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What woud you do if you lost your home? Comments Welcomed

From the lens From Middle Class to Poverty to Homeless.

  • JaguarJulie Apr 9, 2012 @ 5:59 pm | delete
    OMG, this is a truly heartbreaking story Kathy! I am so sorry you had to endure this.
  • Pete Apr 5, 2012 @ 10:14 pm | delete
    Good question. I'm dying i feel I decay alittle everyday. I feel I might be a bit more worse off. I have disability I burned up all my credit raising my 3kids Im a single Dad and kept hope that one job would pan out. Though it did not. I tried to get anything to bring in some income. Just kept getting turned away. Its been so hard keeping the spirits up. Putting up a strong front for the kids. I know thier hearts are hurting. we all sort of grew up together. Seeing them through all their growing pains. adolescence. Watching them get through that confusion and still continue to thrive. After a divorce they were wayward for a time. This home became their symbyl of stability. For me its freightening. If I had income I could do with about a little camper and find a place to set stakes in the west somewhere. but I feel my lose of spending the rest of my days in our home with them able to come home with their families holidays and all the special events will not happen now. if i am lucky i'll end up in slumb. and miserable. all my life i could

    pull something up. but now my bag is empty. the equity I had planned is gone. I do enjoy working with only cash now. In some respects. No credit oh one more thing. Is if the bank would have worked with us in the early stages this could have been settled. but they should not interest and it continued to get worse as time went on. Now they have bigger problem. doesn't make sense.
  • Camille Feb 21, 2012 @ 10:30 am | delete
    We followed the rules...rules spoken and unspoken...and then the game was changed. We bought the house to raise our sons in, to house the black labrador these little boys brought home, to hold countless family celebrations - birthdays, wedding anniversaries (we are at #41!!!), Thanksgivings, summer BBQ's, Christmases, weddings, graduations...in this house life was lived in all its joys and pains. We slowly but surely retiled, reroofed, painted and repainted, planted and replanted...oh, about the planting. We had 1/2 acre of year round gardening - impatience flowers that grew to be huge multicolored mounds of beauty...hundreds of bromeliads that bloomed in June with exotic flowers of pinks and oranges....blue plumpagos edged with yellow lantana that livened up the entire perimeter of our house for months on end. This was not a house, it was 'our' home.
    And then it began - our house value plummeted by more than hundreds of thousands of dollars in less than 2 years; a 20 year job, 20 years of loyaty, committment, and hard work ended without even an advance notice (not just for us, but for thousands in this company who held the same job). And, of course, there was the heart attack. We gave the house back to the bank - no foreclosure, no short sale...we were such good customers(credit wise and paying on time for 20 years) - they took the keys and we moved away. It is now 2 years since those 2 years of watching, experiencing, and trying to understand what was happening.

    The rules we grew up by and in were no longer the same - and we were left without words, but certainly not without tears.

    What did we do when we lost our home...we held garage sales and watched as 41 years of platters, baskets, tea pots, holiday decorations, sporting equipments and oh, so much more of what decorated our lives, was carried to cars by strangers who paid us $2.00 for what was priceless memories to us. We sold our bedroom set...38 years old and like new. Endless tears and a huge sense of loss when this went. The dining room set was sold - our table where at hundreds of birthday candles had been blown out; where Christmas advent candles were lit; where thousands of platters of food were positioned and where our families and friends sat and lived life with us.

    Everything else went into storage -38 years of our life in a 10'x15' space. I could not look at it without breaking down. Is this what we had come to? What had we done wrong?

    We moved 1200 miles away; moved into an apartment in the home of extended family; and for 18 months we did nothing but work. We did not move our remaining 'stuff' to the new apartment. The word to describe what I/we felt could be "numb"...we plastered smiles on our faces; lived on some else's futon; held no birthday parties; and waited. Waited for some inner awakening or maybe to wake up from this nightmare. And we waited even more. Each time we visited anyone who still was living in their home, the visited ended with rivers of tears shed in the car while we drove 'home'. We did not use the word 'home' ...not ever...when we referred to the apartment. "Our" home....lived in our hearts - every creeky door, cracked floor tile, the flowers, all of it and we couldn't let go.

    We have decided to stay in the apartment of extended family; we brought our remaining 'stuff' to it after more than 18 months of not living life. We existed - putting one foot in front of the other and smiling our way through life always saying the 'right' things, but no one knew the pain, the emptiness, the sense of failure(though in reality, we had done everything right), the fear, and the grief...Yes, grief!

