We've Lost the Paynes

This morning I feel much the same way as I did when KJAMBD moved out of Bayport. I'm not talking about back-pain; I'm talking about regret. Regret that we took JC&CO. for granted and didn't see them as much as we should have while they were close.

Yesterday, they packed up their earthly possessions and set out for a new home.



What about the area? I love it. It is a beautiful area that, if the people who stopped by are any indication, is populated by hard working, salt of the earth people. Being in the company of people like this always has me questioning why any of us choose to live in larger cities.

One thing I noticed is that the sky seemed much prettier in their new location. Although I didn't capture it in the photos, the clouds seemed closer and fluffier than those at home. We will have to visit more to see if there really is a difference.



What about their house? I am jealous. Because of Crystal's modesty I was not expecting such a nice home. It is newly built and quite beautiful. The large porch on the front is just asking for chairs to be set up so the adults can visit while the cousins play.



The land that the house is situated on is even better. Is has trees, a dugout, barbwire fence, and an old barn. The perfect recipe for a happy boyhood. Jeremy and Crystal brought a big-screen TV and some news toys along with them - according to Crystal, because they were worried that Chaim and Oscar would have nothing else to do out there. I applaud Jeremy for so cleverly gaining approval for a new TV, but really it's Mason, Tyson, and Deacon who I was worried about. Until now, they didn't really have a place where they could go to snare gophers.



I should have taken the house pictures before we moved all of their things inside. Here is a picture of the kitchen and dining area. My favorite feature of the kitchen is the awesome pantry that has a switch in the door frame so the light comes on as soon as you open the door. The master bedroom is on the left and the front door is on the right. Ahead on the left is a hallway that goes to the laundry room, side door, back door, and stairs to the basement. Behind me to the left is another bedroom and a bathroom and behind me to the right is the living room.



Living room. That piano looks pretty good there.



Here is the large room in the basement. On the right is the landing to the stairs and a furnace room and storage room. Ahead is another bathroom and two bedrooms.



Even though I wish they hadn't moved, I have to admit that it was probably a good move for them and their kids. It may even turn out to be good for our family and we are looking forward to having such a fun place to visit.



- C