It sure sounds like you've got your work cut out for you. Invasive weeds can be a real problem and getting on top of the situation can be a struggle. It sounds like the fire did some of the work for you, but also very dangerous, thank goodness for the neighbors.
It's good to hear that you did get a crop of peas and Swiss chard.
10 years of neglect surly will take some time to right the situation. Slow and steady wins the race and you do seem to be making some progress despite going it alone.
Give it hell my friend!
Thank you for the encouraging words, I will!