The physical structure within which one lives, such as a house or apartment.
A dwelling place together with the family or social unit that occupies it.
An environment offering security and happiness.
A valued place regarded as a refuge or place of origin.
The place, such as a country or town, where one was born or has lived for a long period.
The place where something is discovered, founded, developed, or promoted; a source.
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What is your definition of 'home'?
I have now, by this point, lived in Georgia for 2 years longer than I lived in Illinois. I certainly feel that I have made myself at home here and have many who are near and dear to me that I would never want to leave in a million years. So, why is it that when those endless miles of lush cornfields come into view, I still feel the tug on my heartstrings?
Do I really feel that strongly about fresh corn on the cob?
No. That can't be it. (Although, it is hard to beat fresh Illinois corn in the summertime.)
It must just simply be because it's still 'home' in my heart.
Mid pleasures and palaces though we may roam, be it ever so humble; there's no place like home. John Howard Payne
You know, after we had first moved down here, we managed to make it 'back home' about 3 times a year. Then, it got to be just for Christmas. Now, we rarely make the trek.So much of our extended family has since moved away to all different places. And we, ourselves have more or less, 'moved on'. We lost Grandma Mary 4 years ago, and this weekend, we said our final good-byes to Grandma Lou.
Once again, our ties get loosened.
Where we once retreated to share in hugs, smiles and fellowship over a home-cooked meal fit for a king, we now seem to simply share in memories.
And maybe that explains my tender heart toward my heartland. It not only houses all the corn and beans you could ever imagine - it also houses my childhood. And now, so many cherished memories of loved ones.
My roots.
A home is not a mere transient shelter; its essence lies in the personalities of the people who live in it. H.L. Mencken
But, as many memories as there may be that flood over me as I descend over those sweet corn fields, I must remember that these memories all live within me and I take them wherever I might go.They are all a part of me.
My grandmas are a part of me. And until the day when we all get to gather in our heavenly home around the most glorious feast we've ever laid eyes on, I will continue to cherish every part.
5 comments:
Once again you've touched me, sweet girl. I'll be going now...I need to dry my eyes.
Great post. I feel that way about where my dad was from and the summers I spent there. No matter how old we get or how far away we may be, there's just something about 'home.'
You know, I just think there is something about beginnings. That's what makes it so special, it was your beginning.
I feel the same way about the house I grew up in. Luckily, mom & dad still live there, and I feel in my heart, eventually one day it will be mine. Which makes me both sad & happy, but it's also kind of comforting.
I'm sorry for your recent loss.
Shana
That's really a good way of putting how I feel too. Great post!
Great post, Jess. I still remember the feeling of driving by my grandma's house after she died and seeing the front porch swing where we spent so much time. Every time I drive back to Kentucky I am flooded with memories and emotions. Looks like you had some great memories.
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