I was 8 years old and living in Tigard, Ore., when Mount St. Helens erupted.
I remember seeing the news coverage prior to the eruption and had no idea what it would mean if the mountain erupted. At that age, I had no idea of the destructive forces I was seeing and the massive damage it caused to the surrounding area. I had no idea that it was changing lives.
My family and I drove up to Johnston Ridge Observatory Saturday for the first time, and we were amazed at the scenery. Trees from the blast can still be seen laying on the ground. Stumps are still standing where the top part of the tree was ripped by the tremendous force of the blast.
However, after 30 years, there is evidence of earth trying to regrow and live again in the blast area.
