Hi Everyone,
We would like to thank everyone for their kind words as well as the email offers to help!
I visited the property yesterday and as described the cottage was completely destroyed. Fortunately, the fire was low burning and aside for 8-12 trees around the cottage, there was no damage to the trees over the 3-4 acres of where the fire burned. It turns out it was mostly brush and leaves that burned, thankfully because the area was still wet.
The cause of the fire was obvious as a large birch tree snapped in half and fell across the main power line of which the hot wire then caused a ground fire. And, what was amazing is how close the fire came to other houses (within 2 feet of 2 other houses, and within 30' of of 3 others).
So, from the water, aside from seeing a missing house, it is not obvious that there was even a fire. We're very thankful that the area was almost fully preserved!
If anyone out there can refer any architects who may have plans available we would greatly appreciate it. We'll also be looking for referrals to any contractors (framers, electricians, plumbers, etc).
Thanks again for all of the kind words and support! We're looking forward to rebuilding!!
Mike & Donna
PS: For those of you who haven't ridden in a hovercraft, let me tell you, it is quite the experience. Let's just stay they don't have brakes!!

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