Five years ago David and I were newly married with a beautiful newborn baby girl. We were living in Stuarts Draft, Virginia in a cozy little home. When we were given the opportunity to move to California, I quickly turned down the chance. I would never live there. Yet, we came and we settled in and made ourselves a home here in Mountain House, because we knew it was the right decision. But I was only going to go for one year!
However, I fell in love. I loved the area, I loved the people, I loved the weather. I was here to stay. So we bought our dream home on Charlene Court - this was where we were going to raise our children and grow old together. The girls loved having such great friends as neighbors, and having a fun cul-de-sac to play and ride bikes on and the park was really close. Not to mention, the house was beautiful and spacious and provided us with everything we needed.
However, life often takes you down paths you would never have guessed you would travel and your dreams are shattered changed. After living in Mountain House for five years, we have been given a new opportunity that will take us back to Virginia. Many have asked if I am thrilled to be going home. To which I reply yes, but only because I will be closer to my family. But really, I feel like this is where I grew into an adult, a wife, a mother. This is where I blossomed and grew so much. This is where our family became a family. This where I pictured my kids going to school and growing up with these friends. This is where a neighbor can come borrow powdered sugar at 10:00 at night. This is where we made best friends. This is where I pictured my girls walking down the stairs in their prom dresses! But really.... this was home.
Now, I am well aware that home is where your heart is. But it's sometimes hard to put your heart in the right place. I have spent the last several months grieving the loss of everything we have here. But it's time to move on to new adventures, new friends, new lessons to learn, a new home.... a new chapter. My children are young, but I want them to remember this little piece of Zion. And it is my prayer that we will find a new piece of Zion in our new home. We have made our decision and we can't look back. Yet, I wanted to add some pictures of our Charlene Court home, so as not to forget it.
I will be adding more pictures soon.
8 comments:
Oh April, I wanted to cry reading this post. I'm so happy you are moving back, but I know how sad you are. I Love You!!!
I understand your feelings very well! I NEVER would have thought I'd settle down in Utah. I'm not so much attached to our house, but I do love living here with my family. I love the mountains and the climate. I've also grown here as a wife and mother. The thought of leaving the life and home I've created here would be very difficult for me too, even if it were Virginia. The good thing is that your family is also moving to Virginia with you, so you don't have to leave the best things behind. As for dreams changing, yep, that's me with these twins!!!! I never even dreamed or hoped for something like this, but I know it will be a blessing. :)
I'm bawling! The pictures are beautiful, but I'm going to remember your table covered in spilled crayons and coloring books. Your counter with flowers in a twine wrapped vase. Your playroom with toys scattered, and squeels of laughter or crying coming from that direction as you and I "chit chat" in the kitchen. I'll remember the countless hours spent sitting on your porch, solving the dilemas of young motherhood and chalk drawings on the sidewalk. I love you loads!
April that made me cry. I can only imagine the mixed feelings you are having at this point. I only hope that the move goes well and live is just as wonderful in Virginia! We will be there this fall also! I can't wait to see your beautiful family! Love you!
April, I hope the transition goes smoothly. It is difficult to change dreams. Your post was so eloquently stated. I hope you find a place you love as much to call home in VA.
PS Your home is beautiful!
I don't want this chapter to close, but I know that the other chapter can be just as good as this one. I am just sad that a new one is being written. Love you!!!
I don't want this chapter to end, but I know the next one will be just as good. I am sad that I will not be there to enjoy it. Thank goodness for the internet. I love you guys.
You have a beautiful home. I know that just makes it harder to leave. On to new adventures though. You'll be happy you took these pictures to remember your house.
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