Love Lived Here

   We recently purchased a piece of commercial property that has a house on it.  The nicest couple from  Ukraine have been living there for over 10 years – without heat, without insulated walls, and with primitive plumbing.   They did their best to live comfortably, without any assistance from a very absent Landlord.  The house is in such disrepair, though, it’s a tear-down.  Located in a commercial zone, it’s also no longer appealing to a homeowner.  If you have been reading here for very long you know we love old houses and This Old House is a “save” of an 1835 farm house.  We thought we might renovate the little house, but once we acquired the land and inspected the house, it was clear there was far too much rot and not enough quality construction to keep it intact.  So.. we’ll remove and re-use what we can – like some of the windows, that beautiful old tub, door knobs, etc. 
   The traces left behind are evidence that Love lived in this house too, regardless of the neglect. 

Claw foot tub and beautiful glass lamps, diamond checked floor
… love lived here. 

  Santa on a window trim ledge – love lived here.

 A pink vase in a sunlit window – love lived here. 
   American flags, their adopted country – love lived here. 
    Shells on the front steps, with a little piece of pink yarn.  Love lived here…  
 Out back, an old shed… 

  with an old garden plot lying dormant out back,  tools standing in wait for the coming season.  While this little homestead’s season has come to  an end, before she goes.. you should know… love lived here.