When our kids came for Christmas, they appreciated all I had done to prepare. They loved the ornaments on the tree, the lights in the windows, the stockings by the fireplace and the nativity sets on display. But they did have a concern. 

 

"This deck is about to fall apart. We want you to replace it. The boards are old, and we want you to be safe."

 

There are many honest contractors in town and after the gang left we called one. The manager came by to talk, and one strong candidate for change is a stone patio. If we get rid of the deck, leaving the ramp on the side to avoid steps, we can still enjoy the spring weather and eat lunch under the oak tree. 

 

We are still waiting for him to give us a start date, but it looks like construction will happen to this old house. There will be a cost. People tell us that these walls originally arrived on a truck from Sears a hundred years ago, and the parade of families who have lived here have shared wonderful stories. One woman used to climb down the oak when she snuck out as a teenager. The climbing stopped when the lowest branches grew out of reach. Other friends told us they used to roller-skate in the basement, the place where the laundry chute ended up, making wash day easier for that mother. 

 

We have added to the legacy, with a mother-in-law's apartment on the back, and an upgraded kitchen fifteen years ago. This new feature will make it easier to enjoy the warm summer evenings. 

 

The house that is my mind also needs renovations from time to time. The decisions that have become fixtures may start to leak, or get rusty. Some can be spiffed up but others need to be torn out. This can be expensive, as I pull out the footings of my status quo. But I think it is worth the price.