Monday, January 13, 2020

BIG NEWS- WE BOUGHT A CONDO

Listen-
Grab your coffee or tea
or vodka-
this is more wordy than most of my posts.

I am the person that has always said,
"I will NEVER live in a condo"~
Yep!  That was me!
NEVER!

Plus, after selling our home on the bay,
we have been renting from
the greatest landlord(s).
A brand new twindo that is gorgeous--
but not ours, you know?
I sure hate letting them know
we are moving.

So-Why are we moving?
Life changes.
Health changes.
Needs & wants change.

There is a small complex
that I have always loved.
45 units total-
3 or 4 blocks from my daughter's home.

NOTHING ever comes up
for sale in this complex.
Well, guess what?
Being in the real estate business,
I pull up new listings everyday
in the price range I am 
interested in.

Lo & Behold (don't ya love that old saying)--
a WONDERFUL UNIT came
on the market in our price range.
I jumped on it.
In less than 30 days the unit 
was ours-
signed, sealed and delivered.

Here's the best part-
the original owner's daughter
is one of the nicest people
I have ever not met.
We have texted and emailed
and she is thrilled that we will
LOVE THIS PLACE
like her mom did.
She is going to come see us
after we get the work done
and we move in.

So-the condo---
California Shed Style Condo.
It was build in 1976 and the
original owners took 
excellent care of it.
It is in wonderful condition
but dated!
My son, Ryan, has graciously
stepped up to the plate 
and is overseeing the work being done there.

The best part is that it has a 
PRIVATE FRONT PATIO
and an even more
PRIVATE BACK PATIO.

We don't back up to any other condos.
However, we do back up to 
A GRAVEYARD.
My wonderful son has said that
"when the time comes"
he can just throw us over the fence.
Yes-it is true!
I raised a kid that has my 
warped sense of humor.
Not everyone thinks we are funny---
starting with MyHero~

So, I will be doing lots of
BEFORE & AFTER 
pictures as this reno progresses.
We are slated to move in by 
the end of March.
Meanwhile-
I have to get busy 
a-sortin' & a-purgin'.
Wish me luck cuz you know 
I will need it.

Just a little teaser for you---
Our backyard---
OH DEER!
your photo name

79 comments:

Shirley said...

Hi Diana, I am so happy for you and will be looking forward to the before and after pictures. I laughed at your son's comment of just throwing you over the fence when the time comes. You never know what the kids are going to say. Having family closer is always need. You could even walk to their house. Love it. Take care my friend. Hugs and prayers from your Missouri Friend Shirley

Jan said...

Congratulations-this sounds like the perfect place! A beautiful view from your backyard too. Can't wait to see the pictures!

Kim said...

This is great new, Diana! I'm so happy for you.What a view. So pretty. Congratulations and bring on the pictures...you know I can't resist a good before and after!!

Pat Bennett said...

I'm SO happy for you , Diana! it sounds perfect. I especially like the peace & quiet of your cemetery neighbors.
Looking forward to updates!

Quiltingwiththefarmerswife said...

Congratulations on finding your new place. It is so hard to find 'just the right place' when you are our age. Oh sorry.....you are a few years younger than me. Very happy for you and I look forward to seeing the renovation pictures. P.S. I want a seat at the table that faces the dear. Patty McDonald

Pamela M. Steiner said...

Well, graveyard or not, that sure is a beautiful back yard! Are those deer for real? Yeah, I guess I could live there until I die too. We will look forward to the before and after pictures...I can only imagine how wonderful it will be! (Your condo, that is...not the other place. LOL). Close to the kids is nice. That is what we've done, not a condo, but close to the kids ...about a mile, and that is close enough for all of us. God is good! So happy for you! Enjoy your new home.

Ron said...

So happy for y'all! I cannot wait to see photos of the progress. Congrats! xo

Nil @ The Little House by the Lake said...

congratulations, Diana!
Like everyone else, I'm also looking forward to see photos of your new home. :)
It sounds like an ideal place for you.

Stacey said...

Diana, congratulations!! How exciting for you all. Love your positive attitude and your son's sense of humor too. :)

Dewena said...

That is so exciting, Diana! And what a backyard! There's a cute little YouTube channel young woman and they have a graveyard right by their darling cottage. It even seems to add to the charm of their place. It's going to be fun for us to follow along with what you do there and then after you move and settle in. So do keep the camera rolling!

