Well I never thought breathing masks would become a fashion statement in Paradise, and in truth they aren't exactly "fashion statements;" however if smoky conditions continue our residents might look like a cult following at the Neverland Ranch.
The good news is there are blue skies overhead-- or rather patches of something that looks like it could be blue if we tilt our head a certain way and use our imaginations. In any case, it really doesn't matter because Air Quality Control has proclaimed Paradise air to be hazardous to our health so no one can adequately study those mysterious patches to conclude their color.
Why am I still here, you ask? Why not flee to cleaner pastures? Well the answer is simple. I fear the smoky will follow me. If I go to the coast like th rest of California, the winds will shift and the good citizens of Fort Bragg will review their immigration policies and kick us to the curb.
Plus, if I leave, I am quite positive the fire will immediately threaten Paradise and my poor mother-in-law will be left to deal with the mess all by herself-- and so I remain. I knit. I sew. I drink-- Diet Pepsi. Thus far, I have made five dresses, four skirts and four vests and have knitted two scarves (I think that is all-- my brain is a bit foggy on the numbers).
Paradise officials announced yesterday that due to poor air quality and fire conditions, the Fourth of July has been canceled. They also urged residents to not set off sane and sane fireworks within town limits-- as they are both illegal and a fire hazard. Anyone caught with fireworks in their possession will be fined up to $1,000 and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Oh yes, and for the sake of everyone smoking is not permitted outside unless you are in a closed vehicle (I can't remember what official said that one-- I just read it on the Net and you all know how reliable that is).
Note: my town is no longer threatened by the fire at this time. I believe this longer dramatic episode is coming to a close and one day we will be able to breathe deeply and run through the sprinklers outside (instead of the shower where I've been throwing my kids).