    It is now 4 years since the downward spiral and we are just beginning to rise up the spiral. New curtains, new bed, new look, and now we know that the time of 'waiting' was a time of healing. We couldn't do anything but wash, eat, work, and not feel, except the grief. Now we are planning again; planting again, albeit only little pots of flowers; and recently celebrated again.

    Over the past 4 years we have witnessed many others going through very similar circumstances. Homes devalued to the point of ridiculousness; longstanding jobs ending on a moment's notice; health insurance costs risen to points so high that one week's salary is needed to pay the monthly premium; and the shrinkage of retirement accounts...accounts that took years (many years) to build up. Our 'nest eggs' - retirement accounts plummeting and house values plummeting - splattered on the floors of our lives and like the real things (eggs), very, very messy to clean up. I have begun to wonder if there is a master plan to methodically destroy the American middle class, but that is the topic of another web site and for another 'comment' posting!

    But for today...I am alive and well having survived the heart attack and now the grandchildren come over to sleep in their grandparents city apartment. Our new 'home' is taking shape and we are smiling a bit more - not the fake smiles - but smiling at our new curtains with the hanging beads, the shabby chic, city-like bedroom, and we are giving thanks a little more - for being alive and happily married still after more than 40 years. Our new dog - a huge, lethargic basset hound - is a perfect dog for an apartment!

    And I/we want to thank you all for taking the time to read our story..it is no worse than anyone's elses; it could be a lot worse had the heart attack taken my life; and we are once again beginning to cook all that food that needs placing on big platters - platters that are beginning to be filled with a greater sense of peace, contentment, an understanding of the Serenity prayer and decorated with hope.
  • MaryQuinlin Feb 5, 2012 @ 6:28 pm | delete
    I was in tears reading this. My heart hurts for you and I'm saddened that you and so many people are going through this. An unfortunate turn in the road could cause any one of us to be in the same situation, or worse. I'm glad to hear you aren't homeless! Prayers, hugs, and all best wishes for your new journey!!!
  • collettehrock Jan 20, 2012 @ 7:20 am | delete
    I am sorry that you have had to go through this experience and I read the comments and it appears to be happening to others as well, there is nothing you can say really, this is just dreadful, the only thing that I can say Kathy and to everybody else is that you are worth more than a house.
  • Jane Dec 27, 2011 @ 7:56 pm | delete
    I'm losing my dream home. We only owe 40 % of the appraised value! So, do u think the bank wants to help? No way! Geothermal heat and air, beautiful hand cut stone, my husband and I poured ourselves and all our money into this place before the financial crisis! I trust what God is doing. . .it breaks my heart, but I believe that ultimately ALL things are going to work for "good" in our lives. . .Still, I am human. I have to constantly pray for peace and strength from my Lord. . .mostly strength, because I am tired. I remind myself that my sorrows are very small compared with how others are hurting, that I have no right to complain, I have had it easy compared with 99 per cent of the world, and that I know the "end of the story": Jesus is Lord! God has had mercy on my eternal soul! Thank you for sharing your story. . .I REALLY need to know that other people have "been there". . .
  • KathyMcGraw Dec 28, 2011 @ 12:04 pm | delete
    Jane,
    I read your comment and my mind went to my own yard. It wasn't fancy, as I am not a fancy person, but it was very comfortable and had a beautiful walled flower garden, with a little bench where I used to love to sit. I could hear your pain...I know that pain, and I now know that it will ease with time.
    Praying for strength...oh I know that one. The mental strength it takes to deal with this, and trying to keep your head up is tough. You are right that our problems can feel small compared to others, but to us they are huge. And it is us that take these to bed each night, and wake up to them the next day. For me, I couldn't even deal with the emotions any more, I just had to do the work involved with moving. And even today I am still trying to make somewhere else "my home" with 90% of what I took still packed, but I'm getting there :)

