I was built before you came along, but you're the first ones that have come and stayed.

I've seen everything. I've been standing for all the laughs, the embarrassing moments, the fights, all the shenanigans.

And truly, I don't know what I'm going to do without you.

I have seen your first steps, your first words, I have housed your imaginary friends, enclosed your saddest moments behind my doors, and given you a place to rest your head for all these years.

My floors have been spilled on, my ceilings have leaked, my carpets have been peed on by your lovely four-legged furry friend, and yet, you have remained.

I have seen you sled down my snowy hill in the winter, I have seen you fall down my stairs, I have seen you play tag and hide and seek.

I have seen you through late nights of homework, early nights of falling asleep on the couch, and through your rebellious stage, even watched you sneak out of my windows at night to meet up with your friends.

I have watched your friends come and go, have witnessed bonfires in the backyard, roasting marshmallows and watching the night sky. I have felt you climb on my roof. I have seen your first kiss, I have witnessed your first heartbreak.

I have been home to mice and bugs galore, but you all have managed to kill and conquer all of them with minor shrieks and ease.

I have seen a stranger break into my fortress you call home, and steal things of yours, I'm sorry I wasn't able to stop him.

I have seen you play basketball on my pavement, always trying to get better on your free throws.

I have seen the passing of loved ones, and the mourning that follows for you when that happens.

I have seen the end of your four-legged fur ball.

I have seen mom cry, for her heart is so big.

I have watched the scary movies that give you bad dreams, and have watched over you as you rest your head and try for better ones.

I have witnessed a new furry friend joining our abode.

I have watched the joy return into the eyes of my humans.

I have watched as dad tends to the garden, weeding, mowing, planting, growing.

I have watched as my colors have changed, and my body has been gutted and re-stuffed with pretty, new furniture.

I have seen the sun shine within me every morning, and the smiles that result from my inhabitants as they feel the rays on their faces.

I have watched over the woods across the street, seeing the deer, turkeys, bunnies and squirrels that so frequently inhabit it.

I have watched you kids all learn how to drive, have seen you off to prom, and watched you move all your belongings out of me as you venture off to college, far, far away.

I have been here for your returns, yearning to house and protect you once again over the holidays.

I have watched you become grown-ups. I have seen the little versions of yourselves disappear, and new faces, experiences, and memories shape you into extraordinary beings.

I have seen you leave a million times, and come home a million and one.

I will always be here, regardless of where adventures and opportunities lead you. Standing, awaiting your return... home.