The White House

Life is full of changes! I remember years ago hearing this quote from Alphonse Kerr: "The more things change, the more they remain the same." I didn’t really get it at the time, but I’m starting to understand more as I go along in life. Our family is at something of a turning point now, and I’m feeling so nostalgic about it that I want to collect some memories here.


What’s happening is that we are selling the house we have owned in Provo for almost 13 years. It’s a simple house but it’s unique and special. More than anything, it’s full of memories. And that is really the only explanation for the gnawing question: How can I be so attached to a house where I’ve never lived? It’s full of memories of my own children who have lived there, as well as their many friends. There are memories of buying the house, investing in it together as a family, working on it to make it serviceable, and furnishing it. From here the stories go on to the ward and family gatherings; the dating and romances; the many autumns, winters, springs and summers. There were innumerable trips back and forth to school on bicycles, on foot, on motorcycles and in cars and buses. There were times when it was being used by family only, and times when others were living there with some of our children; it would be interesting to recount everyone who has lived there during those years.


We find it so hard to close this chapter in our family story that we didn’t even decide to sell the house until last month, when it became obvious that the time had come. Now we will only own it for two more days! At least it will still have a chance to house loved ones until the last minute, as our friends John and LeAnn Halgren will spend the weekend there.


I’m now soliciting comments from you. I would love to have a collection of memories of The White House. I would love to have one-word triggers that say it all, whole paragraphs and stories that describe and elaborate, and loads of pictures.