    Best to you...and just keep in mind you aren't alone. If you need to come back here where it's safe...no one knows you, and share your emotions, that's fine too :)
  • tammi pope Nov 30, 2011 @ 12:54 pm | delete
    I went looking for someone who is going through what I am with losing my home. Thanks, your story was comforting, but ripped open the last thread holding my tears. I won't see my grandkids either running through my door, and I wonder what kind of landlord will take my 5 pets(they probably won't) my kids won't finish growing up in the home we loved and laughed and cried and fought in the last 8 years. My heart is broken. I love my house. It was my dream home. The worst part is we always tried to pay,but when our pay reduced by 60% because of the economy,the bank wouldn't work with us. Our interest rate is 14%!we asked if they could just lower it to 6 so we could stay but they won't. Now we've racked up 40,000.00 in interest and fees. The only way out is bankruptcy (hopefully) . What's really ironic is I'm a foreclosure paralegal so I get so see first hand how bad the banks really are. Anyway, thanks for reading. It helps to write about it. I wish you well. Tammi
  • KathyMcGraw Dec 28, 2011 @ 11:56 am | delete
    Tammy...I am so sorry I didn't reply earlier. Sometimes it's a lot of effort to come back to this and be reminded of all the pain, and loss. You said you are a foreclosure paralegal, so yes, you know how bad the banks are. With all the subsidies they got you would have thought they would actually help people, but no that's not the case. I was only behind about $5,000. A small amount when you think about it, but a huge amount when your income dries up.
    The one good thing about bankruptcy is it stops the foreclosure process...or puts it on hold, not sure which. And if there is any justice....you can work something out to keep your home. Whatever happens my heart is with you.
  • dezarey Nov 21, 2011 @ 8:45 pm | delete
    Losing my home after 26 years,raised my daughter on my own, was sick and now disabled,I can not put into words the emotions, there is pain in the tears and overwhelming sadness in my heart. Everything I worked for and no place to go. Where will I find the security to sleep at night? They got paid every month for years and now they want my equity too! American General thanks for nothing!
  • KathyMcGraw Dec 28, 2011 @ 11:49 am | delete
    I hope you found a place and that you have started healing. I struggled tremendously to get over the loss and find a place. Today is brighter though, tough but brighter.
  • Frischy Sep 6, 2011 @ 12:54 pm | delete
    I am so sorry for your loss, and grateful to you for sharing your story. I have worked so hard to keep this house, and I don't know if it was the right thing to do. I always paid my mortgage first and did without other things. Some of those other things were important too, and now it is too late to go back and make changes. Yes, we have had the stability of being able to stay in our home (until now... I have learned nothing is certain), but it came at a price. Maybe I should have cut my losses and walked away years ago. Not sure I made the right decision, although it seemed best at the time. Sometimes there can be a tremendous benefit in having the flexibility of renting. I hope your newfound freedom brings you many benefits.
  • bolillie Jun 19, 2011 @ 4:12 am | delete
    Thank you for sharing this transparent story that so many people can relate to. I have a friend facing the foreclosure of her dream home that they have paid on faithfully for 18 years until her husband lost his job a couple of years ago. The bank, the one they made all those faithful payments to, is doing nothing to help. They had to contact elected officials to get anywhere and the outcome is still up in the air. So sad for you, for them, and for so many others.
  • A-Redneck May 11, 2011 @ 6:46 pm | delete
    I thought that I had lost everything the day that I woke up to discover that I was suddenly and without reason disabled. I was struck down by a very rare illness which no one knew anything about back then. I thought that I had lost it all back then when I lost my health.

