Thursday, January 20, 2011

The Big House at the Top of Harding Avenue

Do you ever have those moments, the calm before the storm type . . . moments?  I have them.  Everything feels perfect, I exhale, I close my eyes, I smile slightly and take it all in.

I'm sure I was having one of those moments when I composed my previous post.  I can almost see myself sitting at the computer, afternoon sun streaming in the window, while I gazed out over the 470; perfectly convinced that everything would continue being as wonderful and predictable as it was in that moment. 

But --

Here is the problem with the calm before the storm -- it's the calm before the storm.

In this case, the storm took the form of changes with Noah's job that eventually, (albeit quickly) led to a move to Texas.  So we're here and it's good, and I'm sure in time it will be great.  But I'm still struggling to fill the void, to ease the knot in my stomach.  We left too many things undone and underdeveloped in Wheeling.  Too many places unvisited, too many events unattended and most painful of all, too many friendships in their very beginning phases.

I wish I could even begin to sum up my feelings about the four months we spent in West Virgina. I guess the only thing to say is . . .  I just wasn't there long enough.


We spent the fall planting flowers, shrubs and a tree.  In my heart, I knew I'd never see that tree grow big enough to shade the windows from the western sun; but I thought for sure I'd see my tulips come up in the spring.  Perhaps someone else will see them and know that the big house at the top of Harding street was once home to a happy little family with a mom that loves flowers.

5 comments:

Tyler said...

Surely the saddest moment of our trip was when you finally had to drive away. I am glad that you are settled and who knows, maybe Salmon Run Way will turn out to be good for more than just descending planes, and might just help you to spawn some new friends.

Laurel said...

I had no idea! Though I've never lived in either state, I have lots of friends who absolutely LOVE everywhere in Texas. So sad to be in WV for such a short time, though... But hey, it's YOU, Mel. You guys will do awesome!

Joann's Hall of Fame said...

When I closed the door after our brief and random visit in Utah, I realized I did not know when I'd see you again and got teary. I am happy for the way the Lord is guiding your family to where you should be, but I miss you!

Unga Fam said...

Meliss... You are such a good writer.. I LOVE it. Good luck in Texas and maybe someday we can live in the same state or at least plan trips to make sure we stay close.
Love you

Hillary said...

I agree with Nat, I think you should write a book! Wish I could be closer to help, it was fun to visit while you were here. Miss you and know you will eventually feel the peace you need. I know what is it like to feel the calm before the storm. I also know what it feels like to do something based completely on your faith and direction from the spirit, not knowing what it will bring. I am proud of you for following that. We will look back on this year of our lives in a few years and say, I see.. Love you!