MadSnapper said...

you should have started with Deer in the backyard, that would hook me right away. I can't wait to see just what a California Shed Style Condo looks like. congratulations and there comes a time condos are perfect. bob says there will never come a time for him. but I would love it. there is one a few blocks from us, small like yours and all the units have front and back courtyards, walled courtyards and beautiful park like everywhere else. they rarely come on the market and alas, I could never afford one, but I would if I could.

MadSnapper said...

I am still laughing at the throw over the fence. it IS FUNNY!!!!

Tom said...

...I'm ready to live so close to my neighbors!

Vee said...

Congratulations! It sounds wonderful. 😊

Pom Pom said...

Awesome! I'm so happy for you! I can't wait to see it! xo

HIBISCUS HOUSE said...

I am so excited for you Diana!!! How wonderful! Nope, I never would have dreamed you in a condo but it is going to be marvelous! Perfect location close to the daughter, can't beat that! It will be like a vacation every day I think! Deer in the backyard! They are beautiful! I'm excited to see the updates y'all do for sure!
xoxo Dolly

Carol Henstra said...

Congratulations Diana

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

Oh deer...indeed! It really does sound perfect and so nice that you can spruce it up too! I'm VERY happy for you! A condo is great! I think you'll really love it! Sweet hugs!

Betty said...

I envy you. We have been looking around for a new home or land to buy and put one on. Hubby retires next year. We can't decide on what to buy. He wants to move to the boonies and I want near a town because of our age. Can't wait to see your pictures.

Chatty Crone said...

I'm so happy for you. Wonderful. What a view! I am happy for you.

Ann said...

How exciting. Congratulations. I'm looking forward to watching the progress.
Throwing you over the fence sounds like something I would say...lol Wade and I used to talk about who would go first and he said I had to get life insurance or he wouldn't be able to afford to bury me. I said just dig a hole in the back yard and tell everyone I left town.

Ricki Treleaven said...

The fun part is when the fluffing starts! Have you picked colors yet? It will be fun watching you decorate your new space. Congratulations! You will love being so close to your daughter. :D

Susie said...

Diana, Dang that "nut" son of yours didn't fall far from the tree. That boy is so your son !!! LOL. I know you love decorating and will have this new home all decorated like you want. Oh I am happy you will be close to your daughter and grands. Some great family time in your future. I love your view in the backyard. Wishing you the very best. Blessings, xoxo,love you, Susie

happyone said...

Sounds like a great place to live if you like condos.
I wish you much happiness.

Wanda said...

Oh my goodness...what a miracle and just at the right time. That is just how I felt 4 years ago when the Lord opened the door for us to move to Villa Ramona. I can't wait to see your before and afters.
We love our balcony...you will enjoy yours to the fullest.

Don is recovering so well from the stroke he had Christmas Eve, but we still walk a fine line with the CHF. But God is awesome in meeting all our needs, and in the process, conforming us more to His image. PTL.

Love and hugs...It's not the destination, but the journey...enjoy yours.

wisps of words said...

HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!

Please repeat that about a thousand times!!!!

Sooooo very happy for you.

Breathlessly awaiting pictures!!!!!!

Gentle hugs...

🔥💛🔥

Debbie said...

Woot, Woot!! Great news, Diana!! Everything sounds perfect! Even the option to throw you over the fence when/if that option should come up. Looking forward to all the photos that will be shared in the near future. So happy for you, my friend. Love to you. Debbie xo

Simply LKJ said...

I am so happy for you both sweet friend. Look forward to following along.

Terri D said...

Doesn't it feel good?!!!! I am so happy for you and can't wait to see those befores and afters!! The yard is gorgeous and the deer a plus! Congratulations!

Pam Kessler said...

I grew up living very close to the local cemetery. Now that I think of it, it could be why our house was haunted. But I'm sure that won't happen at your new place. Tell Casper I said Hi! :)

Ginny Hartzler said...

How wonderful! I am SO happy for you! I was so hoping you would post pictures, and you did, and will!! Wow, a wonderful back yard! I don't know what California Shed style is, does it have steps, is it one story? Looking forward to your moving, more pictures, and how you will decorate it.

Linda @ Itsy Bits And Pieces said...

Congratulations, Diana! I am so excited for you...can't wait to see pics!

Heaven's Walk said...

