Home sweet home

Today I had an open house of sorts to find a renter for our home while we are gone. It was preceded by countless hours of work and preparation. I am now left with two distinct feelings: first, elation that it's finally over; second, remorse that, of all the applicants who desire to live here, I have to turn away all but one. I was so unexpectedly moved by their stories, by their hope of finding a fresh start, and by their seeking something that this house seems to offer them. It makes me realize that, with everything we've been through over 7 years of life here--with all the cracks, flakes, and dust; all the weeds, ants, and bats; all the hot, cold, and damp; all the creaks, drafts, and uneven edges; all the blood, sweat, and tears--I love this place. I love the life we've lived here, and I will leave a part of my heart here.

feeling the squeeze

Photo reflects life: Not perfectly clear, cluttered, smooshed, still optimistic.

November already and we're feeling the squeeze -- about two months to go. Although I write it I still don't quite believe it. What was I doing just two months ago? It doesn't help that Hurricane Sandy blew through and stole away three whole days of productivity. Now, on top of everything else, I must fight inertia. We hope to start advertising the house to renters in the next two weeks. Also need to prepare the family car for sale. Well, both cars, eventually.

I'm glad Halloween is over. We muddled through this year, with and without power. But today begins a new month, we're back on the grid, I threw the candy out of the house (literally), and I'm ready to get back on track.