Our house stands proudly, having survived another winter. It awaits the coming of warmer weather, anticipates sunshine on its decks and, most importantly, the sounds and sights of children. It relishes bikes and kayaks being moved from the garage to be rinsed off, ready to take to the bay.

This two-story yellow house has been loved for 45-plus years. It’s been painted, then vinyl-sided. It’s had a new roof, and windows and sliders have been replaced over the years.