NC on my mind

Some of you know I have Horse People in my life.

A few months ago, a reader who filled out my Ask Me Anything wanted to know how I’m able to write such memorable equine characters.

The answer is that I have patient, loving family members who currently own, or have owned, horses and donkeys. They’re also willing to answer texts like “hey, I need to know how to steal a horse.”

Two of those Horse People are my wonderful aunts, and they live outside of Asheville, NC, which was hit hard by Hurricane Helene.

They’re okay, their homes are okay, and their donkeys and horses are also okay. FEMA is in their town right now, providing food and water. Their WiFi was restored last week, and they finally both have electricity again, but it will be a long time before things return to anything resembling normal. 

Still, you can always find the helpers. I’ve been reading stories about mules delivering diapers and insulin over washed-out roads, and it makes me smile. Theo the (fictional) donkey, who was inspired by several real-life North Carolina donkeys, would be happy to lend a helping hoof. If you feel the same, please consider donating to the American Red Cross or World Central Kitchen, which is currently serving meals in Asheville.

Also, I’ve joined a group of authors who are pooling our resources to create a charity anthology to benefit the victims of Hurricane Helene. Click here to join the reader’s FB group, and stay tuned. I’ll share more about the anthology soon!

Finally, no matter where you live, please vote for leaders who take climate change seriously and will push for legislation to address the climate crisis. We need to take better care of the only home we’ve ever known.