    I was to learn later that love is a much more precious possession than even good health. Those that we love are the hardest thing in the world to lose. These people that we care about are all that matters. Everything else is just stuff.
  • Helenee Apr 22, 2011 @ 8:26 am | delete
    Altough I live in a home that is supposedly my own, I don't feel yet I am "at home." I mean, I have never come to view a house as more than a temporary residence. Perhaps I'll find my home someday. Right now, I'm just living here until my daughter comes of age and is in a position to take over. At least, she won't have to deal with moving around.. I hope. Sooo - I guess I'll tell you in a few years.
  • Your Former Neighbor Apr 8, 2011 @ 3:23 pm | delete
    I am homeless. After living in the same house for 27 yrs all it takes is one good beating and arrest and *poof* you've gotten black eyes, no spouse, and not enough income to support yourself. Now, I'm in a shelter with a bunch of SSI people who go off very easily. I'm applying for mad for a self supporting job, I'm NOT trying to supplement my retirement or am living at home with mom and dad.
  • vallain Mar 24, 2011 @ 8:13 pm | delete
    I'm trying to imagine how I would feel in this situation. Everyone brings their own background and feelings to such a situation. So hard....
    You've done a service to others by expressing your thoughts here. Someone in the same situation might find it comforting that they aren't the only one having this happen. Best of luck to you.
  • KathyMcGraw Mar 24, 2011 @ 8:32 pm | delete
    Thank you...and it is very hard to imagine what it would feel like, as the emotions seem to go all over the place. Currently someone I know sent me a Twitter DM (they read this previously) after just loosing their home. So many of us are embarrassed at the least as no one wants to admit they had problems.
  • ZazzleEnchante Nov 29, 2010 @ 5:19 pm | delete
    A touching, moving, enlightening lens. Blessed by a SquidAngel.
  • KathyMcGraw Nov 29, 2010 @ 5:38 pm | delete
    Thank you ZazzleEnchante....
  • ohcaroline Nov 12, 2010 @ 9:44 am | delete
    I'd do the same thing you did...put my emotions aside and get on with getting on. Then at a better time...deal with those emotions and get healing...there's a better day ahead. I'll be praying for you, Kathy!
  • KathyMcGraw Nov 29, 2010 @ 5:39 pm | delete
    Caroline...trying to make new memories and dealing with all the less than ideal parts of my new home. One day at a time...that is how I am doing it ;)
  • VickiSims Oct 24, 2010 @ 1:00 am | delete
    It would be devastating to lose my home - not so much because it is a possession, but for the loss of the sense of security that comes from knowing I have a roof over my head. I admire your courage for sharing such a personal story. So sorry this happened to you. Your spirit and attitude despite your loss is an inspiration.
  • Tipi Jul 29, 2010 @ 11:17 am | delete
    Its a hard thing to go through with 3 young children, and a husband who abandoned his family without any support. But, things work out, they always do. We just have to believe for something better. It might not be the house with a white picket fence, but home is where the heart is. Just gotta remember to take our hearts with us when we leave.
    love x
  • jake k Nov 6, 2010 @ 7:50 pm | delete
    what a lovely sentiment,it is so true,i am going tru this and i feel better in myself just to hear that ,home is indeed where the heart is and you know what?,i think i just about forgotten that....
  • KathyMcGraw Nov 29, 2010 @ 5:37 pm | delete
    Jake I am thinking of you, and hoping that the remembered thought gets you through your tough times as well :)
  • brokersaunders Jul 2, 2010 @ 4:46 pm | delete
    Kathy I have/am in the same boat you were but kind of for different reasons. Your strength gives me strength. Thank you
  • paperfacets Jun 19, 2010 @ 2:53 am | delete
    I would be devastated if I should lose my home. I should not feel so secure, because circumstances sometimes are not in your own control. A shock like the one you went through is just not right. After reading this I remember how you told me that you are glad that your children are fine and doing well. A hope for better days.
  • KathyMcGraw Jun 19, 2010 @ 9:40 am | delete
    Thank you Sherrie...I don't think any of us are prepared for this..and hopefully you will never have to experience it.
  • Charlotte Jun 17, 2010 @ 7:10 pm | delete
