You know, just last week I said I wouldn’t do an anthology project, that I wanted to focus on my own writing projects.
Well, the universe had other ideas.
As you know, Los Angeles has been hit with some massive wildfires. The two biggest fires are still burning and under 50% containment. More than two weeks in, the Eaton fire is at 45% containment and the Palisades Fire at just 17%.
I’m safe in Orange County, but Los Angeles County is my neighbor to the north, and I’ve spent countless hours in its environs. The Palisades Fire has burned down places I’d visited with my sister when she lived in California (RIP Moonshadows Malibu), and threatened both the Getty Villa and the Getty Center (approximately 12 miles from each other). The Eaton Fire has hit the communities of Altadena and Pasadena, burning through the communities, historical sites and museums. Even the Huntington Library and Gardens, a place I’ve spent time learning, writing, and relaxing over the years, did not escape unscathed. Not to mention the thousands of home destroyed. It is going to take a massive undertaking to rebuild what was lost.
I’ve been fortunate to be in a position to help where I can, donating goods and money to the organizations that need it, and now I have another opportunity to help out.
Yup. I’ve just signed up for another anthology.
I know, I know. I’m my own worst enemy. But if my writing can help raise money to rebuild the libraries that were lost in the Los Angeles and Altadena communities, then I am damn sure I’m going to do so.
I even have a story idea in mind. Of course it will be historical (duh), and of course it will be romance (double duh). And while there has been a lot of discussion and some deviation, I’m sticking with the original idea and using the fundraising effort as part of my story, setting it in one of the affected communities and involving a library. I’m so excited that this will allow me to branch out into another time and place I’m interested in writing—1800s California. I love my state and am so excited to explore its history in detail.
Keep your eye on this space, and on my socials for all the updates and sneak peeks.
Christina
Your Turn
Not a writer, but still want to help those affected by the fires? Check out these organizations and donate if you can!
American Red Cross is providing shelter to those in affected areas who have been evacuated or left homeless due to the wildfires. They offer this free of charge, and rely heavily on donations.
Pasadena Humane worked with other adoption agencies to empty its shelter of adoptable pets so it is now housing only animals displaced by the fires. Right now they need money to treat the animals for injuries, burns, and smoke inhalation.
World Central Kitchen is on the front lines providing hot, comforting meals to first responders and victims of these fires.