Our “oldest” (as in we’ve been friends since 1970) friends, Joan and Rudy, lost their beautiful home to the Sonoma County wildfire two years ago. They got out with just the clothes on their backs with no time to spare. On our visit to California a week ago, we saw their property for the first time since the fire.
The good news is that they are rebuilding on their beautiful property! And their daughter, Liz, bought the property next door!
Because of the heavy rains (continuing while we were there), the area is lush with new growth, and you have to look carefully to see the remnants of the devastation that took place that October night. Their new home, with a different floorplan, is being built in the same spot as the old, and when you walk in, you can see the same views as before. It felt good to be there.
Below are some shots of our visit.
Flowers in bloom with a view up the hill of a bit of burned area and just a little corner of the roof of the new home:
A partially burned tree by their driveway.
Look in and looking out:
Joan and Rudy with their grand-dog, Newton:
Daughter, Liz with Newton:
Although they are starting over in many respects, it was heartwarming to see how much seems the same. They hope to be able to move in next Fall.
melinda anderson photography 
Thank you Melinda for the beautiful photos and tribute…..
Melinda, How wonderful to see Joan and Rudy. It looks like their life is moving forward. I am so happy for them. Jan
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