Nothing Constant But Change

 

I’m a big believer in change – as in growth. I have a firm commitment to resisting complacency, to constantly stay fresh, thoughtful, always open to something different.

My husband and I are in our mid-fifties. Most of the people we know our age are still working…some have had to begin new careers at this unique time in life (like my husband), and some are struggling. At our age, many of the people we know are making some smart decisions that will help them maintain their financial health and independence later in life: saving money, thinking about long-term care policies, etc. Many are thinking ahead and moving forward to the next phase by downsizing their living situation…kids are gone, time to move into something smaller, more energy efficient,maybe something with one floor and maintenance free. Very smart.

In our case, it’s a little different. We are moving from a lovely, comfortable middle-class home, to a “unique” post and beam home built from a 100-year old barn back in the 1970’s. Somewhat smaller, yes; it does have a room that would serve as a first-floor bedroom if necessary; it has a small apartment attached to help with the mortgage if need be. But it also has 11 acres, 3 small ponds, a wood stove and character up the wazoo. A post-50 lifestyle change indeed. We just moved in…we love it, it’s gorgeous and warm and we are more self-sufficient in the event of a power loss or other event.

Do our friends and family think we’re nuts? Maybe. Do we care? Nah.