I have been fortunate enough to only move two times my whole life. Once when I was a baby, and then again when I was in early elementary school to the house I have spent the past 15 years in. In those 15 years, those four walls have seen the homecoming of my cat and two dogs, many Christmases, and even the homecoming of my little brother. Sometimes I think we forget how important our homes are. They may provide us with protection, but for most families, their houses are so much more than just four walls. So this is a thank you letter to those four walls that shaped me into the person I am today.
To The House That Built Me,
I still get excited to come home to you. You are my comfort zone, and my escape from the outside world. I don't think I have ever told you just how thankful I am for you, so here it goes.
Thank you for not being judgmental. You have seen so many of my failed Pinterest recipes, my horrid middle school years (throwback to braces and bright makeup... yuck), and the side of me family fights can bring out, and you still welcome me home with open arms. So thank you for not caring about what I look like, or how upset I can get.
Thank you for being my own personal playground. My siblings and I have created some of the coolest forts in the living room. I have spent hours dancing around in my bedroom to Shania Twain throwbacks. I have trashed the kitchen countless times making cookies. And who could forget the swing set out back that I used to spend my summer evenings on? Parks are great, but you are the best place to have fun.
Thank you for being my safe haven. There was nothing like coming home to the comfort of you after a bad day at school. You let me cry and scream music at the top of my lungs until I felt better, and I thank you for that.
Thank your for being strong. You have seen many spring storms, the dreadful ice storm of 2009, and the usual wear and tear a family with pets gives a house. And you still stand strong. So thank you for being there no matter what.
Lastly, thank you for the sweet memories that I will never be able to replace. Like family Christmases spent around the fireplace. Or the days I used to spend in my room while the sunshine shined through my window while I played with my dollhouse and Barbies. I'm so glad I have got to share these memories, along with so many others, with you. You will always be my home.
May your foundation always stand strong, and may you see many more memories made.
Love,
Me.
