The incredibly raging wildfires that spread across Southern California have brought an immense wave of devastation amongst them. The Thomas Fire northwest of Los Angeles already spread through about 150,000 acres of land with hundreds of buildings and homes destroyed as a result.
Evacuation orders were placed in Ventura before the fire passed. When people returned to their city and homes, many didnโt have a home to return to at all. That was the case for retired homicide detective Mike McKendry and his wife Donna, who lost their dream house in the Thomas Fire.
Luckily, the couple did get to evacuate in time and no one got injured. They were also relieved that their beloved dogs werenโt hurt as well. As the fire passed, Mike and Donna lived in uncertainty and didnโt know whether or not they would still have a house standing.
Unfortunately, all that remains in the area is devastation and rubble.
Mike and Donna heard the disheartening news from FOX11 reporter Gigi Graciette, who quickly checked the condition of their house after she was asked about it on Twitter. Reporters and volunteers used the social network to update others on the conditions of their homes.
โ686 Skyview Terrace (โฆ), Iโm so sorry. Itโs a total loss.โ
Even though this couple lost their home, they didnโt lose what was most precious to them: each other.
โWhat was important before isnโt so much now; it puts things into a new perspective,โ Donna mentioned.
โThere is a time for crying and a time for laughing so just mix them together,โ Mike says. โI donโt think weโve cried yet, really. Itโll come, but right now weโre just trying to grasp the whole situation,โ Donna added.
Surprisingly, they also found their most beloved possession among the rubble, family wedding rings.
Even though the fire damaged the rings, which belonged to Donnaโs mother, the two are very glad that theyโre able to keep the rings for the rest of their lives.
โI found my momโs original wedding rings and Iโm really glad. Itโs not in great condition, but Iโm going to have it for the rest of my life,โ Donna happily says.
Mike and Donna have since kept on digging through the debris and have found a couple more precious family items. Theyโre also extremely determined to rebuild their dream home.
Even though their home was taken in the fire, there isnโt a fire in the world that could take their hope.
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