Auburn Family Home For Holidays After 49 Fire

AUBURN, Calif. (CBS13) -- An Auburn family was able to spend their Christmas at home for the first time since their home was among the dozens razed by the 49 Fire more than a year ago.

The Mayer family was one of 63 who lost their home 15 months ago by a fast-moving blaze that ripped through Auburn neighborhoods near Highway 49.

"Losing a house is like losing a loved one, you go through a grieving process," said Allan Mayer.

Their home was rebuilt just in time for the Mayers to spend Christmas under a permanent roof, and their new residence is built to help prevent a similar disaster from happening again.

The home features fire resistant stucco and windows, among other measures.

"It was wonderful to be with my family and back where we lived, and it seemed like such a long journey," Peggy Mayer said. "It didn't seem like it was ever going to happen."

The 49 Fire was an act of arson, according to authorities, and the Mayers say the knowledge that the suspect is still on the loose is painful.