Hi Lowell & Don,

Yeah, one of these days. But which day? The saddest part about this history is that we are no closer as individuals to be prepared for these events now than we were fifty years ago. Our greatest hope now can only be that the next large quake strikes in a somewhat remote area.

For those readers who do not live in California we still have thousands upon thousands of acres of land where there is nothing built upon them. But little by little our suburbs are expanding at an alarming rate and with that we have more citizens living closer to danger. Generally speaking the best area's to reside sit right on top of earthquake faults or right next to the ocean where they are subject to possible tsunami's. That's why California is one of the most picturesque places in the world to live.

Saturday I had a rare opportunity to go yachting in the San Francisco Bay. While starting in San Rafael it was beautiful and warm, but in the middle of the bay foggy and freezing cold. The Golden Gate Bridge was shrouded in fog so only the top of the towers were visible. Yet upon arriving next to Pac Bell Park while the game was in session, it again was warm and delightful. I got a view now and then of the Blue Angels doing their practice sessions overhead and it reminded me how fortunate I am to live in such a deliciously beautiful place.

Most everyone who has lived in California for any period of time knows we are overdue for a large earthquake. Most don't prepare because they feel if they buy into the realism that an earthquake will arrive, they will become fearful. So they don't. Therefore, we have to ask, is ignorance bliss? Or it is a recipe for disaster, which can be avoided?

Petra