This is the day. We have a few more items to deal with before we tape the last box or two closed (quickly run bed linens through washer and dryer and pack them up with the pillows). But I came downstairs this morning to this in the living room
And this in the kitchen
And that action is pretty much happening in every room, so we’re just about ready for the truck which arrives by barge about 11.
I took my cuppa out on the back deck and thought a bit about leaving this
And that I won’t see my oak-leaf Hydrangea (quercifolia)’s lacy white flower head this year–it’s just beginning to bloom
But, you know, perhaps so are we…
At any rate, no more time to sit around contemplating. Another few hours of work and a bit of fussing over handling of fragile objects, and then we’re outta here!
Strange how belongings become depersonalised when they are in boxes. And then out they'll come and take on new life, just like you and Pater. It is the next exciting stage, not an ending. A remembering gratefully, and then looking forward. Bon déménagement!
It's true — the shifts happen in the process and propel towards the next stage. . . Merci!
You are Mutter Courage,dear Frances!
Beautiful weather and play of light in the house wishes you good bye and good luck!
So do I (without good bye)!
Adventure begins!
Dottoressa
Ah, good of' Mother Courage. . . 😉 thank you!
Good luck! Can't wait to hear from you when you are on the other side!
Here I am, Sarah! Waving 😉
Best of luck with the move! Can hardly wait to see the new digs once you're settled.
Me too! Wish the sellers didn't selfishly (#kiddingnotkidding) want the summer to pack up.
Keep blooming Frances! 💪🌈🌞🌺🌻
Thanks! Holy emojis! 😉
And you will bloom in the new garden! It's a wrench, I know, that last look, that walk out the door. Deep breath, big hug.
And it's done! And there will be new adventures, thank you!
Fond farewells. One last look back and then on you go. You created a lovely life in your island home–and will do the same in your new home.
Thanks Elle. This is a reassuring way to look at it!
Good luck ! … and a Happy Landing in a few hours !!!
YES! with both feet firmly on the floor!
Good luck with everything! Those last few days are always very strange, with everything in boxes.
It's odd, indeed, and actually a good state to remember, the reduction to what's really important. . .
Sending you wishes for the gentlest of journeys. Thank you for all you bring to this online community.
Ah Sarah, thank you! and you're very welcome. 😉
I hope that you have a peaceful transition day. I'm sure that a new era in your life
is just beginning.
Thanks for those thoughts, Mme. Much appreciated.
Best of British, Mater. By now I hope you're snugly ensconced somewhere peaceful with a cup of tea or a glass of wine. One foot in front of the other. And the gentlest of journeys to you from me too (what a lovely expression, Sarah)
We did have a lovely relaxing couple of days, beer, tea, nothing to do but feed ourselves. Thank you!
I hope the day went well for you. I have been reading your posts but haven't commented. I could say that it is due to time, but after reading this, and doing a little soul-searching, I have to admit that it is because what you have written, all along, comes very close to the bone for me. I thought I'd made peace with leaving Pondside. In my defense I remind myself that there hasn't been much time since the move for me to come to terms with it. Your posts helped because they encouraged me to think about it all. Thanks, Frances, and best of luck in this phase of tradition. Thanks for your honesty and the generosity that is part of sharing your experience.
Yikes! …..phase of TRANSITION!!! Mea culpa.
First of all, yes, yes you have been rather too busy with arguably much bigger concerns to spend time missing your lovely home.
And second, thanks for taking time to process and share these feelings. Right now, I'm riding on relief and on the excitement of moving forward, but I won't be surprised if a certain melancholy, sadness, wistfulness, or whatever, begins to surface. And you're very welcome, and really too kind.
Wow! It is really happening .. A huge piece of work- physically and mentally. The house tends to look weird and bereft with everything packed and a limbo time ahead- remember the chaos will settle, emotions of all kinds are expected and all are okay. You are setting a great example for those of us still on the fence about our next move. Lead on! Jennifer
Thanks, Jennifer. Honestly, I took my last looks before the house was emptied, and that was enough for me. Suspect (as I said, above, to Pondside) there will be waves of various emotions to surf yet. . .
Hugs as you venture forth. Sleep well and wake up rested, ready to live another chapter. -Marianne in North Van
Thanks, new neighbour 😉
" The truck which arrives by barge " – not an expression I've heard before & it illustrates the difficulties of living on the island . So , the worst is over . We wait for the next installment , literally – Exciting .
Wendy in York
It's true — island life poses some particular, even peculiar, challenges. And those are all behind me now!
Thanks Wendy.
Hi Frances, you've been in my thoughts a lot, these last few days. Hope your move went smoothly and not too many tears were shed.
Exciting times ahead!
Rosie
It went very well, considering. And yes, I'm focus on exciting times ahead. There will be changes!
And now you are really fully into your new adventure. No turning back. Excitement ahead, and hopefully more joy than worry.