Post Explosion Aftermath

Ah, the house explodes but the show must go on! After we were told that our home would not be liveable for ... a bit (estimates remain vague), we were beyond thrilled and gratified when our dear friends Bob and Audra Pritchett texted us from the airport to tell us that their home was empty for a week and, that they would love for us to live there while they were gone. What a generous offer -- and what a stroke of good fortune. 

Of course, the kids were extra delighted because where better to land than a non-childproofed home?! Notice that Jamisen is playing with a truck full of handmade soap. =) We were so immensely relieved to have a warm and comfortable place to stay, regroup and hug our kiddos tight. And, hug we did since we all slept in the same guest room for a week. I don't think either Chris nor I had more than five hours of interupted sleep that first week after the explosion. 

Beer soap taught at the CSW conference.

Of course,  the timing was horrible but I was scheduled to speak at the Central Soapers Workshop 6 days after the explosion. It was just a wee bit short notice to pull out of the conference and Chris was supportive of me fulfilling my professional obligations.

 

I spoke on the importance of authenticity and routine in social media - as well as taught soapmaking classes. I did cut the trip short, leaving with one day left in the conference, to be home to my little family. 
 

The day after I got home, Chris packed up all of the possessions we were able to get from the house (before we found out it was covered in asbestos) and we headed south to Grandma and Grandpa Faiola's house for a little visit.

Jamisen  was so excited about the kayak in Grandma and Grandpa's hallway! =) He insisted that they get it down for him to ride in. Grandpa obliged and Jamisen had a fantastic time "riding" in the kayak. Lily joined him though wasn't quite as enamored.

She was fascinated by the Legos that were saved from when Erik and I were little kiddos. It was gratifying to see her grasp the concept so quickly. Her language skills also continue to improve. She is a perfect little mimic and knows at least 100 words now (her proud Grandma Faiola insists it's 500!).

We aren't sure when we'll be back in our home but we're thankful for the kindness of friends as we work our way through the toxic dust, displacement and insurance maze.