I started to title this post, “Off the Rails”. But then it sounds like the train derailed.

It did not.

Our work schedule did.

Monday as we left Denali headed south to Anchorage, a fire (unrelated to the train but rather suspected to be human caused) started on a slope past the village in Denali.

It’s being called the Riley Fire.

Denali National Park has been closed to travel and any new bookings. The hotels have been evacuated. This was due to power outages. Not that the fire was in range.

Derek and I were scheduled to be off from July 1-4th anyway. But our planned train trip and overnight to Talkeetna was canceled. And we now do not work tomorrow, the fifth of July.

Saturday we have an abbreviated schedule. About half the distance and hours of a normal shift. I don’t even know how I’ll have time to serve anyone drinks. I’m sure that’s been addressed.

It’s frustrating to have started earning more money than I ever have. To get to a point where I can spend money on a few nicer things. And then have my ability to earn taken away.

I’m not blaming anyone. It’s not anyone’s fault. (Except the person who started the fire – even if accidental.)

For the most part, I have been of the mindset, “Well. Of course this happens”. Not surprised since a lot of my life has been bumps in the road. Yet I am disappointed. It’s been nice to have money to spend. Not worrying about money as much.

This evening we got news that the power has been restored in the park and land operations are opening up again. This is great news! It means we’ll likely return to our normal work schedule next week.

This hiccup is definitely a reminder that I plan life and God redirects. He always has a reason. He promises to make good out of bad things.

So I will trust in Him.

For now, Happy Fourth of July! It’s not dark enough here in Anchorage for fireworks. I have heard some anyhow. We went out to Texas Roadhouse for dinner. And life is good.

So is God. ALL the time.