Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Nothing is Constant... Except Change

My previous post was all about moving to the mainland... all set... offer received and accepted... done deal.

Ha... It was not to be. What looked like the absolutely perfect house, one where I almost skipped the step of having an inspection, had a surprising nightmare underneath it... a pond of standing, stagnate water, three inches deep, in the crawl space. A few hours of internet research convinced me to run (not walk) away from this house. The water was indicative of high water table, a problem that can be addressed with bandaids, but not cured... a problem that would eventually result in mold, mildew, rot, insects and rodents.

So the deal was off.

What to do next? Keep looking both on the island and the mainland?

Sometimes, it takes making a decision to realize what I really want. Ever had that happen? Yep, I had been convinced that the mainland move was the right thing. But when the house deal watered out, I felt relief, major relief actually. Examining the feeling made it clear that I really did not want to leave my friends and the security I feel here on the island. Even though there were pros for the mainland, it now seemed I felt more inclined to stay where I am.

Funny how the see-saw of making an offer here and then one on the mainland finally showed me where my heart wants to be.

Meanwhile, the owner of the house I'd offered on previously, contacted my agent saying she'd be willing to knock 10G off the selling price if I wanted to re-offer. She thought that amount would cover the necessary repairs mentioned in the inspection report.

I took another look at the house and decided to go for it. Now, I own it. Done deal. I am staying on the island, moving over the next couple of weeks to a modular home in what seems like an amazingly friendly modular home park, located 3 miles out of town. Here are a couple of pictures.

My new home!
This huge, evergreen tree (don't know specific type yet) is one of my favorite things about this home. I have neighbors only on one side (and she happens to be a quilting friend!). Looking across the street from the dining room and living room, there is a wonderful view over open, pastoral land to salt water and the Olympic Mountains.


 

The large living room, as shown in this picture, was carpeted, and painted a rather dull brown. I've already replaced the carpet with wood flooring, painted the room a very pale rose, and installed ceiling lighting. This room will be my studio... my art, bead, and stitching haven!!!


The former dining room will be my cozy little living room; and what was the breakfast nook will be quite adequate as a dining room. Everything is currently getting a make-over... paint and new flooring! I couldn't live in a home with white carpets throughout... just not me.


The kitchen is roomy and light, thanks to the skylight. I've never had a dishwasher, and have always struggled with cramped, no-counter-space kitchens. This spacious kitchen is a huge change for the better. Whoo-hoo! It too is receiving a flooring make-over.

From kitchen to food... the stress (of all the decisions, the changing plans, and the divorce) is definitely taking a heavy toll on my serenity these days. I am grateful beyond words for OA meetings and friends. Yes, I've probably gained a few pounds... snacks here and there and larger meals... but the good news is, I have not reverted to binging. This is actually better that good news... it's a miracle!

I look forward to being moved and settled... to a bit more serenity... to pursuing my art again. It is in sight!

16 comments:

  1. Before I read the post, I looked at your new digs, and the word that the image evoked was: peaceful.

    Then I read of your one neighbor-friend; the nice view; the wonderful make-over inside; even the price reduction... and am positive it will be a peaceful and creative new Home for you. So happy that it all worked out the best for you!

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    1. Thanks, Loretta! It is a peaceful place on a peaceful island... I'm looking forward to greater serenity there.

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  2. What a lot of backs and forths you've had with this! I'm happy you're settled on a place and are making it your own before you move in. Congratulations!

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    1. Yep, back and forths... but the outcome is good! Thanks for your support.

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  3. I read a post that mentioned you stayed on the island. I felt relief for you. I am glad you are staying near your friends and support system. The house is verrrry nice. Funny how things work out. And I predict that THIS year when the snow is blowing at the windows you won't feel one bit disconnected. Bet ya!
    xx, Carol

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    1. No bets, Carol... You're right about everything! ;>)

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  4. Too cool, Robin! It's so light and you can see the views out some of the windows. Can't wait to see it - hope we'll get a drive-by look at least!

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  5. Beautiful home. Beautiful and serene. Oh and ive moved too. New blog home

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    1. Thanks, Jules... will check out your new blog. xo

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  6. Congratulations on your new, new home which looks absolutely delightful. It might have been nice living next to the wetlands but not so nice living on top of them :-)

    That big ol' tree looks like a guardian. I don't know if the universe can really send vibes all the way across the pond but I get a much better vibe from this house.

    Welome to your new and very well done on not binging. I'm very pleased for you on both counts.

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    1. My guardian tree makes me happy every time I go there. Am moving my bedroom today (3/33/13); first night there is tonight!

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  7. simply love it and looking forward to what you'll do to it to make it yours.

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    1. Making it mine is the good part! It will take a while to settle in, find places for everything, get curtains made, etc... but it's all good. Thanks, Dees xoxo

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