On March 5th at around 11:30 PM, our lives changed in an instant when a devastating fire destroyed our home and the workshop for Okoboji Trading Company. Jeff was able to escape with only the clothes on his back. Our golden retriever, Leah, somehow managed to let herself out and was later found safe with a neighbor. We are incredibly grateful to the neighbor who helped make sure she was safe, and to everyone who reached out to check on us that night. Sadly, not everything was spared. One of the kittens in the house did not survive the fire, which has been heartbreaking for us.

In the days since the fire, we have been trying to sort through what comes next. One of the biggest challenges we are facing right now is with the insurance process. Although we had additional commercial coverage connected to the business, we are now being told there is a possibility that commercial products and inventory related to Okoboji Trading Company may not be covered under the policy. Those items represented a significant part of the tools, materials, and finished work that allowed the business to operate. Right now we are simply trying to figure out how to move forward, rebuild what was lost, and get the business back up and running again.

We are deeply thankful for the kindness, messages, and encouragement we have already received from friends, neighbors, customers, and our community. It has meant more to us than we can express. If anyone feels moved to help support us during this difficult time, we would be incredibly grateful. Any support will go directly toward replacing tools, materials, and the essentials needed to begin rebuilding Okoboji Trading Company. Thank you for standing with us during this incredibly difficult time. Your kindness, prayers, and support mean the world to us.