My view the day after the election...

(add your subtitle here!

I was feeling super-antsy for several days after seeing the weather forecast: High Wind Warning.
Where I live, those words are too-often the harbinger of something far worse than they sound. And on Wednesday morning my fears became a reality--the Mountain fire. I don't know how it started, but with gusts up to 100 mph (I can only imagine what those of you who have been in a hurricane must have experience), it became extremely destructive extremely fast--large burning embers can travel up to five miles, setting new fires. 132 homes burned and around 80 damaged.

We were very lucky to be evacuated for only one day, but the fire came within 2 miles of my home, and that was way too close, reminding me of the record-breaking Thomas fire that started on 12/4/17 and burned 1000 homes here in Ventura. I haven't forgotten how it felt to see the flames from my kitchen window.

This time, a generous and good friend across town invited me to use her guestroom on Wednesday night, and included my 13 year-old cat, Lexie, and my housemate.

Lexie may need to be renamed Houdini. Thursday morning I was packing up to return home. I put Lexie in her carry case, zipped up both sides and locked it, then left her in the guestroom while I took my suitcase down to my car.
When I returned, Lexie met me, casually strolling down the hallway. The carry case was just as locked as when I left it! Apparently, she is a magician

My house reeked like a week-old ashtray for a couple of days when I returned, but I am profoundly grateful to be in my home and send prayers for the 132 families who lost theirs.

Book recommendation of the month
During all the commotion I distracted myself by reading a very good book. The Five Year Lie by Sarina Bowen is tagged "A domestic thriller." Not sure what that means, but it had characters I liked, an intriguing story well told, and a perfect ending. Highly recommended. 

Reviews needed!

Have you read MAXIMUM PRESSURE, book #9 in the Claudia Rose forensic handwriting suspense series? If yes, did you like it? If yes and yes, have you posted a review? I would deeply appreciate a few words on Amazon, Goodreads, and/or BookBub (or anywhere you review books). You can copy the same review to each one. It's a huge help. Thank you in advance

I may have free audiobook codes for MP or other titles. Check with me: sheila@sheilalowe.com