    I did lose my home and my business, over $70,000 in equity. That was in 2007 and I'm still struggling to eat. I am living in a 16 x 24 ft. cabin with no running water, no electricity, and a leaky wood stove. I'm 45 and using Pell grants to go back to school and trying to broaden my ability to be employed as I had been self-employed 17 years. For my first class I am writing a report on Poverty in the American Middle-class. Anyway you look at it, it's still hurtful. At first a numb feeling and then reality sets in.
  • KathyMcGraw Jun 17, 2010 @ 7:58 pm | delete
    Charlotte...I hope the classes you are taking will help you find a job where you can start over. Life just doesn't seem fair many times, but we have to keep making the best of it, and moving forward...it's really the only way to go.
  • KimGiancaterino Jun 9, 2010 @ 3:02 pm | delete
    I just found out about this lens last night. I had no idea you were going through this. My sister and I just got a delinquent tax notice for a home we bought in 2008. We never received the original notice, but these people are insensitive bureaucratic automatons. There is no discussion, no recourse. I'm sorry you were treated so badly.
  • KathyMcGraw Jun 9, 2010 @ 3:16 pm | delete
    Thanks Kim....and I sure hope you and your sister can correct the tax delinquency, way too many people are losing homes for one reason or another.
  • KimGiancaterino Jun 10, 2010 @ 1:28 am | delete
    Thanks, Kathy. Yes, I paid it. No other choice. The county assessors are just as unfeeling and incompetent as the DMV.
  • boutiqueshops May 5, 2010 @ 9:02 am | delete
    What a wonderful heartfelt piece! Kathy, my heart hurts to know that you were going through this. Please know that I love you and support you always. Congratulations on your achievements and on this incredible lens!
  • KathyMcGraw Jun 9, 2010 @ 3:17 pm | delete
    Sylvia-you are a doll....thanks :)
  • bethd821 Mar 12, 2010 @ 6:16 pm | delete
    I'm so glad you're feeling better and starting over. I wish you well my friend. You know you have all the support you need right here at Squidoo.
  • KathyMcGraw Mar 4, 2010 @ 8:16 pm | delete
    Thank you everyone!!!! It really feels good when I read your comments, and yes...it also feels good to be able to move on with my life. Everyone of you is special....and your compassion and/or empathy meant a lot :)
  • enslavedbyfaeries Mar 4, 2010 @ 7:07 pm | delete
    Sunshine sounds wonderful... -it's so gloomy here today. I'm so happy to hear that you have a place to call home and are getting settled in. I am inspired by your positive attitude after going through such and emotionally overwhelming ordeal. Wishing you the best!!
  • puzzlemaker Mar 3, 2010 @ 8:49 am | delete
    I can almost see you sitting there with sun shining through a window. And it comforts me to know you are OK. Thanks for sharing your story I KNOW it will bring comfort to others who are going through the same thing and feel all alone.
  • Mar 2, 2010 @ 8:57 am | delete
    I have never been able to even buy a house to start with. It used to frustrate me, but now I know it was for a reason...since I was not burdened, I was able to experience so much more of life and the world. So, yes, you are taking the right attitude in being grateful for what you have and can do. Thank you for sharing your story.
  • jptanabe Mar 2, 2010 @ 7:37 am | delete
    Kathy, you know you have so many friends and supporters here on Squidoo. Let me add my words of support. Your writing is wonderful. I hope I don't have to experience the pain you just went through, although we're living on faith here not a secure financial base! I'm so glad you have a place to live now. Your life will be good again, just like that phoenix rising up. You go girl!
  • GrowWear Mar 1, 2010 @ 11:00 pm | delete
    Good to hear you now have a new home in which to keep fighting the good fight, Kathy. Wishing you all the best.
  • Ramkitten Mar 1, 2010 @ 10:54 pm | delete
    I am literally sitting here, typing through tears. Yes, your story was moving (and written SO well), but what gets to me even more is now knowing that, despite all of this, you've given to me. Just ... wow. I had no idea. And I will be forever grateful. You are a very special person, Kathy, and I just know everything will work out for you. I won't forget your kindness.
  • ShirlW Feb 25, 2010 @ 10:29 am | delete
    Oh how I feel for you. My story is nowhere near as heartbreaking as yours, but when I moved to NC a few years ago, I put my home in FL on the market. The home I fought for during my divorce, then struggled to maintain for years as a single mom. Like you said "my" home. The market crashed and it didn't sell. We tried to keep up paying for two homes, but after a time it became too difficult so "my" home went into short sale. Finally it sold at a loss. It was very stressful and heartbreaking.

