I received an email from Nick about the LA fires that have swept through his community, and I want to share it with all of you. Todd and everyone, thank you for your care and concern. It has been a traumatic experience for us. We woke up to violent winds that toppled hundreds of trees and power lines, leading to fires with huge flames and embers filling the sky throughout the day and night. The scene was surreal, reminiscent of The Great Fire of London. Despite the devastation around us, our house miraculously survived, although it is now covered in toxic fallout from the surrounding homes that were lost.
Unfortunately, our son Tommy, his wife Katy, and baby Vivienne were not as fortunate. Their newly purchased house, where they had just finished putting on a new roof with our help, is now completely destroyed. The entire neighborhood, including the Alphabet streets, resembles a post-apocalyptic horror movie with piles of ash and black chimneys standing like a somber cemetery.
We had to evacuate to different places, with some of us seeking refuge in Santa Monica and Burbank. We are currently in Burbank, negotiating with our insurance to cover expenses for temporary accommodation while our home and the area are cleaned. Accessing our belongings is risky due to the hazardous conditions. Despite the challenges, we are grateful to be alive and safe, although many of our friends have lost everything.
Tommy shared a poignant realization with me today, reflecting on how, after this nightmare, he now owns fewer personal belongings than he did 27 years ago when he moved back home on a skateboard carrying his meager possessions on an old door. The resilience and spirit of my family and friends are truly remarkable, and we appreciate all the caring words and support during this difficult time. The Tate's are okay.
Update:
We've been evacuated to an Airbnb in Ventura, all safe but unable to return to our home, now deemed a toxic wasteland. The recovery process may span months, even years. The uncertainty of our next steps looms large. Meanwhile, we're focused on renovating my daughter's house in Woodland Hills, a project we've wholeheartedly embraced. Can we make it habitable by the end of February? The journey continues, and we remain resilient. - Tate xx