Oh my gosh! I am beyond excited for you, Diana! This sounds and looks like the perfect space for you both - and close to family, too! I can hardly wait to see the pics of the inside once you get all moved in. Now....get busy, gf! You've got a whole lotta work to do! Purge on, girl! Lol!

xo Laurie

Doris said...

How fun! Can't wait to see the pictures. Yes, times change, we change, needs change...that said, I wonder if my hubby would ever change his mind and purchase a trailer near a beach? (the beach is NOT the problem ☺ My builder guy does not like trailers but that is the only thing we could possibly afford, hehe!)
BTW, I laughed at throwing you over the fence ☺☺☺

Liz@ HomeandGardeningWithLiz said...

Ooh that sounds perfect! Well at least your backyard neighbors are quiet and you know what kind of people live there! 🤣 Send me a picture!!

Junkchiccottage said...

Hellooooo. I could not be more excited for you. You have been so patient to find just the right place. This is going to be such a great place to call home. LOL Ryan and his sense of humor!!! At least you will have quiet neighbors.
Hugs,
Kris

NanaNor's said...

Dear Diana, I’m so excited for you, especially being so close to your girl. Nothing wrong with a condo- it’s better than a college apartment. Can’t wait to see it when your finished and move in, can’t believe you kept it from us!
Hugs,
Noreen

Lynne said...

Congratulations . . .
A motto I developed when I realized I was DOING for others
more often than ever considering myself . . .
“You can never ever do enough for yourself!”
So you go girl, happy you will be enjoying a new
renovated condo and some DEER. Have some fun!

Kim said...

That's wonderful news, Diana! How exciting for you!! Love your backyard and adopted pets!

Marilyn @ MountainTopSpice said...

So exciting Diana! I'm happy that this will be a place you can call home with quiet neighbors 😅, indeed a deerly wonderful spot!! 🌝

Starting Over, Accepting Changes - Maybe said...

Congratulations Diana, and have fun making the house into your home.

cloches and lavender said...

I'm so excited you found a place. You sound so happy and excited. When you said a graveyard I thought, quiet neighbors, ha,ha.

Can't wait to see progress.

Cindy

bobbie said...

At least you know your backyard neighbors won't be noisy!! (at least until the Zombie apocalypse!!!)
Congratulations!!!

Laura said...

Congratulations! We are all in a state of change these days, right?
It is all an adventure:)

Laura

coffeeontheporchwithme said...

How very exciting for you and your hero! I have no idea what style you referred to, so yes please, show us some pictures. I can imagine not wanting a condo after having a big home with a yard, etc., but never say never I guess. -Jenn

Buttercup said...

Sounds and looks fabulous and to be so close to your daughter. Wishes for many happy years in your new home.

Carla from The River said...

Fantastic news my friend. Living close to your daughter is going to be a lot of fun for you.
Good luck packing. :-)
Carla
P.S. you will still be a Green Bay Packer Fan?

Dr. S. said...

I’m a Missouri friend too! Saint Charles!

Dr. S. said...

Oo this is so exciting. Where is this lovely place? Cannot wait to see your before and afters.

Kathy said...

Congratulations! I am so happy for you. I can't wait to see all the pictures.

Debra She Who Seeks said...

I'm so happy for you! Congrats! It sounds perfect! Looking forward to more posts and photos as your renos and move-in progess!

Jenny the Pirate said...

GASP! WOW, truly wonderful news, Diana. Let me add my heartfelt congratulations to all those you've already received. The joy you feel in this new homeplace jumps off the page, and makes me thrilled for you. I have ALWAYS wanted to live next to a graveyard so count me totally JEAL on that score! I hope you'll post lots of pictures when you're settled in. Thanks for sharing your marvelous news. xoxo

Bless said...

Congratulations! I'm so excited for you! Nice view of the backyard and you won't worry about anyone building there to block your view of the deer! Very thoughtful of you, too, to find a place that will make it so easy for your son when the time comes! :o :D

Looking forward to seeing the pictures, before, during, and after! Not sure what a California shed looks like, but, it will be interesting to find out! Now I know who to turn to when my daughter thinks she's ready to buy a place! Once you get over the shock of our housing prices, that is! :D

Jackie said...

I am BEYOND happy for you!
I look forward to seeing each photo you post.
Thank you for your kind words on my blog.
Sending hugs,
Jackie

FlowerLady Lorraine said...

This is exciting! May all go smoothly with getting your new home ready, with purging, and moving in. God's continued blessings on you ~ FlowerLady

Gay Van Beek, Canterbury Cottage Designs said...

