Hilton couple affected twice by Hurricane Frances

Hurricane Frances destroyed the life-long dreams of Fred and Agnes Harrington when it came through Vero Beach and demolished a home they had purchased in March 2004.

The Hilton couple had long dreamed of owning a home in Florida and in March they were able to realize that dream when they purchased the home to which they would eventually retire. After purchasing the property, they spent the month of April there and planned to go back to spend the winter months there.

"We completely remodeled the interior," Fred said. "It really was our dream home."

The home, an ocean front property in Vero Beach, was in the direct path of Hurricane Frances when it made its way through Florida. "We were devastated when we heard about our house," Agnes said. "Our beautiful dream house is gone but at least we still have our home here (in Hilton)."

When the remnants of that hurricane went through this area on September 9, the Harringtons were at their home in Hilton, an area ravaged by the rain and floodwaters. "The only thing we suffered up here is a leaking roof," Agnes said.

While the Harringtons say they are devastated over the loss of their Florida home, they say they count their blessings. "There are some things you can't answer ... you just have to be thankful for the things you do have," Agnes said.

The Harringtons plan to go and inspect the damage to their Florida home for themselves within the next week. Agnes said they did buy hurricane insurance so they are hopeful that they can rebuild.