A sense of place in my ever-evolving home
In our ever-changing lives, our homes are the thread that weaves together the stories of our past, present, and future. Change is an inevitable companion, and as the chapters of our lives unfold, so does the landscape of our homes.
It may be difficult, sometimes, to maintain a sense of place as the winds of change blow through. If you’ve been following along, you will probably know that my youngest son has moved into the guest bedroom, and that I have cleared the front bedroom to make room for a toddler’s own space. Don’t get me wrong. I am honoured that my children love me enough to feel that they can move in with me and still keep their own identities and enjoy their lives. I have opened the door to new beginnings and celebrate the prospect of shared memories and the creation of a nurturing environment.
As my life evolves, so too should the spaces within my home. I’m truly and definitely embracing change! Welcoming a toddler into my home on a semi-permanent basis means that I need to let go of some notions of what my own time means to me, I count myself lucky that I can open my arms and my heart to spending time with my grandchild. Maintaining a sense of self requires open and honest communication, which I encourage at all times – so everybody’s voice is heard.
My home is not merely a place. It is a feeling. A sanctuary that evolves with me. My home is my constant. A reflection of who I am, and a testament to the beauty of grown and transformation.
As I embrace the change from having a house all to myself to include others, I surrender to sweet disarray sometimes. In this transformation, my house becomes more than just a dwelling: it becomes a living testament to the boundless capacity of the heart to expand and make room for new beginnings.
And I realize that the transition from having the house to myself to the addition of a son and a toddler (part-time) demands the art of letting go. Perfectly arranged spaces may shift and change. It is a lesson in flexibility, adaptability and the profound realization that a home’s true beauty lies not in its order but in the stories it holds. The future stories it will create.
I am still navigating the changes and finding ways to accommodate this new phase. I’m still, also, cleaning and clearing and rearranging. Top floor is 99% done. Basement comes next. I’m off to vacuum and mop the floors.
Until I write again, keep creating!
Ana
PS: By the way, I’m putting it out there. I am going to be the coolest Abu ever!. This child is going to paint, sew, get dirty, and learn all kinds of fun stuff. I can’t wait.
Love to hear your thoughts as it is a journey to get to that level of maturity.
It is so wonderful as a grandma to experience the delight and joy of a young child in their discovery of new people, new surroundings and new activities that help to develop and stimulate their growing minds. You will have a wonderful permanent place in their heart that will never leave them and it goes without saying that they will have the same in your heart. Enjoy some of the best times of your life.
Marg
Thanks Marg. I’m having a great time seeing him grow up and become a young child discovering new things. Thanks for writing.
How precious to get to share in those early days of your grandchild’s life. If your son is planning a long stay, you might consider chalkboard paint for a wall of the child’s room. After he or she grows into legos, mats can be placed on the wall to design with Legos. I do heartily recommend washable crayons and markers to begin with. Have fun.
It is a wonderful time. I’m not sure how long he’ll stay. He needs to get his own place and get back to his own life – his own words – but he knows he’s welcome to stay for as long as he needs. We are taking it one day at a time right now. Thanks for the suggestions.
Ana,
What a lucky child to have you as a grandma. And how fortunate that you are abundantly aware
of the gift it is to spend time with your grandchild. I am fortunate to do so with 2 of my 3. Sadly, I seldom get to see the youngest. A loss for both of us.
Your emails are always inspiring and relatable. Thank you so much for taking the time from your busy life to write them.
Thanks for saying that. I am glad you enjoy reading the posts. All the best,
Ah! With a creative Abu like you, Ana, the little one will learn so many valuable skills! Congratulations on this beautiful change of pace.
Thanks Carla! I am waiting for the time to take him downstairs to make a royal mess with paint and dyes! We are going to have a grand time!
I so love and appreciate your writings
Well said!!!!
Thank you. That means a lot to me. All the best,
Most joy is to have a grandchild around. And spoiling them is grandmothers’ duty. Have fun!
You are absolutely right Emilie. Thanks for writing. Lots of love,