Sunday Scribblings: Decision

A good friend of mine sold a home she and her family have lived in for nearly 50 years. It was a difficult decision, but, quite frankly, it was time.

The stories that this house held were endless. And now it’s waiting for strangers to fill the rooms with new ones. The nice thing about memories, however, is that they’re transportable. Those funny, outrageous, heartwarming, heartbreaking memories live in the pictures and teacups and fine china and quilts we unpacked today.

For many reasons, my friend needed a change. I know she had a different life mapped out when she started this journey. But life gets complicated. Clean breaks are needed. Fortunately, she embraced the change, showing a kind of dignity and grace that I have come to expect from her. So we took our cues from her, which gave us the strength to help her make this transition.

My friend is happy in her new place. Not just happy—excited! It was as if she was moving into her first apartment again. All those things you need for a new space we had to buy, such as a shower curtain liner, silverware holder, and a teapot. Fresh flowers sat in a crystal vase on the kitchen table. Laughter filled every crack and crevice. And a little girl celebrated her second birthday today.

A while ago, possibly in anticipation of this day, my friend had an artist sketch the outside of her home and gave one to each of her children. In a few days, she’ll hang that picture in her new home. Afterwards, I imagine that she’ll use the new teapot, pouring hot water into an old teacup. I hope it's the best cup of tea she’s ever had.

Comments

Becca said…
I can certainly relate to the difficulty of this decision, having lived in a "family home" for over 30 years. I'm glad this was a good decision for your friend ~how lucky she was to have your support.
paris parfait said…
A beautifully-written piece about change and important decisions. Wishing your friend all the best in her new home!
Jone said…
Having been through the process of watching my parents move after years of living in the same place and then making the decision to sell the child hood home of my husband, I can relate. Beautiful post.
Cherie said…
Sounds like a brave woman made the right decision - may find much joy!
Anonymous said…
It is so difficult to leave a place where you feel like you have so much of "you." It sounds like it was absolutely the right decision for your friend...and even if it hadn't been, it sounds like she would have made it the right decision somehow. :) Lovely post.
Tammy Brierly said…
What a strong woman blessed with a good friend. I will be going through this soon and I have taken enough photos to fill my new den. ;) Well written as always.:)
Kamsin said…
50 years in one place seems impossible to believe for me. But so true we take our memories with us wherever we may be.
Goodnight, Mom said…
Jana,

Knowing your friend very well, I know what a difficult decision this was for her. I know she will be very happy in her new place.
January said…
KristiB--she's a strong woman so I think you're right. She'll be just fine.
January said…
Thanks everyone, and happy Sunday Scribblings.
Ian russell said…
changes can be scary, but never changing can be even scarier. I'm fond of the idea of new teapots and old cups, nice image.
Anonymous said…
I have decide something simmilarin near future. I am in a dillema.

I look forward to chane but drastic change? I am not so sure..
Writer Bug said…
Very well done. Your words wonderfully show us what your friend is going through.
A very good post. Enjoyed it a lot.

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