at last...

When the doors opened up at the sale this morning there were three floors to choose from.  Eight five years of life, decades of service in the government, thousands of stitches in needlepoint.  Five bedrooms full of memories. Here are just a few of what I walked away with.

I stood in each room pausing to think of the family that lived here.

Finding respect for the place and the people who collected and saved.

While so many among me grasped and climbed through the rooms like it was a rummage sale.

American flags hung prominently in so many rooms from years of service.

With all of the belongings it was apparent no family members remained to lay claim.

Closets full of linens hung pressed and ready for parties.

Pantries lined with every serving dish imaginable.

Propped on the big soaking tub was a swim cap only a bathing beauty would wear.

Stationary poured out of the enormous kitchen drawers.

Ever prepared...gummed Dennison was in heavy supply.

Boxes kept in order of supply.

Decorations for every occasion just in case she should need it.

...and then I ventured up stairs where our hostess crafted...

This was a house full of life and laughter.

Tutus and and recitals similar to my very own.

Every book, yarn and tool accounted for all these years snatched up in mere moments going separate ways.

Yet, my heart leapt with excitement knowing I had been a small part of these years.

Even if only for a mere moment.

Because this moment might have just been one I will never forget.

Thank you Marilyn for keeping these apron patterns in the closet just for me to find...I knew I would...someday.