It’s hard to clear the life out of a house.
It goes into Hefty bags and worn out boxes.
Possessions and treasured keepsakes alike become things, just stuff. Or, so you tell yourself.
You will detach and then instantly reattach, second guessing what to do with each and every article.
Personal documents are shredded.
Each piece of clothing is removed from its hanger and you will bury your face in collars and breathe in, just in case a scent still lingers.
Taking a bitter sweet trip down memory lane, photos are studied and divided.
Books containing underlined sentences are set aside with an overwhelming desire to go back read later.
Some things are donated to Salvation Army or Goodwill in hopes that they will find a new home, others are gifted to family and friends with love.
Many items are carefully wrapped in tissue paper and bubble wrap, saved for reasons yet unknown.
Countless trips and decisions will be made.
A storage unit will quickly be filled.
An estate sale will be held.
This house will no longer feel like a home.
Improvements will begin, slowly at first and then with shear determination… new tile, carpet, paint, appliances.
Before you know it, five years will go by.
There will be major set backs, a lot of tears and frustration.
There will also be acceptance and peace.
A realtor will eventually be contacted and a “For Sale” sign posted.
An offer will be accepted.
After piles of paperwork, several e-mails and much negotiation, escrow will close.
If you think it’s hard to clear the life out of a house, try two lives.
This house was once a home. December 1990 – June 2012.