    My heart goes out to you and I wish you the best
  • Jewelsofawe Feb 24, 2010 @ 12:47 am | delete
    Well, I did lose mine in 2008, same way as you. My husband was a mortgage lender and in 2007 things got bad and then he had a heart attack, a month later after a 5 way bypass we had to pack up and move. I actually had to do all of the packing since all he could do was lay in bed and recover. But here we are two years later and we are ok. I hope you will be okay. It was sad and my heart goes out to you. Many blessings!
  • GypsyOwl Feb 23, 2010 @ 12:24 pm | delete
    (((Kathy))), Sending you courage and hope. I have had similar experiences. 1st home foreclosed (2004) and 2nd home burned up (2006) without insurance to rebuild. I can relate to the emotionless response and how it will get you through the tasks at hand. Once you are settled (and you will be soon) you can then fill a tub up half way from the tap and the other half up with tears. This is my experience. But, you will know everything works out, as, by that time, you will have a list of blessings to embrace.

    Your knowledge and experience may be just what is needed to make changes in the home loan industry. I'm certain when the time is right you will be given direction (from within) to guide you on implementing change.

    There is a scripture which says "All things work together for good" , I think it means when bad things happen the Universe will have something good (or often GREAT) to replace it with.. and once we let go of the old and follow the new... looking back we realize it took the bad to make the good possible, perhaps it was to experience something so we can better serve others who are going through the same thing.
  • greenspirit Feb 22, 2010 @ 2:33 pm | delete
    May I just add my love and support to you also. I am moved deeply, and all I can do is visualise that all is well and will blossom in unexpected and marvelous ways for you. I am fighting for my house at this very time so I do know some of how you feel.
  • thesachambers Feb 21, 2010 @ 2:26 pm | delete
    Kathy - we walked these emotions, trials and tribulations together - hand in hand - and know that we did all we could - and although we lost the fight we lost our homes - we can hold our head high - we did all we could to do the right thing. I know this hurts - and you had a lot more emotional ties to your home than I did - I had only been in my home 6 years - and had not had the opportunity to put grandkids hand prints in concrete - had not had the opportunity to build my yellow brick road - without your friendship through these times I would have been lost - when I thought I would loose my sanity you were always there - and even if we could only be a voice on the other end of the phone - I feel like I walked this road with a true friend. They say everything happens for a reason - and I do not know what our reason is - but I do know I am a better real estate agent because of this - I care more that my buyers do not push their limits on their loan - I care that my buyers buy what they can afford even if something goes terribly wrong. And for my sellers, I understand like I may have never understood. Take this lesson, let it make you stronger - and know that you have friends, clients and people that believe in you and respect you.
  • OhMe Feb 21, 2010 @ 2:00 pm | delete
    I sure have tears in my eyes, as well. I am so sorry that you lost your home and pray that things are looking up for you since you wrote this. Hang in there!
  • enslavedbyfaeries Feb 20, 2010 @ 9:59 am | delete
    Kathy, I literally have tears rolling down my cheeks thinking about how devastating this must be for you to endure. I am so sorry that you are going through such tough times right now. I can only imagine how frustrating this must be, but know that you have a lot a friends here to support you, so let us know if you need to talk or vent. Sending good wishes your way!
  • puzzlemaker Feb 18, 2010 @ 7:16 am | delete
    Kathy,
    I am so sorry to hear this. What really ticks me off is the run-around from banks, lawyers etc. The "you have to call so-and-so for that" repeat repeat. And "oh, we didn't have to notify you". They all lose sight of the fact that homeowners are people, not numbers.

    I'm going to believe that where ever you are moving to will lead to BETTER things for you. We lost our home many years ago. Even though the process of what happened was almost unbearable, it led us to where we are today - a better place. This will be the same for you, even though you will not see it now. Hang in there.

    You have your buddies on Squidoo if we can help in any way please let us know.
  • Mahogany Feb 17, 2010 @ 6:37 am | delete
    Wow, 100% agreement on the fact that banks aren't doing enough to help people. Well, they're not, and that's telling.

    This is truly a tragedy, and what's more tragic is the fact that there is big money in not helping people, not sending notices, not having one ounce of social responsibility.

    And the saddest part is that the bailout helped these institutions perpetuate this behavior. Where were the bailouts for hardworking Americans who needed it the most?

    Kathy, what happened to you is absolutely inexcusable, but the positive side is that your story 1) is an inspiration and 2) shines a much needed spotlight on these crimes.
  • vallain Feb 16, 2010 @ 10:44 pm | delete
    I hope things get better for you soon. So many people are affected by this.... so sad.
  • Kylyssa Feb 16, 2010 @ 10:16 pm | delete
    I'm so sorry it's come to this. Is this why the American taxpayers bailed out the banks? This is so wrong on so many levels.

    I can offer nothing but my sympathies.
  • aj2008 Feb 15, 2010 @ 5:56 am | delete
    Kathy, I had no idea that things were so bad for you. I too know the pain of losing a home, when my first husband stopped paying the mortgage that he was ordered to pay by the court to keep a rooof over his children's heads.

