Grandpa's House

             When I was young at Grandpa’s house, I would play in the cold icy snow. I would play, even as it slowly melted through my clothes, turning my skin a bright red and feeling numb. I would eventually hear my mother call out from inside, telling me it is time to come in. I’d go in to sit in the warmth left by the fireplace, eventually tasting the chocolaty goodness of a warm cup of hot chocolate made by my Aunt. Sometimes, on rare occasions, my entire family and I would play games or watch movies all night long.

            When I was young at Grandpa’s house, I would watch as fireflies would light up the starry night sky in a golden hue. They’d flicker on and off, in tune to a beat they only knew, creating a light show for all to see. Sometime, although rarely, we’d catch them in old pickle jars, only to set them free at the end of the long night. I would sometimes, in the early morning, also try catching the small and cute brown bunnies. They’d hop around on the small hill next to Grandpa’s house. Some of the babies even lived under his tractor that he no longer used.

            When I was young at Grandpa’s house, I once fell down the stairs that led to that dark and creepy basement. There were cobwebs in the corners of the room and it reeked of dust as I walked around. I use to believe it to be haunted. I remember smelling wood and old metal as I hugged my Grandpa goodbye, before leaving to go home. When we’d come back for Christmas, all would be joy once again. We’d all take turns opening presents, feeling the crinkled wrapper on our fingertips as we tore through the box, manners long forgotten. When I leave the house, I’d feel slobber against my face and hands, as my Aunt’s two dachshund dogs happily greet me, not knowing that I’m leaving once again.

            As Christmas comes and goes, I’d feel overwhelming sadness, as I once again leave Grandpa’s house. I’d hug everyone goodbye, joking with my mother, that maybe I’d just move in with my Aunt and Grandpa. Of course, I’d never do so, as I love and treasure what I already have. When I was young, I never liked the Ocean, city, or even the islands. My Grandpa’s house was all that I ever needed or wanted. It always has been.

Inspired by: Linda Rief for When I was Young at the Ocean.