In April 2021, we became the proud owners of our homestead, previously owned by my sister and her husband. When the time came for us to buy a house and relocate nearer to family, I approached my sister about the possibility of purchasing theirs. Fortunately, they were looking for more room to accommodate their family of five, making it a perfect fit for both parties. It holds special significance for me, as many cherished family gatherings and holidays were hosted here when I used to live farther away. I sensed that this house was where I could finally anchor my wandering roots and find a sense of belonging. Here, I would have the opportunity to embrace a slower pace of life and relish in the simple joys of everyday living.

Like my sister and her husband before us, upon the purchase of the house we inherited a large, broken chest freezer that had long languished in the basement. Determined to reclaim space in our root cellar, we set out to remove it before the citywide clean-up deadline approached. Despite our initial efforts, the freezer proved too heavy and cumbersome to move alone, requiring additional manpower.

Thankfully, our 16-year-old son and his best friend came to our aid. With their help, we successfully maneuvered the freezer up the stairs and out of the house. Their assistance not only solved a decades-old problem but also provided the opportunity for the boys to earn a little extra money. We’re immensely grateful for the support of our friends, whose collaboration reminds us of the strength and resilience that comes from facing challenges together.