    To lose your home through external circumstances that you can do nothing about is the most awful thing and my thoughts are with you.
  • Laniann Feb 14, 2010 @ 7:39 pm | delete
    Kathy, I just don't know what to say. I don't see how the banks can do that. I wish this hadn't happen to you and that I could help you in some way. My heart is breaking for you. My prayers are with you.
  • Kangaroo_Jase Feb 13, 2010 @ 4:40 pm | delete
    Despair and the loss of a loved one, a long term job, or a house that's financially and emotionally invested in is a major event that may occur more than once in our lives. These dark clouds do disappear over time and the sun will shine through.
  • CleanerLife Feb 13, 2010 @ 1:32 pm | delete
    I'm so sad to hear about this! I really thought things were looking better! :(
  • luvmyludwig Feb 13, 2010 @ 8:41 am | delete
    I am so sorry you are going through this kathy, you are in my thoughts and prayers friend.
  • Photahsiamirabel Feb 13, 2010 @ 4:18 am | delete
    Dear Kathy, I am so horrified to see this. How could this be allowed to happen in a civilised country? One letter, then a foreclosure? I would like to think things might be different here, but people lose their homes every day when banks could help them stay. I am so sorry, my friend. Sending love and hugs from England.
  • emmalarkins Feb 12, 2010 @ 2:08 pm | delete
    Blessings and happy wishes! Just know that people are thinking of you.
  • GrowWear Feb 11, 2010 @ 10:33 pm | delete
    So sorry to hear this, Kathy. You are right; things will work out. That doesn't dull the pain of living it, though. You're in my prayers.
  • bethd821 Feb 11, 2010 @ 8:25 pm | delete
    Kathy, I'm sending you wishes for better things in the future. I hate hearing you are going through this. Banks are just heartless. I had a similar situation to yours with my motorhome. They just took it and sold it for 25% of what it was worth. Now I'm making payments on something I don't own anymore and never will.
  • rms Feb 11, 2010 @ 6:39 pm | delete
    Sending you best wishes for a brighter future. Stay safe!
  • KNicholls Feb 11, 2010 @ 3:45 pm | delete
    Kathy, I am absolutely speechless as I write this. What a story and I am so sorry you are going through this. From someone who became unemployed a couple of months ago, this hits home for me. I do believe that things happen in our lives for a reason, even when we can't see what it is. Know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
  • Sylvestermouse Feb 11, 2010 @ 10:00 am | delete
    Kathy, I read this last night and I simply did not know what to say. I am so extremely sorry that you have had all of this happen to you. I sincerely wish I knew how to help. Please let me know if there is anything I can do. My thoughts and prayers are definitely with you.
  • KathyMcGraw Feb 11, 2010 @ 9:46 am | delete
    I would like to thank each of you for your wonderful comments of encouragement and support. Normally I would thank you individually but my time is very short right now. Please know that each of you, each word of encouragement, is treasured. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart!
  • Pukeko Feb 11, 2010 @ 6:38 am | delete
    Kathy, I share a silent tear with you when I read this. I am so sorry. When one door closes, another opens, I only hope the new ones open for you soon. Thanks for sharing your story.
  • Waxing-Lyrical Feb 10, 2010 @ 9:30 pm | delete
    When I lived in England, I was in banking for more than 20 years. Back then the banks seemed to be more tolerant, but the image they have now created for themselves as faceless and ruthless is so telling from your experience.

    I am so sorry to hear that you have lost your home, and can only wish that things improve for you over the coming months.
  • bdkz Feb 10, 2010 @ 5:06 pm | delete
    I am so sorry Kathy. My thoughts are with you. This can happen to anyone, you are not alone. It is so sad that our country has come to this. With good people losing their houses because of the economy.
  • Stazjia Feb 10, 2010 @ 4:21 pm | delete
    Kathy, my dear, I am so very sorry it came to this. I know you've tried and you kept up such a good cheerful front all the time I've known you. Take with you the knowledge you did what you could, it's not your fault. It's big companies - banks and financial institutions - gambling with our lives and livelihoods that have done this to so many people around the world.

