Things I learned packing my rent's house.

A lot of us are reaching that age where we are becoming the "adults" to our parents.  This trip "home" to PA reflected that as my brother and I took charge of packing and making decisions regarding my parents house and home of 56 plus years.  All 3 of the siblings were there, along with my SIL.  I experienced a lot of emotions and learned a few things as well.

1.  I never knew your appendages could swell that much from being on your feet so much.
2.  It's really not a good idea to feed a dog, cat food. (Don't ask!)
3.  I took two showers a day, and to be honest, could have probably done with a third.
4.  Never thought I'd see the day when my brother would love a dog the size of my dogs head!  However, I did fall in love with the little thing.
5.  It's hard to have one person lead when the majority of us are A type people and people in leadership positions in our respective jobs!  We made it work!
6.  I had NO idea that we could actually pack up 85% of their house in 5 days!
7.  I have never seen (and don't WANT to see) that many Precious Moments in my life!
8.  My mom has a TON of "artsy" stuff!  Any color thread you need, she had!
9.  It's hard to throw away things you know your mom made.
10.  I am sure it was really hard for my dad to watch us do what we did and let us lead.  He showed a lot of trust and grace.
11.  A house is just a building, but it was hard to walk away.
12.  Family and close friends are all you have...treasure them.  Work through the hard times, communicate and love.
13.  Stuff is just stuff.  Don't get me wrong, I took a lot of "stuff" to remember our life there and my mom.  But ultimately it really doesn't matter.
14.  I hate driving.
15.  We all need to downsize.
16.  Rest areas are creepy.
17.  I have great respect for my younger brother who showed such wisdom, grace and compassion in leading my dad through the week, and who will be care giving along with his family.
18.  I am thankful for an older brother who is currently living with dad to help him.
19.  I'm pretty sure every part of my body hurt, including my fingernails, if that's possible!
20.  I never want to do that again!  But, for my family, I will do anything.

While I haven't taken the time yet to really process this past week, it falls in my top 5 list of toughest times.  Getting older stinks!  It does make me realize how precious time is, how much I love my family and close friends, and how God's grace is sufficient.  Well, I'm still learning that one.