downsizing Archives - CONSIDER THIS Radio Show with Annette Petrick

Backstory

We wanted to downsize, but intended to continue pursuing interests, hobbies and time with old and new friends and loved ones. So we wanted a home with personal office spaces, guest accommodations and community spirit. One with trees and gardens and neighbors who care. We expected a long and tiring search. But the universe had other plans.

New Home

We had lived in the big house at the foot of the mountain for the last ten years. They had been wonderful years, filled with parties and antique purchases and fun. A dozen cars could park in our circular driveway. The six acres were filled with trees and shrubs and plants. The previous owner had been a master gardener and we were enjoying the fruits of his labors.

But time marches on and we could see that our future preferred a home that made less demands.

The big question was whether there was a market to sell this 5,000 square foot house and all the outbuildings. Seemed that many others were downsizing, just as we were planning to do.

Then an amazing thing happened. We received an offer to buy the house. Just like that! The buyer’s situation had changed and she desired and could afford our estate-size property.

We accepted the offer and turned to the Internet to find new lodging. First house I found online was so appealing. We loved the quiet, 24 home community, postage size lot, charming gardens, wonderful decorating extras. Little more than half the size of the big house. We made an offer on the spot. Four days later, both deals were finalized.

How could such game-changing events take place so quickly and so easily? Sometimes the universe opens remarkable opportunities. It’s our job to be wise enough to recognize them and accept them.

P.S. Year three in our bungalow and it’s still just right for us. Recently a Starbucks Café opened up, just down the street. All’s right with the world.

[Show #663]

Backstory

Just how to start downsizing. That was the question. Most families realize that at one time or another, they’re going to need smaller space that will only accommodate less “stuff.” That time finally arrived for us and here’s how we went about it.

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The Art of Downsizing – #608

I gave away seven gaily painted nutcrackers and ten wooden toys. They were part of our Christmas decorations, as the children were growing up, and long after. I took them to the family Christmas party and invited each grandchild to choose some. The Christmas angels will be shared next year. It’s the start of our household downsizing phase. A very small start, but definitely a beginning.

What’s next? Bill’s ancient electronics are definitely on the table. For decades, they were treasures. In the age of computerized electronics, they are archaic. Then we’ll go on to the household items of which we have too many.

Friends warned that downsizing would not be easy. I envisioned delighting locals with a yard sale where they could find great stuff for pennies on the dollar. Then we considered how much work that is. Maybe it’s time to call in Junk Monster instead. You pay him to take it all away.

I have heard it said about material things – First you wish you had them, then you own them, then they become a burden. That’s where we are.

When Bill and I combined our households, five truckloads of furniture, books, domestics and glassware went to the church thrift shop. I hope they have room for more stuff, because I feel it going their way, as we shrink our belongings and organize our life for a simpler time.

P.S.

I am pleased to say that we resisted the temptation to rent storage lockers as a final resting place for our stuff. We have seen friends pay heavy money over time to secure belongings eventually tossed or sold at auction. Even worse, to will stuff to heirs who move it to their own stowage in the absurd cycle of life-long holding.

[Show #608]