I have so much to say... and don't know where to begin. I'll start out by saying, Jake and I and the girls drove 18 hours just to get to Eureka, California, my hometown. It usually takes 14 but with kids, much longer.
Have you ever wondered if you have any deep reservoirs of patience? Do you wonder if you have what it takes to make it through a traumatic experience and come out in one piece? Well get in the car with your kids and take a really long road trip. That'll do it. That'll teach you what your strengths and weaknesses are! But for the most part, it was nice to be together. For better or worse.
About an hour from Eureka, while Jake drove us through the redwoods up the coast, I answered the phone call from my parents that said the graveside service that was supposed to be that day was cancelled. Because of the earthquake in Japan (so, so terrible) a large part of the coast was under a tsunami warning. Businesses, such as mortuaries, were not permitted (by F.E.M.A.) to conduct their usual business. The mall and most other places were closed.
A huge bummer.
It was, however, really nice to spend some quiet family time in the funeral home talking about my Grandmother. She was a fantastic lady, full of incredible vigor and laughter and music.
We were only in Eureka for a short time and squeezed in as much as we could.
I hadn't been home in 6 years. I had missed it so much. I walked in my parent's house and immediately started crying. Everything I saw and touched was beautiful. My mom's nicknacks and wall hangings and books that she's had since before I was born, every single thing reminded me of my childhood and each one carried a million memories.
It was so good for my soul to be home. I reflected on myself quite a bit. I was just so happy to be there. Everything in that town is such a part of me. The grass and the constantly wet ground, the cold wind, the rain, the trees. It's all so beautiful.
My girls loved being there and exploring their Grandma and Grandpa's house. My brother and sister still live at home and are incredible with our kids.
Until next time---
11 comments:
I gave a huge sigh when you were talking about feelings of being home. I know that feeling with own home. Im so glad that your family got to go with you too.
love it! i felt the same way when returning home. but then my parents moved (and moved again and moved again) so their home now doesn't have quite the same effect on me.
beautiful photos. the lighting on the coast (???) is perfect.
Hey, I just realized I've been to Eureka. I hiked the Lost Coast Trail once (and threw my hiking boots in the ocean afterwards because I had such horrible blisters from hiking on the beach). That town was a TRIP! I feel like I know you so much better now that I know your roots.
i am willing myself to remember the event that brought you home, so that i can remain caring and thoughtful, and not be jealous of all these wonderful pictures and the time spent with family.
love you...
You're such a natural beauty & it's great to see where it all comes from.
You are beautiful. And you captured "home" perfectly. I felt like I knew it before you even wrote about it.
I hope the girls get more chances to know your home better. It looks like a place every person should know (and feel)
Sarah. Why. Why do you do this to me. You make me cry. You make me love. You make me feel. You make me want to be home. You make me want to have a home filled with children. You make me miss. You are wonderful. You capture everything I want to remember.
Be my teacher.
Sarah. I literally teared up through this entry. That house brings me back! Your family makes me smile. I am so blessed to have known the Medleys...
I love you. I love your family. I loved the photos of your children and your parents... playing, looking, being. I hurt for your loss, and am glad for you that you were able to COME HOME. It is pretty darn wonderful here.
You have made me homesick for my sweet little corner of California! I'm sorry for your reasons for the trip but glad you were able to spend some time with family.
How awesome for you to be home... after 6 years that is crazy! What gorgeous photos you took and what a great family you have. Seeing these photos reminded me of being in your home as well. Hope you are doing well. I miss you!
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