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Last month my husband and I sold the 90 year old house where we raised our children and lived for 38 years and moved to a nearly new solar houseboat. We're in our mid 60's and still fit and active and we wanted to simplify our life. We loaned a few family antiques to friends and family, but mostly we sold or donated furniture and started over with things that suit our contemporary home. As one of the stages of downsizing we do have a storage unit filled with things that will more slowly be jettisoned.

Emotionally: it was harder for my husband eventhough he was the one who wanted to live on a houseboat. I was keen to have less yard and household responsibility. Of our three children, it was very sad for our sons, though they were supportive. Our daughter had a "go for it" attitude from the beginning. Everyone is looking forward to barbecues on the river all summer.

We've heard that living on or near the water adds years to one's life. It must be true: there are several octogenarians at our moorage. We hope to enjoy this new adventure for many years.

I'm listening to Darlene. I strive to get the storage unit emptied out over the next few months and her "8 bankers boxes" will stand as an inspiration.

Lynn

posted 3 years ago
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