Normal morning around our house, hubby went to work and then the kids got up. Around 8:30, our daughter was playing in the front room and I was getting our son out of the infant swing for his morning nap. Just as I picked him up, the lights started getting really bright and going out at the same time. I also heard a hissing sound from our laundry room and when I looked that way I saw sparks coming from our gas water heater. I grabbed both kids and ran out the front door. My 2 1/2 year old daughter knew something was going on and made me carry her and the baby out the door. Of course the main door and the storm door were both locked the one time we were getting out in a hurry and while I was holding both kids!
There was a crew working on a fence and retaining wall between our house and the neighbors so I yelled to them to stop, and the owner of the company ran in the house with our garden hose but was unable to put out the fire and ran back out. It was terrifying to see the amount of smoke that had filled my house in the 2 minutes since I left. I had already called the fire department and they arrived to the house in 4 minutes, amazing response time. I called my husband (terrible phone call to make) and told him to come home, there was a fire.
4 fire trucks were on the street and by this time my neighbors were outside with me, thankfully holding my children. My poor brother (who lives close by) was driving to an interview and saw all the fire trucks on our street and stopped by to check on us.
My wonderful next door neighbor let us go into her house and keep the kids away from all the chaos. When we ran out of the house my daughter had on a pajama top and her diaper and was holding a pair of dress up shoes, my son had his pajamas on and I had no shoes on. A grab and go moment. My husband got there and we waited to inspect the damage. I remember talking to my friend on the phone and saying "we will probably need a new dishwasher and washer and dryer." We had no idea what to expect. There is something just awful about telling your loved ones you had a fire at your house.
My sister in law came over and got my daughter to take her to their house. And my dear friend came later to get my son to take him over to my brother and sister in laws house too and to help. I was desperate to keep them happy and safe.
Needless to say we are so thankful that we got out and our sweet babies are ok. Praise God! I cannot even start to think about the "what ifs." We are so grateful for the love we were shown that day from all of our family and friends.
