Four years ago, we packed up our family and made the great journey from Charleston to Huntington. We snuck into this neighborhood and began to claim it as ours. I have been recalling the hectic days and weeks before the move today and the pleasure of meeting our new friends. I was nervous. Unsure of how to fit with people who hadn't known me their entire lives. Unsure what silences on what days would be appropriate to fill in backstory and how much to share.
When we came to this house, Aurelia was not even two. She will be six this summer. She has been housebroken, sleeps through the night, and can form intelligible sentences. We are still working on her high pitched speaking voice and finger chewing.
Daniel was so sad to leave Elkview. Now, he would gladly trade our house for the beach or any other exciting prospect, in theory at least. Meaning he is more open to change that does not require month long mourning. He will be in the last year of elementary school. I cannot bear it.
Cory was a sophmore in high school. Now he is grown and on his own. Little does he know that each time he crosses my mind during the day, I say a little prayer that he will see the great man he can become.
Ted and I will celebrate our eleventh year of marriage and in this house, we have built a home. Full of crazy kids, wacky pets, laughter, and love. I hope to see forty years... fifty years... or more in this house. So thankful am I to have such great family and wonderful friends.
5 years ago
