Vacation house becomes a home with family memories

My husband's family owns property in Northern California, where, a few times a year, about 18 of us descend on our tiny house in the mountains. In only 900 square feet, there is a kitchen, one bath, a small living room, dining room and three bedrooms. Some of us sleep in the house, while the rest of us pitch tents in the yard. We love the property because it is remote, peaceful and beautiful. There is a large creek on the property where kids and dogs swim, and 300 acres to hike and explore.

We are very fortunate to have a place where we can break away from the stress of our daily lives. We consider ourselves even more fortunate, because this year we have plans to rebuild our little house. Although it has served us well for many years, it has become too small for our growing extended family, and is also in need of some major repairs. If all goes well, this time next year we will be enjoying a comfortable new home.

Vacation homes are very special. They are places to relax and regroup. Some vacation homes are beautifully appointed and designed, but others, as with our little house, are resting places for mismatched, hand-me-down furnishings. Surprisingly, perhaps, there is something familiar and appealing about this. Every time we go, we tell the same jokes about the old recliner that lists to one side and the slow-to-brew coffee maker. I don't know what we'd do if everything were in perfect condition!

For enjoyment and comfort in a vacation home, have plenty of magazines, books and board games available. We have all agreed to ban television from the house, which leaves plenty of time for playing outdoors, reading, and napping. We brought a telescope for star gazing on clear nights. When we go, we stock up on our favorite treats and eat like kings. The kids love the campfires and marshmallow roasts.

We decorated the house with family photo collages, nature photographs taken by my brother-in-law, and there are even a couple of drawings my children made when they were small. The house is full of memories.

The new house will have traces of the old. There is talk of reusing the knotty pine paneling from the bedroom and some of the distressed wood exterior siding. Although it will be larger-- four bedrooms for the adults, two baths, and a sleeping loft for all the kids--it still will not be anything fancy. We want a comfortable house that fits our lifestyle, not a showplace. The floors will be a practical laminate to withstand the heavy traffic of hiking boots, dogs, and kids. Instead of separate living and dining rooms, we will have a big great room with plenty of space for the whole family to hang out together.

This article first appeared in Alameda Newspaper Group papers on March 4, 2006.

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All articles copyright 2003-2008 Anna Jacoby.