It’s brittle with age. It has endured hurricanes, nor’easters, an earthquake, cosmetic and structural repairs, toddlers and cats. The walls are solid but not quite plumb. The roofline sags. It would never win “Best in Show”. But we aren’t parting with it any time soon.

This little house’s imperfections have become part of its character and charm, and a reminder to all (especially me) that things don’t have to be magazine-perfect to be special.  We’re filling the house with memories, which over the years become fused to its foundation like gumdrops to 10-year-old royal icing.  (Fortunately, chocolate bells are protected by foil and therefore can be pried off and eaten in a moment of desperation.) This is our home – cracks, sags, missing bells and all.