If you had told us last fall that it would take nearly a full year to get to demolition day, we wouldn’t have believed you. But that’s the reality of rebuilding after a major storm — patience becomes part of your daily routine.
There were months of waiting, setbacks, and more paperwork than we could’ve imagined. We questioned our decisions, wondered if we should sell, and even looked at homes nearby. But between the low housing market and our daughter’s desire to stay in the community she loves, we knew deep down we were meant to see this through.
So, we waited — and kept working, parenting, planning, and trying to find humor where we could. (I mean, we are a family of 3 with 2 dogs living in an RV- that alone has to be funny!) Slowly, things started to move again. And then, finally, demo day arrived.
Watching the walls come down was both heartbreaking and healing. This was the home that flooded, the one that held our laughter, our holidays, and our dogs racing down the hallway. But it was also the home that taught us how to start over.
The sound of the first wall falling wasn’t sadness — it was relief. It was motion after a year of stillness.
Gratitude and What Comes Next
It’s hard to believe it’s been a full year since Helene. A year of adjusting, waiting, and doing our best to live life between insurance calls, builder meetings, and driveway dinners.
The rebuild hasn’t started yet, but for the first time, it feels real. We’re finally moving forward — and that’s worth celebrating.
A year ago, we stood in water. Today, we’re standing in possibility.
The road to demo day was long, but it brought perspective, resilience, and a few unexpected blessings along the way. We’ve learned that home isn’t defined by walls — it’s defined by the people (and dogs) inside them.
Here’s to what comes next.
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Two Dogs and a Demo 