My Burke Drive Memoir
I was always the kid who wanted to be at home. “Sleepovers” involved midnight pick-ups or they had to be held at home. Prom pictures, homecoming pictures, end of year BBQs, birthday parties, half birthday parties, sports banquets, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and my wedding all were held at home. It was the place I felt most happy and a place everyone was always welcome.
Growing up our friends had second homes or vacation houses, but my parents poured their money and energy into our primary residence, and so our home was a vacation. Mom and dad were big believers in an open door policy -- literally the door was never locked -- and we lived by a "the more, the merrier" mentality. My parents loved having all of us kids and our friends at home with them. They got to know our friends, had peace of mind knowing we were safe, and, most importantly to them, they got to hang out with us! To our friends, my parents were Phyllis and Ken (don't you dare call him Mr. Patterson, he’s not that old…) or if your Southern mother would not allow for a first name basis, they were “Mr. Ken and Mrs. Phyllis.”
Overseeing construction
My parents' home provided a space for endless fun and adventure that was meant to be enjoyed by many. They created a safe and fun environment for us kids to be kids...and had a blast right alongside us. Saturdays were spent driving on the boat, tanning on the dock, grilling on the deck, and watching our sweet dogs swim in the pool. My brothers would wake up early in the morning and head out to the duck blinds or to catch fish. They even had a “dingy boat” they painted camo themselves. My parents have sold the house. They move out July 8th and everyone keeps asking me how I feel about it all. Well truth be told, I am sad. I am sad because it is a beautiful home filled to the brim with awesome memories. I am sad we no longer have a place to host 206 people for a “backyard BBQ.” I am sad because for the first time in my life I will have to attend a public pool on the weekends (yep, I know, you cannot believe I just said that). But mostly I am sad to no longer have our little oasis right here in Alexandria, where the hustle and bustle of life gets put on hold and you can escape for just a little.
But another part of me is happy. I am happy that my parents who spent the last 35 and a half years raising kids are finally doing something for themselves. I am happy for new beginnings, and I am incredibly happy I got to spend the last 20 years enjoying such an amazing home.
The Patterson kids, on move-in day.
I have not met the new buyers. Ken and Phyllis say they are lovely, but I honestly do not want to. I want to remember this house as it was, with Ken and Phyllis and my three siblings all at home laughing, together.If you need me on July 8th, I'll be crying on the dock...