Congratulations~ John and I are ready to do the same but we are stuck here for the time being caring for our parents. I just want a smaller place with less cleaning involved! Happy for you gf and can't wait to see pics.

Rita C at Panoply said...

Congratulations, Diana! How lucky you were to jump on that property and be able to close so fast. Being near your daughter and having your son oversee the work is priceless. I love his humor. Being situated on the river and being the youngest of 9 (7 are girls), I tell my family I'll just put them in their wheelchairs, put on their lipstick, and roll them over when the time comes. :) I had to google CA shed style...wasn't really sure what that is, but hope you'll share your journey, esp the fun part of nesting. I see a big wave in blogging overall with transitioning to an easier life and living. Cheers to that!

Ann@A Sentimental Life said...

Congratulations! Look forward to seeing more. How nice to be that close you your daughter.

Julie's Creative Lifestyle said...

Congrats on finding a new home and being so close to your daughter. All the best.

Estelle's said...

Oh I am so excited for you Diana....I love that this seems to be a good change for you...please keep us posted on the updates and remodel...congrats on your transition!

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

How exciting! I can't wait to see the befores and afters!

Sally said...

How exciting; gosh I'm so happy for y'all. You're gonna love being in the backyard with scenes like this!

I bought a condo years ago; unfortunately I was 'sandwiched' between the top condo and the bottom. I was working then, and having to get up at 4:30 a.m. The top 'lady' had all tile floors and wore heels; tap, tap. The bottom lady must have worked in a bar 'cause about 2:30 a.m. she cranked the stereo up LOUD. Yes, I moved. :)

Excited to see your before and after photo's, Diana, I know it will be beautiful!

xoxo

I'm mostly known as 'MA' said...

Such good news for you! Congratulations. Ir'a nicw you have the time until March to get your sorting done. It's not easy and I can relate. Downsizing was the hardest thing I'd ever done. Been there and done that but I'm loving my smaller space. It's nice you will have your privacy and that view of the property looks delightfu ti ne.l.

jack69 said...

YEP that NEVER word sometimes bites you. LOL Ours is a two unit Condo. I was a NEVER guy also.
Hope you guys enjoy the place and the renovations. Yep you can enjoy the mess and FIXIN' when you can see past it.
The best to you guys....
Sherry & jack

Karen thisoldhouse2.com said...

ahahahaha... I love your son's remark! LOLOL... that's hilarious.

very nice back yard!

Busy Bee Suz said...

It sounds like serendipity has stepped in and set up your fate. All the best on the renovations-I know you'll make it just perfect for the two of you.

Brenda Pruitt said...

Congrats! I think having a graveyard behind me would be lovely. The dead don't make noise.
Brenda

Cindy @ Dwellings-The Heart of Your Home said...

Congratulations, how exciting! Things do change, for sure...every decade especially has a way of altering the one before. I love the deer. Added bonus...it's so close to a resting place! ha, ha.
Love,
Cindy

Judy at GoldCountryCottage said...

Diana, I am so glad that you are going to be settled again. Your condo sounds lovely even backing up to a graveyard. Aren't kids such fun!!! Looking forward to seeing pics when you get settled..Congrats..xxoJudy

Adam said...

Congrats

Cathy @ My 1929 Charmer said...

Congratulations and it sounds like you found the perfect place!! At least having your yard backed up to a cemetery you won't have to worry about loud parties 😄 When need be you won't have far to go to visit! 🤔

Jeanie said...

Congratulations (again!) I love your backyard action -- that's beautiful. It'll be a busy time but I think you'll be so happy!

Rose L said...

Hopefully the spirits in the back area do not party too much! I hope you enjoy being closer to family.

Creations By Cindy said...

So excited for you and your new journey. Your son sounds like my middle daughter...Love the humor and Lord knows in this old world we need lots of laughter. So happy for you friend. Hugs and blessings, Cindy

Lorrie said...

Congratulations! Love your son's comment about over the fence! Exciting days ahead for you. Happy purging!

Amy Chalmers said...

That is awesome when things come together on a spur of the moment and it feels completely right!!! I am excited for you and your hero and the next phase of your life. The private outdoor spaces are big for me too.

Cristina Garay said...

How wonderful Diana! Congratulations!

Simple Pleasures said...

Congrats Di, it’s going to be beautiful and I can’t wait to see you to work your magic! Xo

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