Your piece is very moving, particularly when you write about how the pain of explaining the situation to your children, and then accompany the text with pictures of your adorable little ones playing so contentedly in front of the only home they've ever known. Many years ago I lived with my family in a house in Charleston SC that was constructed in 1845. As with any house so old, it was full of quirky character; I don't think there was a single right angle anywhere in it, for one thing. The night the decision was made to move to Texas, I couldn't let myself feel altogether happy because I was leaving a place I loved and the only house my children knew. But for some reason I started wondering about all the people who had moved into and then out of that house in the 160+ years of its existence, which was something I'm embarrassed to admit I'd never given much consideration to before then. I realized that, in a house as old as that one, it was almost certainly the case that some children had been born in it, and some people had likely died in it as well, and I realized that surely those people had a greater claim on ownership of the house than I could put forward. And thinking about these things for some reason brought a certain peace to me and helped me to let go of my feelings of loss. I hope that you and your family grow to love your new place even more than the old one, and I wish you health and happiness and peace as always.
I loved reading this, especially that sweet letter to your house! Having to move is a real bummer, but you'll find your way (as you always have!). Sending my love to you and yours and hope to visit soon! ❤️❤️❤️
Heartbreaking to leave homes where babies were born & raised! I’ve
Comforted myself through moves by hoping that even if I can’t give my kids as long-term of living situations as I had growing up (same neighborhood for a decade), the feelings of home I want to cultivate (balance, honesty, stability, humor, creativity, etc.) can be modeled and rebuilt in any home, and that for kids, watching that process and learning flexibility with solid family support could be valuable and educational in unique ways. Within reason, ha. But it still can be real grief to negotiate!
Also, so hard to give in to trust for a partner in a big moment like this, even if we know that they’ll do it best. But also somehow so gratifying/bonding when it works and we can say “you were right”? Wishing you peace and surprisingly quick happiness in your new home.
Oh Abby, I’m so very sorry for the loss of your most special home and all that I know that means to you, and to your little ones and Joe. I will carry you in my heart with love in these coming months as always. Warmly, Judi
Great and very moving post. I confidently predict you'll love life in your new apartment ❤️
Thanks so much, Cindy - I think you’ll be right ❤️ It gives meta meanings to outside perspectives 😘
Hi Abigail-
Your piece is very moving, particularly when you write about how the pain of explaining the situation to your children, and then accompany the text with pictures of your adorable little ones playing so contentedly in front of the only home they've ever known. Many years ago I lived with my family in a house in Charleston SC that was constructed in 1845. As with any house so old, it was full of quirky character; I don't think there was a single right angle anywhere in it, for one thing. The night the decision was made to move to Texas, I couldn't let myself feel altogether happy because I was leaving a place I loved and the only house my children knew. But for some reason I started wondering about all the people who had moved into and then out of that house in the 160+ years of its existence, which was something I'm embarrassed to admit I'd never given much consideration to before then. I realized that, in a house as old as that one, it was almost certainly the case that some children had been born in it, and some people had likely died in it as well, and I realized that surely those people had a greater claim on ownership of the house than I could put forward. And thinking about these things for some reason brought a certain peace to me and helped me to let go of my feelings of loss. I hope that you and your family grow to love your new place even more than the old one, and I wish you health and happiness and peace as always.
Dave
I loved reading this, especially that sweet letter to your house! Having to move is a real bummer, but you'll find your way (as you always have!). Sending my love to you and yours and hope to visit soon! ❤️❤️❤️
Heartbreaking to leave homes where babies were born & raised! I’ve
Comforted myself through moves by hoping that even if I can’t give my kids as long-term of living situations as I had growing up (same neighborhood for a decade), the feelings of home I want to cultivate (balance, honesty, stability, humor, creativity, etc.) can be modeled and rebuilt in any home, and that for kids, watching that process and learning flexibility with solid family support could be valuable and educational in unique ways. Within reason, ha. But it still can be real grief to negotiate!
Also, so hard to give in to trust for a partner in a big moment like this, even if we know that they’ll do it best. But also somehow so gratifying/bonding when it works and we can say “you were right”? Wishing you peace and surprisingly quick happiness in your new home.
You will get use to the new apartment once you get in and arrange it all to suit your needs.
Happy Trails!
Oh Abby, I’m so very sorry for the loss of your most special home and all that I know that means to you, and to your little ones and Joe. I will carry you in my heart with love in these coming months as always. Warmly, Judi