I watched as the last of my parents’ belongings were loaded on the moving truck and began the long journey from Louisiana to Tennessee. Except for a stray roll of packing tape and a few water bottles all the rooms are empty. Well, not really empty. Each space holds memories. Every corner echoes with days gone by.
I know. I sound pretty melodramatic. But I’m feeling really sentimental, so maybe you can humor me for just a few minutes?
My parents lived in that home for almost 50 years. They raised two children. Hosted countless youth and church events. Endured dozens of slumber parties and probably hundreds of sleepovers. Our home was truly open to everyone. My mother was always the life of every party. I think my friends came to see her more than they did me. My dad was the most patient and giving man I’ve known.
Some memories stand out from the others. Like the 4th of July when a firecracker ignited a gas leak by the sidewalk and the fire department closed off our entire block. And when I backed over the mailbox and wedged it under the car. And when my heart was broken and my mom hurt with me.
All these and more are part of me. The house on Dianne Street was center stage. It was home base for our family and a training ground for faith. Our parents purposefully and consistently shared Jesus and the things of God with me and my younger brother, both verbally and by example. They lived a life of faith that made me want it too.
They have also loved well. We never had to doubt their love for each other or for us. And although circumstances are very different today, they still love each other well and their affection is still obvious.
Life is difficult for my folks right now. Leaving their home was a necessity, not a choice. That makes the empty house even more bittersweet. But we will do our best to love them well. We have had fine examples.
I understand and feel for you all. Praying for you, your parents and family through this journey.
Thank you friend!
We are on parallel tracks. Totally understand and I’m praying for you!
Thank you Lori! May God also strengthen you and bless your family!
No, not melodramitic, at all!! But, the loving expressions of a loving and gratefully Blessed daughter!! We who were given the wonderful gift of loving Christian parents who introduced us to Christ, early on understand and share in your Blessings! What better gift could they have given us?? None! Life changes, a lot! But HE is with us all, as thy do. Praise God! Happy Resurrection Day!!!! Love you.
Thank you Dee!
Thanks for sharing those sweet memories!!!
Praying that the next chapter of their lives will be seasoned with love and grace as have the last 50 years.
Thank you Carol for the sweet prayer!
Well written article, Kathy. Thanks for letting us be a part of the final moving stages.
Thank you for all your help!
Thank you for sharing your heart. So many of us in this season of life face these difficult “moving on” days. You captured it well.
Yes, I have many friends going through the same thing. It is all part of life, isn’t it!?
I love this! I will miss that home as well, but I’m grateful for my memories there!
Many years of memories!
A beautiful tribute to your parents. Praying for you and your family at this emotional time.
Thank you Jane!
May God continue to bless all of you in this time of transition.
Jamie Parker
Thank you Jamie!
Kathy, I can see the great memories you have that were created in your “childhood ” home. You and your brother were truly blessed with Christian parents who lived out their faith on a daily basis not only before you but before your friends as well. Praying that all goes well for your parents and their move to Tennessee.karen
We closed my parents home too, a week ago 52 years. So many memories that will live a life time ones that were never told until we found them. You see my mother knew my dad was not well, but could not tell us girls because she loved him to much… Mom was ill and dad was her caregiver. If we know then what we know now, we maybe could of made my mom live a little longer. Mom did what she did out of love, I miss her everyday and we are trying our best to take care of dad.
I feel for you, God is holding our hands during our journey of life. And I thank him everyday… Praying your new journey will form a new story for you with love and happiness….
Sharon thank you for sharing your journey with us!
Kathy thank you for sharing. I’m going through that now.
48 years the home has been Im my family. I am 38 and have lived here my whole life. After college my parents started having health issues and chose to stay and support along the journey. They have both passed now and now my siblings and I are selling. It’s been quite a journey. It’s hard to let go. My parents passed in this house and so many gatherings, but God has been a part of the whole sale and even picked my dear friends from church to buy the home. It will be used as a ministry home to bring people together. Couldn’t have asked for a better set up them then that.
I am so sorry about the loss of your parents. It’s a strange new place to be isn’t it? The oldest living generation? But how precious that your children home will be used for ministry!