the cottage

Today was a sad day.  My mom sold the cottage.  I’m slightly tearing up just thinking about it.

40 years of memories, lots of which are tied to my dad.

17 years of my mom being next door, and me helping her with the place.

Lots of firsts.

With all the memories of the summers as a child to go along with them.

Lots of people share stories of what they remember as a child, and for me, the cottage was fun (until high-school when my mom made me to calculus on the porch).  The cottage was building sand castles, playing with people (the toys), and slamming into the boat at high speed.

Hours and hours of card games.  Hearts with the Phillip’s.  Visuals of my dad sitting in the recliner and reading.  The ski boat.  The cliffs.  All the things I got to do as a kid, that really made my childhood great.  I was spoiled, and I’ll miss it.

Now the reality.  I have the place next door.

I was able to keep the place, give my kids the same experience I had, and take care of my mom at the same time.  I’m grateful for all the meals that Mary made and included her in.  I’m grateful for all the memories we were able to form, and the memories that are still to come.

I am sad.  A chapter has closed.  We shall see what the future brings.  I’m sure it will be wonderful.