Washington fires lead to long visit home for former Regina woman and family

A family from Washington State, driven from their home by forest fires and smoke, are on an extended vacation in Regina.

Elisabeth Cherland is originally from Regina. Cherland and her children, Elijah Cherland-Narum, 7, and Leif Cherland-Narum, 4, are staying with her parents until the fire and smoke subsides.

"The evacuation happened July 31st, August 1st and there's still uncertainty about when we will be able to return," Cherland said Thursday.

She is hoping they can return to Washington next week, when school is set to begin.

Meanwhile, the family is enjoying their visit with her parents.

"This is where I grew up, it's wonderful. I go around the lake in the morning," Cherland said. "Regina's a beautiful place to be in the summertime so we feel really fortunate that we can be here."

The youngsters are spending time with going on bike rides, visiting the museum and doing workbooks.

"This is a safe place for them," Cherland said. "It doesn't feel too strange but they do ask some questions about when they get to to go home."

The family was already on a summer vacation, in late June, when their home community in the Cascade Mountains was affected by fires.

Carl Cherland is happy to visit with his daughter and grandchildren but said he believes the fires can be linked to climate change.

"The earth is talking to us," he said. "It is a living thing and it's talking to us. The question is: Are we listening? Well I 'm listening now, big time."