Beauty 365 … Stories of Love and Life for Everyday

I’m not good with change. Even small things like changing our brand of hommus can really rattle me. A couple of years ago, when my hairdresser moved, my doctor retired and our parish priest switched, boy, was my recovery slow! These days, I am grappling with a massive new change, but surprisingly, I’m ok with it. I think.

Day 28 at 4.30 pm, the house of my childhood, the house I lived in till the day of my wedding, went under the hammer.

What a house! The house my parents bought as a young married couple. The house that was extended twice to accommodate six kids, elderly relatives and a dog. The house whose backyard became a children’s paradise, first with a trampoline, then with a pool. The house that welcomed friends and hosted parties.  The house that was a real home.

Strange times meant a strange auction; three parties on a computer screen, the auctioneer and two masked bidders. One was guarded by his medical mask, the other hidden behind the cocker spaniel on his knee, so it looked like his pet was doing the bidding! The “dog man” was victorious, and we are grateful for an excellent outcome, given these economically strained days.

As my brother and I left the property in the evening, after a quiet champagne with Mum, he asked me, “Are you sad?” It’s a question I have wrestled with in the last months as the auction has approached. My children insist that I should be devastated and have even devised wild schemes to purchase the property themselves.

I am well aware that in the coming months the house will almost certainly be demolished and shiny new units built in its stead, but I’m not sad.

I read a quote recently, that rings true for me. “A house is made of wood and stone, but only love can make a home.” Our house may be gone, but nothing can change the love that was built within its walls. A love which remains with me every day and everywhere.

I love this photo. It’s of my family, taken in the kitchen when we all still lived at home. Looking at my love-struck eyes and dreamy smile, I have no doubt about the identity of the photographer; then, my new boyfriend, now my wonderful husband! These days, building a home of love with him, is my greatest joy!