Goodbye, Old Friend
Monday, September 12, 2011
Recently, I went through the process of sorting through 23 years' worth of my family's belongings. It was a bittersweet but necessary exercise. Whatever we did not dispose of was coming to my house to be used (or stored for future use) so it was important to me to pare things down to the most meaningful pieces. Two dumpsters later, we were done. This weekend, my father and I made one more trip to the house to supervise the movers who would be helping us make this last transition.
As my father was providing direction to the movers, I took a walk around for one last sentimental look. While I was remembering all the wonderful times we had had there, I was particularly struck by the views - images burned in my memory - as I moved around the house. So I took a few minutes to capture those that meant the most to me.
Row 1: View from the front door (L) and out to the back yard (R)
Row 2: View from my desk (L) and across the living room and my dad's loft study (R)
Row 3: View of the iving room and fireplace (L) and up out the breakfast area skylight (R)
Row 4: View out the dining room (L) and up to the second floor from the breakfast area (R)
Oh, the house was beautiful that day, if showing a bit of wear. I am still amazed to think that my parents had such a strong hand in designing it back in the 80s. I know that contemporary style homes were all the rage at the time but I like to think that the loft spaces, kitchen island, restaurant-quality stove, and other details were forward thinking at the time. The listing is due to go up soon. Our fingers are crossed in the hope that, in this market, we may get a fair deal. But with trip, I've said my goodbyes. It's all logistics from here.
See more of my images like these in my Instagram gallery.
Photography | tagged Mae
Reader Comments (4)
Beautiful and so sentimental. Glad you got to catalogue it.
I love these glimpses into your memory - so evocative. When my parents sold my childhood home 12 years ago I wasn't into photography and didn't capture any compelling images. They're all stored in my memory, but I love how you've translated yours here.
I remember your parents beautiful, light-filled home from when I was in middle school and your sister would invite me over. It is such a gorgeous house. I know someone will will love it and see it for the treasure it is!
ps - your blog is awesomesauce. with a side of gravy.
xo, Julie
@elise: so glad we moved back in time for me to be here in person for this transition.
@kim (forever moseyalong in my mind!): isn't it a pity we weren't all born with cameras in our hands? i often think of all the moments & travels i've missed shooting properly. a great excuse for return visits, i suppose!
@julie: thx for your generous words. (hooray for awesomesauce!) i can't believe you can still remember it after all these years! i do have memories of you & t together. thx for stopping by! (ps i love your site, too!)