I always fall in love with my home again as soon as a long trip is on the horizon. As the departure date draws near, I start feeling a little angst, a little melancholy, and a little pre-homesickness. I know, I know – it’s crazy, dumb, a waste of energy . . . but I can’t help it. I’m a homebody who loves to travel.
While I’m preparing everything – home, animals, garden, clothes, lists for certain people, etc., I’m keenly aware of leaving everything and everyone behind, and it makes me a little . . . well, sad.
Why is it that as soon as you anticipate not being a part of your daily routine, your routine seems rapturous. Go figure.
When you think about it, I guess it’s sort of a good thing – a nice reminder of how much the everyday-ness of your life means to you. But it does kinda suck a bit of the pre-vacation joy out of things.
I only wish that these feelings of rapture lasted in that everyday-ness. Funny how the view of your life alters a little when you’re leaving it behind. All of a sudden, I see more clearly everything I love – the cozy kitchen and morning ritual, my garden with all its successes and failures, the squeaky front door (Michael, please don’t oil it!), where the floor creaks in certain spots, and even the regular schtick of errands and chores. It all seems wonderful.
A little dramatic, maybe. But the sense of absolute love of place is completely real.
Our homes are so important to us, to our well-being, don’t you think? But how often do we show gratitude for the strong roof, walls and hallways that give us shelter? For the treasures that lie within and all the memories of family and friends that the place holds.
Coming home at the end of the day or a long vacation is like walking into a big hug from someone you love – because, after all, it is “someone” you love. It’s a combination of joy, peace, safety and love — all held inside a body of wood, nails, plaster and a little paint.
So here I am – steadying myself to say goodbye, while staying focused on all the bits and pieces of what I’m sad to leave.
But leave I must. Today we’re heading out on another European adventure (stay tuned for updates). I’m excited. No, really, I am.
Before I step away, however, I’m going to walk through my beloved home and garden sharing my gratitude for all they give to me every day, and then say adieu for just a brief respite. And promise, I will, to bring home a treasure or two just for them (wink wink).
Tell me. How much do you love your home?
Till next time, Happy Autumn!
Judy
Home to me is all about family and love. It’s everything.
Author
it’s all that matters!
You described it perfectly!! I have the same reservations every time I leave my home for any length of time. It’s fun to go but then I can’t wait to get home to my (maybe dull to some) routines, my friends, my family. My home is always a haven of safet
y, love and memories. When I see homeless people, I always feel grateful for what I have in my life. I’m very lucky!
Author
I feel the same way, sis – so fortunate to know where I’ll rest each and every night. Home is definitely our refuge.
Safe trip Judy,
Yes. After a long trip, I am always so happy to return to my routine which I call my beloved rut. Just as a cow happily leaves the meadow to follow her cow path home to a warm barn.That’s the Wisconsin in me.
Author
I love that! Yep that’s me – a little ol’ cow following her path back to a warm barn. haha
Judy – I felt like I was reading something that my mother wrote because she too was such a homebody and being at home was her happiest place. My dad never had that feeling and I don’t when I travel – which made me wonder if it’s more a woman thing (am I allowed to say that?).
Author
LOL yes, you’re allowed to say that, Peter. In that vein, I could say that women are probably more connected to their homes and gardens because they spend more time caring for them. Is that ok to say? 🙂
For a while I was looking for a slightly larger place. One with 2 bedrooms and space for a washer and dryer. And as soon as I started that search I realized how much I love the view from my living room through the fig leaves in summer with squirrels and an occasional raccoon playing in the branches. I knew i wouldn’t find that anywhere else, even in another unit in my complex. So I’m staying put, making the most of the space I have and upgrading some of the finishes. My little nest deserves the best. 😊