Bitter Sweet Good Bye

Last week we closed escrow for my clients/dear friends, Linda and Ed, that I had an absolute honor to represent to sell their home in West L.A. I’ve known them for over a decade and had to attend many of their garden parties over the years. Linda was also my loyal client for my photography business. I got to photograph many of her beautiful gardens she designed all over Los Angeles as well as some important family events.

Because this home was truly special with all the work Ed and Linda put in. When a home is loved and cared for, you can feel it when you walk in. Not only the upgrades they installed inside the 1938 home without losing the charm of the period made it quite attractive, but also the beautiful lush yet drought conscious garden Linda designed and installed made it irresistible for many of the potential buyers who walked through the property during open house. The most invaluable while invisible element of this home was that you can feel the love that filled this home. Ed and Linda raised their grandchildren, both biological and otherwise. Everyone was always welcome with open arms at this house, myself included.

So as they emptied the home to hand over to the new owners, it was inevitably very emotional even for myself. So many memories were made here for everyone. They’re embarking on their new chapter of their life in South Carolina where other family members await. I’m sure they will create a special place for everyone to make more memories, and hopefully I will get to visit sometime.

When I went to the house after they left on their one-way flight to make sure it was ready for the new owners, I treated myself and picked some more oranges in the backyard and cried some more. The new owners who won the bid will for sure love and care for this home just as well. It is this cycle of life, bitter sweet impermanence that I’m grateful to be present for.