Friendships and the May 10th Tornado

I joined the blogging community and the Nature Blog Network just two years ago, having no idea how this community and activity would expand my world and bring me into contact with so many new and talented friends.  In the process of visiting other blogs, I discovered the inspiring work of artists and bloggers, Julie Zickefoose and Debbie Kaspari.

In the photo above you see, Julie (right), Mary Moore Ferracci (left) and myself at the 2010 New River Birding and Nature Festival, one of those rare occasions where bloggers meet and enjoy each others' company, putting faces and voices together in the richness of in-person..  The photographer who collected us together for this "Periwinkle Trio" image was fellow blogger, Susan Kailholz-Williams.  

Just twelve days later we all learned about the devastating tornado that destroyed Debbie Kaspari's home in Oklahoma. And today, a month later, I'm joining Julie and the Nature Blog Network community with an invitation to you to visit Julie's blog, meet Debbie and Mike Kaspari's and read the amazing story of their survival of the May 10th Oklahoma tornado.  

I couldn't read this account or the detailed account on Debbie's blog, The Anatomy of a Tornado, without  tears.  Their story is real and terrifying, evoking both fear and gratitude.  On Julie's blog, you will also find easy ways to send financial support.  If you have the means, I hope you will join us in our endeavors to support the Kaspari's recovery.            

The story is presented on Julie Zickefoose's blog in three parts:  

Meet Debbie Kaspari (June 6)

An Oklahoma Eden (June 8)

The May 10 Tornado (June 10).