Editor,

This letter is to the South Whidbey community. On Friday, Jan. 13, our family lost our home and belongings to a house fire. It was, as any tragedy, unexpected and most significantly left our hearts heavy with the loss of our loved dog, Lucy.

We can’t begin to explain how grateful we are for the community and our family who has surrounded us with love, support and encouragement. Sheila Delong and State Farm insurance, American Red Cross, South Whidbey School District staff and parents, local Girl Scout troops, Crabby Coffee employees and customers who brought donations and prayers, Andy and Terri Campbell, Eldon and Crystal Baker and so many others who, without hesitation, put their hands out to help. This truly is a place I am proud to call home, with neighbors I am proud to call neighbors, and a place where I see a future of rebuilding and happiness.

Today, we continue to move forward, to rebuild our lives, and continue to find positive thoughts and happiness, so thank you. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

“The beauty of life is, while we cannot undo what is done, we can see it, understand it, learn from it and change so that every new moment is spent not in regret, guilt, fear or anger but in wisdom, understanding and love. — Jennifer Edwards”

KEASHA JENNINGS & FAMILY

Freeland