I’m sitting here at an open window — my window — enjoying the pleasant breeze. Later, I’m sure, it will be hot, but for now, it’s perfect weather. (Meaning I am neither huddled in layers of clothes nor dripping with sweat.)
It’s odd to think that I own a window. Actually, seventeen windows. (Eighteen if you count the board on the garage I painted to look like a window.)
It’s odd, too, to think I own a floor.
I haven’t become entirely used to thought of owning a whole house, but the idea is growing on me. Still, when I was admiring my freshly mopped floor the other day, it struck me that the floor belonged to me. I’ve always rented or lived with someone else, and I assumed I’d always live in a house or room someone else owned. I’ve also always been a minimalist since possessions tend to weigh me down, but here I am, upsizing when so many others are downsizing.
So now I own windows, floors, ceilings, walls, roof. And furniture!!
I also own a town. Well, I don’t own it in that I don’t have a deed to the town, but I own it by dint of walking the streets, buying at the stores, volunteering for various events, talking to people I meet.
All this ownership has masked one lack — there is nowhere close by to hike. I could drive long distances to go to the mountains, and someday I might, but for now, I stay close to home.
I did find a nice loop walk, though. It takes me along the edge of town and out to the country. The views are simple — I live too far east of the mountains to catch even a glimpse of a peak.
I’ve almost always lived within view of the mountains, so this viewlessness is rather a change, but (juggling hands, here) my own house . . . or . . . mountain view. Not a hard choice!
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Pat Bertram is the author of Grief: The Inside Story – A Guide to Surviving the Loss of a Loved One. “Grief: The Inside Story is perfect and that is not hyperbole! It is exactly what folk who are grieving need to read.” –Leesa Healy, RN, GDAS GDAT, Emotional/Mental Health Therapist & Educator.
Bertram's Blog 
August 27, 2019 at 1:20 pm
Welcome to the club of homeowners.
August 27, 2019 at 3:25 pm
Thank you. It’s been an adventure!
August 28, 2019 at 8:12 am
Pausing a moment do I ponder, do I own the squirrels? I’m pretty sure they believe they own the garden.
Loved reading this. Happy upsizing!
August 28, 2019 at 2:35 pm
I think you’re right about the squirrels. Or any creature. They own our yards. We’re allowed to use the space at their sufferance
August 28, 2019 at 9:59 am
“It’s odd to think that I own a window.” What a great sentence that is. You can take it so many different directions from that kind of beginning.
August 28, 2019 at 2:36 pm
Thanks for pointing out what a good sentence it is. It will be the first line of my new book!
August 28, 2019 at 9:48 pm
Love it.
August 29, 2019 at 6:31 am
It’s interesting how life changes us. I am glad to hear that you are enjoying your “home”. I really miss those pine trees in Co. The ones out here are not as nice. You are “getting into” the things in your area, which is great. Continue to explore, learn & meet people. It keeps the brain alive & expanding.
August 29, 2019 at 4:58 pm
I miss the pine trees too. Someday maybe I’ll take a day and go to the mountains.