My home

 I’ve been single longer than I can remember, and I have long since accepted it, preferred it. But there were times I may have longed for a companion. Such an odd word. I recently spent a winter month in Florida. When I pulled into my driveway the dingy brown and grey yard that welcomed me could not compare to the bold sunny days and skies I had just left. I unpacked. Day after day I got back into my routines. I am currently sitting in front of a roaring fire. Dog sleeping in my lap. This home has been such a comfort to me. First and only owned home. It’s pine walls wrapped their arms around me when we first moved in. I was a bit broken and lost. I used to rent and move literally every 6 months or so. This old house rooted me. My backyard rewarded me with nature and wildlife that  I used to look for in my camping travels. Year after year like a trusted companion this home held me while I faced my troubles. It was my safe place to explore the whys of the past. I enjoyed countless hours of solitude while I found my way. There were also many joys. Reading, cooking, baking and just sitting and observing the birds and the sky and clouds. A couple times determined to move south I thought “I’ll sell…”  I didn’t have the heart to. Our daily connection of good and bad days made this partnership stronger. I may have been single all these years but this home taught me loyalty and nurturing, things I lacked in my young marriages. I thrive alone and I guess that is meant to be but I do have a trusted companion in this old home.