Monday, March 10, 2008

Lasts, Part One

This is my last week in the house, so indulge me a little as I spend some time saying goodbye. There are a lot of "lasts" that I'll be experiencing here. The last time I'll close that door, the last time I'll open that cabinet, the last time ... While I'm excited about my new apartment, I'm also sad about leaving my home of almost 39 years. A lot has happened here, laughter as well as tears. Parties, goodbyes, hellos - I grew from child, to adolescent, to adult in this house. A great many people who are no longer with me have crossed its threshold. Their memories all live not only within me, but within these walls. Wedding showers, baby showers, graduation, birthday and anniversary parties. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, New Years Eve. Oh, the parties we would have. The house filled with people, laughter, conversation, love. Mostly, laughter. My mother and my father both died IN this house. The smells, the sounds - every creek and groan of the house, will be missed. The other day I experienced one of my "last". I woke up that morning to snow, and as I stood there taking pictures I realized that this would be my last snow in this house.
See that tree? My dad planted that tree. My maternal grandmother held it in the hole as he shoveled in dirt. My nephews swung from it. It has shaded me and this house for 25 years. I'll miss it too.

10 comments:

Brandy said...

Treasure your "Lasts". But, move forward for your "firsts"! Much love and Hugs to you.

Toni Anderson said...

It can be sad moving on. My parents are trying to sell their house--they've been there 33 years--a lifetime. But you have to take those memories and keep them safe. Maybe write them down? They are what make your life and right now it sounds pretty damn good :)

Anonymous said...

*hugs* sweetie. I'm with Brandy. Don't dwell on the lasts. Concentrate on the firsts in your future.

catslady said...

Brandy said it well. I'm not one to say goodbye easily to people, places or things so I definitely empathize. I guess that's why we were given memories and cameras :)

Dru said...

I'm with Brandy as well. Remember the lasts but look to the future with the firsts.

{{{{Bailey}}}}

Anonymous said...

Hugs sweetie! Brandy put it beautifully.

Unknown said...

Yes, Brandy said it perfectly. Lots of hugs.

Lexi said...

OMG, you're going to make me cry!

Rene said...

Treasure those memories, they will always be with you. But I agree with Brandy, there is another life out there waiting to greet you.

Bernita said...

We are sad with you.