In the height of the Waldo Canyon fire, 35,000 people were evacuated from their homes - some with little more than a ten minute warning. The community was turned upside down -- the cool, breezy nights with skies filled with more stars than one can count became a thick air filled with choking smoke and the mountains were aglow with views of burning timber.
One official was quoted as saying it was a "fire of epic proportion".
Yes, they had been forced to evacuate.They had some warning, but how do you prepare to leave your home with such uncertainty in an hour? Frightfully, they collected their essentials, some personal effects and their pets -- three dogs, one cat, and two birds and fled the wrath of fire barreling down the mountain into their neighborhood.
Fast forward, two weeks later, and all but 350 families were allowed to return home. They released from a huge sigh of relief and bravely faced their reality. There was much to do - basic stuff we take for granted on most days....claim their necessities - shelter, food, and transportation.
After four difficult days of panic and worry, they were among the 'lucky ones'. The trip back to their neighborhood was bittersweet -- happy to be returning home, but still unsure about what they would find. What a relief - their home had not burned in the fire.
Their house appeared to be intact. Smelled of smoke, but still standing. They were thankful to be home on this Wednesday evening and they could sleep in the unmatched comfort of their own bed.
So, unload the car. Settle in a bit. And feed the dogs....
So, off to the garage Lee goes to fill the dog food bowls. She was in for a BIG surprise! Things were moved...trampled...thrown around. Not at all like they had left it when they fled days ago!?
Dave spotted the 'bear trail' across the garage floor.Then, they knew the invasion was done by who would come to be known as the Waldo Bear.
Back to the task at hand, feed the dogs. But, where was the 20# bag of dog food delivered to the door just days' ago? Well, remnants of the heavy plastic freshness-sealed bag were spotted in this mess. But, none of the contents. All gone!
Oh, what a feast this bear had while they were away!
The Waldo bear found dog food with good stuff.
A feast of quality dog food with natural ingredients.
With nutrient rich fruits and vegetables, yummy!
And no meat by products, that's good.
My friend and loyal Life's Abundance customer, Lee, shared this garage invasion as part of her Waldo Fire evacuation experience with grace and humor. She knew she could replace the bears' feast and purchase Life's Abundance Premium Dog Food online. Thanks to the simple online access to her customer account, her next order and shipping date could be easily adjusted. It would be delivered to her door in three days.
So, no worries fur babies --your family is safe and you are loved.
And, as for the bear, he has a Waldo Canyon Fire survival story with a happy ending, too!
