I think part of what is helping is that I've been downsizing for 6-7 years now. I live in 980 sq ft in Maui (although it also has a two car garage which sure helps with storage). My move back to Oregon will consist of two suitcases. Maybe just one, as I am already talking myself out of moving some items.
Because I am renting Maui "furnished" and to a great friend, I don't have to pack and ship or sell everything before I go. She has a two year lease and we'll just take it from there. She's excited to have a garage, 600 feet of beautiful lanai with landscaping in pots with their own watering system and a wonderland of tiny lights.
(I am in bedroom 3)
I'm looking forward to getting back my adjustable KING size bed and keeping my clothes and possessions to the bare minimum (as I have in Maui ... I still use just "my" side of the closet). I'm planning on IKEA floor to ceiling bookshelves and I will use baskets as drawers for folded items, and carry-alls with my bathroom items (I'm sharing with two little boys). Hopefully I will find two drawer file cabinets to use as night stands.
I will get to invite one little man at a time for a "sleep over".
Each purchase is made with great deliberateness. Clothes, shoes, cookbooks, and a good thing that when we get to a certain we don't "need" much stuff.
Stay tuned for updates!
Like you said, you've done it before so you won't have any surprises with your new living arrangements. And best of all you're doing it because you want to, not because you have to for financial or health reasons.
ReplyDeleteSo many other cultures do this multigenerational living. I'm so glad it works for us as well.
DeleteThe boys--it's all about the boys!!! Do it now while they still have time for you.
ReplyDeleteIt's all about ME enjoying the boys while they still think it's a great thing! I'm so luck!
DeleteYou'll get to see the boys all the time, and you'll be such an important part of their lives. It used to be the norm for grandparents to live with their children and grandchildren, and the grandkids benefited so much from that arrangement.
ReplyDeleteUsing file cabinets for end tables or as nightstands is a great idea in small spaces. You'll figure out all sorts of space-saving techniques. We all have more than we need. I'm ready to go on a purging tear again. I've only been hear a year and a half, and I don't know everything that's on the top shelf in my closet. I stick everything up there. Less is more.
Less IS more. I love having 7 choices of outfits that fit and make me feel good. I hope to do that in Oregon as well.
DeleteAlthough I don't think I could live in a tiny house ... a tiny room should be fine. The condo complex has TWO clubhouse rooms and a kitchen in between, so I can entertain if I like. The whole town is pretty walkable ... as soon as I get the right knee replaced!!!
That sounds perfect for you, the entertaining part. We sometimes think in a one-track sort of way, but there are many ways to live.
DeleteI like the way restricted circumstances--whatever they may be--permanent or temporary cause you to live intentionally. To spend your time, energy, and money on those things that are truly the most important to you. That prioritization and that intentionality really distills life down to its essence and because of this, I believe, allows for fuller appreciation, enjoyment, and deeper living. A thoughtful life...
ReplyDeleteThanks. I think you may have started your own downsizing when moving from Alaska to Maui. And now California. I really want to do the wardrobe thing ... where every outfit makes me feel happy and I can accessorize to change the look! Miss you!
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