Uptown BOM and Fire Suppressor

My first block of Gay's BOM Uptown is complete! Find out more HERE. I'm using fusible and machine applique. 

I decided to mix it up and not use my go-to muslin. I'm using flax color from Peppered Cottons by Pepper Cory. It is a lovely shot cotton and so soft! I think I'm going to like it a lot!

Lizzy asked me about "fire suppressor". At the time it felt weird to share that story, but now that some time has passed I will tell all!

When we were camping (by permit only!) at the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Washington state, 2 of us  went north for a day hike, 2 of went south for a day hike and Michelle stayed in camp to read and relax. When Jan and I were returning some hikers mentioned that some idiots had a campfire when no fires were permitted. You can see the smoke in the photo above. This is what we saw and it did not look like it was near any campsite. On our way back to camp I hollered at one group who had not day hiked and told them it looked like there may be a fire. One of them ran to look for it. When he did find it (definitely a fire not in a fire ring but near the drop toilet) 3 from their group, Jan, me and Michelle went to investigate as well.

 Five of us were attempting to get out the flames and I felt like we were making headway and 2 from the other group had packed up and told the 3 who were helping put the fire out left. (they were young and scared, so I kind of get it)  Michelle was down by the water trying to get a signal and notify authorities on her emergency radio. 

I looked at Jan and said, "I'm not leaving until the forest service arrives." Jan looks at me and says, "We have to build a fire line!"  I have no idea what that means, but I kept running back and forth to the lake to get water. It was a steep hill and that was not easy.  I really felt like we were holding it and about that time some young men came back to camp and Michelle notified them there was a FIRE! I was never so happy and relieved to see other people in my life! One was a retired hotshot and he took charge! What a relief. Slowly people started coming back to camp and everyone pitched in. (even the young person we feel was smoking  and started the fire) 

The forest service flew a plane overheard and could see we had it under control. The young men checked on it before going to bed and in the morning and gave the all clear. 

It was over-the-top unreal! This is our water jugs that are reserved for clean water. We were able to swim and get off the dirt, dust and ash. But I had a heck of a time shutting my brain off to go to sleep later. Did we just help save a forest??? Heck ya!

The next day we were day hiking and passed the forest service who was hiking in to get eyes on the situation. It was a pretty incredible and unforgettable incident. 

And that explains the "fire suppressor" title on my coffee cup. 

I always felt like the emergency beacons were for medical issues, but was so glad Michelle had one to radio for help!

Let's have a terrific weekend!