Have you ever wondered about the mysterious holes you often see in the brick walls of front porches? These holes may seem insignificant at first glance, but they actually serve various purposes rooted in architectural history. Let’s uncover the secrets behind these intriguing features!
A Solution for Drainage Issues
One of the primary purposes of these holes is to address drainage issues. During heavy rain, water can accumulate on front porches, leading to potential damage and erosion. The holes provide pathways for rainwater to escape, ensuring that it doesn’t accumulate and cause any harm. It’s fascinating to think that such a small detail can play such a significant role in protecting our homes!
An Evolution from Mail Slots to Modern Mailboxes
In the past, before modern mailboxes became prevalent, these holes also served as mail slots for direct delivery into homes. It was a convenient way for mail to be delivered without the need for an external mailbox. So next time you see one of these holes on a front porch, imagine the letters that were once delivered through them, carrying stories and correspondence from days gone by.
Ventilation and Moisture Control
Another important function of these holes is ventilation. After a heavy rain, front porches can become damp and moist. The holes allow air to circulate, aiding in the drying process and preventing moisture-related problems. So not only do they serve a functional purpose, but they also help maintain a comfortable and dry environment.
Connecting the Past and Present
Beyond their functionality, these holes contribute to the aesthetic appeal of front porches. They create captivating light and shadow effects that add character and charm to our homes. Each hole tells a story, reflecting the changing needs of households over time. They are a tangible reminder of the past and a bridge that connects us to the architectural evolution that has taken place throughout the years.
In conclusion, these mysterious holes in front porch walls may seem insignificant, but they are much more than meets the eye. They embody architectural ingenuity and serve multiple purposes, from drainage and mail delivery to ventilation and aesthetic appeal. Next time you pass by a front porch with these holes, take a moment to appreciate the hidden stories and functions behind them. It’s a reminder of how even the smallest details can have a significant impact.
As I was about to drive my wife in labor to the hospital, I received a call saying my mother was passing away
Just as my wife’s water broke, I got a call from my mother’s nurse, and she told me my mom was dying. I was torn and forced to make a difficult decision.
The day Debra found out she was pregnant was one of those days that I will cherish for the rest of my life. We had cried together, unable to believe that we were going to have a baby home soon, and I promised Debra I’d be an amazing dad.
Debra and I had waited to become parents for a long time. We were one of those miracle couples who conceived after going through tons of failed fertility treatments and doctors telling us there was no chance.
“We’ll be the best parents to him, darling,” I told Debra one night. “I can’t wait to hold our baby in my arms.”
“I know, honey,” she’d said, smiling. I gently kissed her baby bump and promised Debra I’d always be by her side.
Debra had always been very anxious about the pregnancy due to the complications, and I had told her I would be there for her, so there was no need to worry.
Little did I know fate would plunge me into a situation where I’d have to choose between her and my mom while was in labor…
I still get chills when I recall that day. It started as a beautiful day. The sun was shining brightly, and nothing seemed wrong with the outside world. I was preparing breakfast in the kitchen because Debra wasn’t feeling well that morning.
I quickly assembled a breakfast plate for her, and I went to call her for breakfast. As I entered our bedroom, I saw she was leaning against the wall with one hand, clutching her baby bump and breathing heavily.
“Honey, are you okay?” I dashed to her, worried. “Should I call the doctor?”
“Gordon…my water…it…it broke,” she whispered heavily, and that’s when I noticed the floor beneath her. It was wet. “Take me to the hospital, Gordon…Please!” she cried.
“Jesus!” I panicked. “I’ll get the car started. Just hang on a sec, honey.”
I ran to our car, grabbing the keys from the bowl on the living room shelf. I opened the car door, then rushed back inside to help Debra.
“Don’t worry, honey. We’ll reach the hospital in no time. Okay, we’ve got this.” I was comforting her as her labor pains began. I was terrified and nervous. I was praying everything would be fine.
After we made it to the car and Debra got inside, I locked her door and rushed to take my seat. Then my phone rang. It was my mom’s nurse, Marla, calling me. My mother had been diagnosed with a progressive cardiac condition, and due to her illness, she was confined to bed rest.
Worried, I answered the phone, and Marla’s voice on the other end of the line broke me from inside.
“Gordon,” she said in a weak voice. “Your mom… She had a heart attack, so I took her to the hospital. The doctors say there is little hope she’ll make it… Your mother is dying. I think you should be here as soon as you can.”
“Jesus, Jesus!” I exhaled a sigh. Why was everything happening at the same time? I was ripped to shreds and didn’t know what to do. On the one hand, there was Debra, who was in labor, and on the other, there was my mother.
I went inside the car, tears in my eyes, and told Debra everything. I couldn’t hide it from her, anyway. She saw my face and asked me what was wrong. And I blurted everything out.
“Mom is dying, honey. She had a heart attack, and Marla’s asking me to be there as soon as possible. I am so nervous. I – I don’t know what to do….”
“Honey,” Debra said. “Call a taxi. I’ll go by myself…”
“What?” I was taken aback. “No, we can’t do that!”. She was drenched in sweat and moaning in pain. “Look at you. It’s just not….”
“We don’t have time, honey…Ahh…call the taxi now, Gordon. Your mom needs you. You are a son first, then a husband. I will manage. Your mom…she…” Her pain was becoming worse.
“I’m calling the taxi. Oh, God!”
Thankfully, I got a taxi soon, and I instructed the driver to take Debra to the hospital safely. My hands shook as I drove to my mother’s hospital, and my tears wouldn’t stop. My heart was racing, wondering about Debra’s condition and if our baby would be alright.
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