Just wanted to lift the sadness a little.
We were the new family, 7 years ago. We bought our house off an elderly couple who were both going into a care home. Their son was very sad about letting it go. Through speaking to neighbours, it's clear they were a much loved and respected family. They kept a beautiful garden, which we have tried to carry on and add to each Spring.
We inherited some of their furniture as we had none of our own at first. Down the back of the old sofa, we found a small card with a 'Recipe for a happy home' poem on it. On the back it said 'To Eva and Ted, may this house be filled with happiness and laughter forever'.
Well- it has been. We love the house, and since dd came along, it is filled with laughter every day.
I know their son still lives locally. I hope he drives past occasionally and is pleased by how we're looking after it.