picture (yet), but exactly four months ago I was released from the job/career I held for just over 11 years. My departure wasn't under good terms and the emotional wounds and scars from the whole ordeal still feel fresh and painful. I feel like I'm still wandering in what feels like professional no-man's land. I feel lost, useless, and utterly unequipped to deal with what life throws at me. But, to put a more positive spin on it - I have come through four months and I am still alive. That is an accomplishment.

A Journey of a Thousand Miles begins with One Step.

I have a lot of things to write about, most of which has filled pages of paper journals or been talked about extensively with friends and family. Lately, I feel like these thoughts and ramblings need a home, so I've set up this blog. Stay tuned for more...