Paul NelsonChannel 2 News
One couple says they were happy to be on vacation in Pennsylvania when the Caughlin Fire broke out Friday morning.
Ray and Ellen Mann first heard the news from their daughter and neighbor before seeing the footage on our website.
"We had seen it on TV and that kind of helps. We were prepared for the worst. But it still kind of...it takes your breath away."
Today, all that is left of their 3-story home is some charred lumber, a chimney, and a lot of memories. "That's our 3-car garage. Look, my weight set's still there," says Ray.
Despite the loss of so many possessions, including two cars and a family piano, the Manns don't necessarily look at this as a tragedy. "Everybody's safe, in the family. Sunday morning, we had almost all our family up here and it just felt good to be together and say goodbye to the house," says Ellen.
A safe, with some gold coins, documents, and jewelry was salvaged from the rubble, with the help of some firefighters -- who along with the police -- the Manns are grateful too.
Ray says, "They weren't just 'Oh, here it's the job.' They really wanted to help and, I mean, it was terrific. It actually was a pick-up. We were almost having a good time."
This family says, even if it takes a little digging, they know they'll come out of this okay and with any luck, they could find little surprises buried beneath the rubble.
"We just believe that somewhere under here, just like that glove, there's going to be little bits and pieces and those will be enough. There will be good momories for us," says Ellen.
As for the rebuilding process, they aren't sure if they can replicate a house with so many memories, but they would like to try.
"It was such a neat house. I think we would probably go with something very similar. Maybe update it a little bit," says Ellen.
Ray adds, "Probably think twice about our fire-retardant roof."
For the time being, they have moved into a condo right behind their office, which is good because they don't have cars to drive to work.
They also say they plan to buy a small Christmas tree and say they have a lot to be thankful for, this holiday season.
