It was not in my plans to buy a home in Holland again;
But then…

I learned “Never say I won’t or can’t”
Because not everything goes like planned.

When I needed help, my only sister was always there.
Now she had become dependent on my care.

She was diagnosed with a devastating disease
And, after having done all her life every thing with ease…

She become imprisoned in her own body
And for 20 years her life was very shoddy.

Her husband cared for her ’til 2001 when he became ill.
Then, everything abruptly came to a standstill.

It was devastating when they realized
That both had to be institutionalized.

Unable to facilitate disposing of their home,
In panic she reached me by phone.

I promised I would be there
To arrange for her care.

Her anxiety did soften,
Trusting I would be there often.

Buying their home seemed the right thing to do,
And during our multiple visits, arranged it to be remodeled like new.

We paid market price;
Then, by buying the next door forest, created a small paradise.

My daughters became partners in this property
That for years had been in my family.

They felt connected to this place
As they had often vacationed here since a young age.

We fenced and gated the property
And enjoyed “Zanderberg” a few times a year with extended family.

The proceeds provided for daily private duty care
To ease their despair.

And when we were there,
By taxi, my sister and husband would visit in their wheelchair.

My sister would sit quietly and look content
Where nearly 50 years of her life she had spent.

I too was content
And treasured the time with her in this home ’til their end.

These traveling years I did not foresee,
But I am glad I did for her what she would have done for me.

The quality time we had with extended family and old friends
Made up for our Dutch home expense.

My sister’s death, for me, was the beginning
Of a life without a sibling.

My responsibility had ended and Frans and I were ready to retire
And follow our desire…

Of traveling care free
Just him and me.