You never really want to have to meet these guys …. honestly, I’d really rather just like to admire them on calendars.  But, I understand they can be pretty awesome when you really need them!   We were very shaken when we learned that not one, but TWO young couples that we know have lost everything to house fires this week.  Thankfully everyone is physically alright and no one was hurt in either instance … but it is so incredibly disturbing to think how quickly life can change and it makes you really take stock of what matters most.  Our hearts go out to these young couples as we know that the first few years of marriage can be trying in and of itself, but to be faced with such a tremendous setback can be quite challenging.

One of the affected couples is one of my neices and her husband.  She heard a noise and saw flames in the laundry room.  She called 911 and even though the fire department arrived in about 3 minutes, all of the work of their first few years of marriage, most of it done by her husband’s own hands, vanished before her eyes.  Thankfully they are insured, and we are awaiting word of what they may need in the way of assistance.  In the meantime, prayers for their strength during these tough times, and prayers of gratitude for their safety and for the swiftness of those first responders go a long way.

We were then blown away to learn that on the next day, fellow photographer Lee Lopez and his wife, Hillary, were affected by a fire at their home.  Apparently the apartment below theirs caught fire and the damage extended up into their apartment.  The person who caused the fire did not have insurance.  Being the ever ambitious and resourceful person that Lee has proven himself to be, he is not going to just sit back and accept donations.  Rather, Lee has created a means to help himself and to give back to anyone who wants to assist them … he has set up a photography event which you can check out HERE.  If you’re in need of a head shot or portrait, I’m thinking this is a pretty sweet deal for you, as he is offering this at dramatically discounted pricing.  I’m thinking I could not have more admiration for someone who works so hard to make his own success, and I am so inspired by his spirit!  Be sure and check him out at  www.iamleelopez.com.