    You can be happy again. You can find somewhere to settle and live a happy life. Believe me, I know it's true. My thoughts are with you, Kathy.
  • 24websurf Feb 10, 2010 @ 3:47 pm | delete
    Even knowing this story from the beginning, my hearts again breaks for you, Little One. You have touched the lives of so many with your support and encouragement that I can only think someone as strong as you are will persevere and show the world what being a survivor truly means. Though there is little I can do at this point, know that you always have my friendship and a listening ear.
  • Heather426 Feb 10, 2010 @ 3:36 pm | delete
    So sorry, Kathy! It happened to us too, difference being that we had a smaller one we could move into and did. But you know what, I was twice homeless for a month, and got stronger and better from it even though at the time I thought it was the end of the world.
    You will too! Banks are heartless. I hope it gets better for you soon!
  • LeanneChesser Feb 10, 2010 @ 3:17 pm | delete
    Kathy, I'm really sorry to hear about what you're going through. Thanks for sharing your story. I really don't know what I'd do if I lost my home. I'm not even sure what to say to you except that my thoughts are with you and I wish you all the best.
  • DeborahLynne Feb 10, 2010 @ 2:51 pm | delete
    Kathy, sorry to hear of your struggles. Your determination to get through this will keep you going. Best wishes for the future.
  • arncyn Feb 10, 2010 @ 1:44 pm | delete
    I wouldn't know what to do Kathy, and I admire you for putting on a brave face and pushing forward despite the whirlwind of emotions you are going through. You are such a generous spirit, we completely had no idea this was going on since you were always online blessing lenses & providing guidance to new lensmasters. You are a true angel and I can only hope that things for you will get better from now on. I wish I could send you real-life blessing but for now i hope this angel blessing will do... hugs to you Kathy.
  • BrandyT Feb 10, 2010 @ 1:01 pm | delete
    You hear about foreclosures all the time these days but I have never really thought about it. Reading your lens made me cry wondering what my family would do, where would we go if this happened to us.
    I'm so sorry that this happened to you. Thank you for putting it in such great words where it makes it so real to us (the readers). I hope that things turn around fast for you.
  • Macs Feb 10, 2010 @ 12:53 pm | delete
    Kathy, I had no idea you were dealing with this. As someone who has also lost their home, you will get through this. It won't be the same, obviously, but you'll find a way to adapt.

    My thoughts are with you.
  • eclecticeducation Feb 10, 2010 @ 12:39 pm | delete
    Kathy, I am so sorry that you are going through this. I am glad you wrote about your story. I'm concerned that my brother may be going through this soon. I'm blessing this lens and I'm going to Twitter, Facebook and Stumble it. Others need to hear your story.
  • Wednesday_Elf Feb 10, 2010 @ 12:00 pm | delete
    Kathy, I'm so sorry things didn't work out for you and your home. You're very brave to put it all into words here. Perhaps that helps, and now may the path you are traveling next be the one that was meant to be. All my best, and drop a line anytime you need a 'shoulder'.
  • a_willow Feb 10, 2010 @ 11:20 am | delete
    Oh my dear, be strong. Home is where ever you are. You're a fighter and you'll overcome this feeling you have. This year will be your year. :)
  • WordCustard Feb 10, 2010 @ 11:03 am | delete
    This is a very moving read that gives this global recession a human face. I'm only sorry that this particular face had to be yours, Kathy. At least now others in a similar situation will know that they are not alone.

    May all work out well for you in the new path before you, and may it turn out as time passes to have been one that, however unwelcome and painful at first, brought new joys to you.

    As you say, the battle is behind you, and you are free to move forward. I am sure that you know how many of us wish you well with this.
  • LotusMalas Feb 10, 2010 @ 10:58 am | delete
    This is powerful! Thank you for sharing your experience
  • prosperity66 Feb 10, 2010 @ 9:16 am | delete
    I worked in banks for almost 15 years and while in the 80's they still had some remains of human face, after the 2000's they have become worse than vampires, interested only in profits for shareholders and "golden boys" and did nothing for customers any more. They even got rid of a huge part of their employees...
    When the 2008 crisis arrived, they were happy to have their customers pay for their faults.
    But they'll never get you a single red cent back and started over - doing their ugly business, thinking of them and their shareholders only, betting on the ups and downs of the Euro and the Dollar.
    Working for a bank just gives you the need to never work any more. Being a customer of any bank just gives you the nostalgia for the times when banks weren't necessary and you got to have your money at home, right on hand.
    I think they should have stricter and stronger rules, being taken over by the government as, finally without customers, bank would be nothing.
    I'm really sorry for you Kathy, I'm sad after having read this page and was miles away from thinking such thing would happen to a wonderful person like you!
    Blessed by a SquidAngel - I wish I could do more... get your home back to you for example.
    Dom.
  • kimmanleyort Feb 10, 2010 @ 9:10 am | delete
    Kathy, you are a beautiful writer and on this page you have shared your story, one in which many others are also going through. No, I cannot even imagine losing my home. As a real estate agent, you have probably seen it happen more than anyone. I hope and pray that 2010 is a better year for you and that this moment represents the beginning of new blessings to come. You are an angel with heart of gold and deserve only the best.

by

KathyMcGraw

Losing a home is a traumatic experience if you had tried to save it. The bank sold my home and I didn't even know it.
Down to earth person that has many... more »

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