While talking with my daughter-in-law about 5-year plans, the topic of my house in Freeport came up. Wayne and I have only been there for 4 years but the house really feels like home—my home. I lived in the same house in South Portland for 20+ years and raised my 3 sons there but it never felt like home to me. Freeport, in the woods, close to nature instantly felt like home.
Anyway now that we’re empty nesters, we’re questioning why we have this large house. We love it for family gatherings because we have 7 children and 7 grandchildren. But evenings when we walk through the empty living room and dining room to get to the den, we wonder why we have it all? Is it really necessary?
We have a tiny little house in remote Washington County and ask ourselves, could we live in something this small all the time? I think yes, but there is something holding me back. If I can afford the Freeport house, why can’t I have it—I love it! But then I ask, is this really where I want to spend my money? Would I rather do something else with the extra funds it takes to live in and maintain this home?
Interesting thought—especially since I’m working on refinancing the mortgage for a lower rate. Is it worth paying closing costs on a new loan if we’re going to sell? And, is this really the right time to think of selling? Do I want to do anything?
Hmmm—seems like I’ve been here before!
5 thoughts on “Round and Round We Go!”
Hi Jane-
Now that Sue & I are living in the NW I am finding there are tremendous resources in the area of sustainable building, which touches upon the issue of what is the “right” size home to live in? I have a book, The Not so Big House which you might be interested in. I think most americans are unaware that buildings (commercial and residential) are the sector of the economy that uses the most energy and also cause tremendous inefficiencies when it comes to unutilized space etc. I think smaller can be better and rooms with multi-function purposes are cosier too. Good luck.
Barry Woods
Hi jane,
As you know I’m single now and all the decisions now are all mine.because gita pay’s my morgagae I have room to breth.I think I make good choices and decions not everytime but close.I use my intuitsion a lot.
there is the question of a smart money move and what makes sence money wise.the problem here is in the human emotions.
love ya susieQ
Follow your heart! If you love it, keep it or look around and see it there is something else you can love even more. Maybe just be looking you will confirm either keeping your home you love or finding a new one to love more!
The home within is all you truly seek. Let go of the rest and the answers will come. And maybe…you can have it all!!! Love
Hi, Jane. Happened to glance at your blog and noticed your reference to Washington County. Where is your house ?? Through a convoluted process of LLCs and IRAs (per Atty Jim Houle) we now own retirement real estate in Milbridge, on the river. 4.5 acres. Now if we could just retire. Hopefully, 2-3 years.
Nancy Neely