bjb,
I have finished analyzing the first dream and below is what I see in it. I'll finish teh second dream either later today or in the morning and put the two together and see what comes from them. I am assuming you are female. Gender can make a difference when analyzing a dream since a male or men in a woman's dream can mean something than if in a man's dream.

First dream
I believe your dreams are addressing animus aspects. At least in a general way since masculine influences {or lack of them} can make a difference is your masculine qualities in later life. Either way this masculine aspect seems to be missing in your life. This aspect, or person, provided something positive in your early life but is now missing. Because it/he is missing you have to avoid of the feeling of being robbed of valuable aspects, probably animus qualities that come from positive male relationships. At one time he came to your rescue but those feelings/experiences have faded. This seems to be the focus of the first dream.

To get a better understanding of my analysis and how dreams function read my page A Simple Guide to Dreams.

Note: I do request a response to my analysis. My services are free and a response is the least that can be given. A contribution of any amount to my Kitty Fund would be appreciated but not required.

Jerry

Age & Gender & Location {Required}: 65

How Did You Find the Dream Forum? Yes

bjb,
After analyzing the second dream and putting the two together I am still sensing someone in your past, a male, who provided what you saw as providing comfort, nurturing and security. The dream images/actions point to either repression or having forgotten about these memories/experiences. You are now disconnected from this person now and probably have been for a long while, even from early childhood. Could it be your father? Is he still a part of your life and if not when did that relationships end?

Here is what i get when interpreting the images/actions from the second dream.

-in my house-within your unconscious/your true self/emotions
-rearrange furniture-secret door would open up-making changes reveals inner aspects that need to be acknowledged
-family in kitchen eating-receiving emotional nourishment/security/harmony
-talking to brother-communication with close masculine aspects
-something grabbed me/threw across room-emotional energies that need closer attention
-brother freaking out-distorted masculine aspects
-felt like a ghost-aspects that are disconnected/repressed

Note: I do request a response to my analysis. My services are free and a response is the least that can be given. A contribution of any amount to my Kitty Fund would be appreciated but not required.

Jerry

Age & Gender & Location {Required}: 65

How Did You Find the Dream Forum? Yes