Hi all.

So many people have reached out asking for ways to help my folks, so I'm creating this to keep you updated as well as providing a way to help Mom and Dad rebuild after the destruction of their home in the Old Trails Fire.

Since their move in 2019—after living in Santa Barbara for over 30 years—my folks found a new and very close knit community in Spokane. Their home has held many home groups, friends, guests, travelers, pickleball tournaments, future hopes (Mom was really looking forward to hosting a 'cousin camp' one day), and memories.

The Old Trails Fire started around noon on August 1st and moved swiftly and unforgivingly. By 10pm, Mom and Dad had confirmation that their home was gone—along with those on their entire street. Graciously, they were able to get out safely and are currently staying across town with friends in their community. Due to the speed at which the fire moved, and the nature of their evacuation, they were able to save very little.

All members of our family have received numerous calls and texts in the last couple days—know that this has been a buoy to us all.

There are more unknowns than knowns for our whole family at this point, but we do know that this proverbial rebuilding process will be a marathon, not a sprint.

Here is what we know as of Monday evening:

Steen, Trina, Carter and Callie are currently all safe and have good shelter.
Steen and Trina's home is completely gone. They were able to save a couple treasured memories in the aftermath.
They will have some financial needs. Many of these we anticipate to be unforeseen and out of pocket.
They are still receiving mail to their Tiffany Ave address—they just have to travel to the post office to pick it up. This is the way they plan to keep it if you want to send them anything.
They've asked that we update this with prayer requests. Knowing that they will be lifted up in prayer is extremely valuable and comforting for them.
Steen and Trina (and the kids) read every text or email that comes their way. They may not have the bandwidth to respond at the time (or ever) but know that all of this means so much.
They have been completely embraced by both their Santa Barbara and Spokane communities—something that we will be forever grateful for

I, and possibly some others, will do our due diligence in keeping this updated as often as possible. The goal is that this is a central hub for those that want to hear updates and/or any ways in which they can help. We are so grateful for any of you reading this. In a time where a lot in the world feels dark, seeing humanity bond and care for one another in a time of crisis really is a boon to the spirit.

With love and so much gratitude,

Keaton

Portland