DEKALB COUNTY, AL (WAFF) -
It seemed like the world stopped in parts of DeKalb County one year ago.
In some neighborhoods, only piles of clothes, parts of homes, and memories remained in a community where seven tornadoes changed lives and took others, all in one day.
Life remained on County Road 1007. That is where Cindy White and her family live.
White said a narrow shelter of rocks helped to save her and her family's lives.
"During the short time we were in there, we were praying. Praying," said White.
Part of their prayers were for Cindy's 16-year-old son Dustin to make it to where they were.
"I was just standing in the barn doorway and I was looking around and seen all kind of crap flying and I was like 'huh', and I stepped back inside the barn because stuff was hitting me, and then they started running and they told me to come on so I run up here with them," said Dustin.
They all survived, including "Baby Girl" the dog. However, when they climbed out, the landscape had changed dramatically.
"I think it'll be pretty once again," said White.
It was a day they will never forget, but not just because of the destruction and tragedy in a community they have lived in for seven years. They will also never forget it because of the blessings that came from it.
"We've had every denomination come out and help," said White.
Volunteers almost immediately poured into the community; so did a FEMA trailer. Within six months, the family of six moved into their new five-bedroom home - a far cry from the three bedroom mobile home that was blown away.
"We are just thankful how blessed we are," said White.
These words are echoed by the few people left in the quiet neighborhood off a small county road - people determined to make sure life indeed goes on.
"This is home," said White.
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The family took cover under a pile of rocks.
FOX19-WXIX
