There is an inner sense of calm in this new place I call home.. it is a sense of belonging, a sense of one-ness with the very essence of it. From the time we dreamed of its existence through all the times when we planned and implemented our ideas.. to this time, when we now inhabit this dwelling that we so lovingly built on this ground, I hoped for this feeling. And it is true. And real. And lovely.
And it is not just the dwelling itself. It is all that it is. It is the land that we so lovingly chose. A perfect spot for us. I love how I can see the sun rise from a spot near my front door and the sun set from there as well. I love hearing the rooster crow in the very early morning from a place not too terribly far away.. and the call of the birds as they sing to one another from big, beautiful old trees that surround me. It is the fresh, crisp mornings and the beautiful, quiet evenings. I love how I can almost feel the sweet settling in of new beautiful flowers and trees and bushes that have been planted in my yard. They are soaking in the moisture and the light and finding their special spot in their new home.. our home. And they are blooming nicely.
I love the sense of belonging to this new place – yes, it is new, but somehow, it feels as though it was always meant to be. I’ve loved every place I’ve ever lived and remember each with a special fondness for all that it was and for all the special memories I keep within my heart. Yet, this place, this new place that is home, is unique. It is a place where we chose to live.. for a long, long time. It is a place where I am never lonely. It is a place where love and acceptance surround me and where I feel purpose and meaning and fullness of life. I have my loved ones very close and a part of my world. And it is a good feeling.
I am thankful for this new place I call home. I am thankful for the vision and the dream that kept us plodding ahead, hoping and planning for the future. I am thankful for this piece of land and the chance to make our vision come alive. And I am thankful for the love that has surrounded us in our journey to make this home become reality. And that it is… It is truly home.

~ Carole Carter – words and photograph