Back to Sticks and Bricks ... Our Evolving Exit Strategy

Always a gorgeous view to the west!

 
      We enjoyed a wonderful Easter on Sunday with Valerie's daughter and her friend in nearby Boulder.  She prepared non-traditional steaks and salmon on the grill, and she almost tricked George into eating a bite of sweet potato.  We will be seeing more of Lindsay, a practitioner of Oriental medicine, who can hopefully help with some of our aches, pains, and ailments.  If you're in the Boulder or Twin Cities area and in need of treatment, she is the person to see!  http://www.modernpointacupuncture.com

Valerie's Easter dinner

      While we would normally stay at the Elks Lodge in Boulder, they advised they did not yet have water available for several days, and possibly indefinitely.  Due to our early April arrival, we would be staying somewhat longer term in need of sewer, so that prompted us to reserve a few weeks at the Dakota Ridge RV Park in Golden, about 20 miles away.  The drive between Golden and Boulder is quite scenic, so we are taking in the beauty that Colorado has to offer along the way.

      A couple of months ago, we shared with family and some business associates that, after some serious soul-searching, we were planning to end our full time RV adventure after roughly ten years of exploring this magnificent country.  We have met the most fascinating people, seen the most awesome sights, and the wonderful memories and photos will remain with us for the remainder of our lives -- mostly good, but certainly many challenging times.  

The Flatiron Mountains 

      Although we had not really planned on an exit strategy going into our full-timing decision, recent experiences weighed into our need to reconsider a return to the 'sticks and bricks' life.  More than one of our friends have experienced health-related issues which have necessitated long-term stays in unfriendly environments, which we are fairly certain we would not endure as cheerfully.  Additionally, the coach is aging and requiring more upgrades, while the dogs are aging and requiring more frequent veterinary care, and we are feeling the need for better continuity with our own growing lists of doctors and specialists.  

      Originally, we discussed a two-year transition, but recent health events have convinced us that now is probably a good time for us.  We have seen most of what we originally set out to see, and we intend to continue to travel -- but most likely in something smaller after a return home to get our ducks back in order.

Our site is on the right at Dakota Ridge RV Park in Golden, CO

      But now there are so many things to consider.  First and foremost is where will we locate?  Without much thought, we looked at a few homes in the West Valley outside Phoenix.  We often have enjoyed mild sunny winters in the Desert Southwest, and property is reasonably priced with lots of senior communities and amenities, which would be fabulous.  One house fit our needs perfectly and, had we not slept on the matter, we would probably have made an acceptable offer the following day.  

      Our initial thought was to place an emphasis on climate, access to health care and air travel.  But after considering Phoenix, we decided that family was a most important consideration, especially since we would hope to avoid another move, possibly ten or twenty years advanced in ages.  And did we really want to entertain the possibility of burdening our kids with traveling thousands of miles to deal with helping to move us or deal with our property?  Could we survive harsh summer heat or cold winters?  What else should we consider?

      It keeps coming back to family.  Minneapolis offers lots of family but, without hesitation, it's a big NO -- high taxes, brutal winters, the state bird (aka mosquitoes).  Oklahoma City -- a little family, moderate climate, but direct flights out somewhat limited, recent earthquakes are a bit scary, and frankly, it seems somewhat isolated and even bordering on boring.  Maybe Michigan? -- No, far too cold and too far away from the rest of the family.  Greater Denver/Boulder, we are presently investigating.  It does offer some active senior communities, along with socials and activities with which we've been accustomed while at resorts during our travels.  We absolutely love the scenery, their extensive light rail, train and bus system, but again the cost of living seems a bit prohibitive.  And, we would add that the weather is delightful, (except that today it's cold and blustery, and will probably be snowing on the motor home before the night is over).

      That leaves Kansas City, which is by no means ideal, but probably makes the most sense.  We have lots of family in the area, it's centrally located, and we can get into the car, along with our two dogs, and within a day's drive visit kin folks in several directions, or just minutes to visit young grandchildren.  Property is somewhat reasonably priced, and Valerie is quite familiar with the area.  We will have the occasional blizzard, ice storm, or a tornado to dodge, and the humidity with which to suffer throughout the summer months -- although they say it's good for the skin.

      The good news is that we don't have to be in a hurry.  We will live in the RV and prepare it for sale, until we make that all important decision, so that we only have to think about moving once for now.  It will be like starting over, since we unloaded most of our material possessions all those years ago, and the remaining ones we had stored a couple of years later.  Valerie is confident that, if and when we settle on the right place, we can get by with a bed and a couple of bar stools until we gradually add to the needed furnishings as our budget and time permits.

Forsberg Iron Spring Park in Golden

      As much as we look forward to the next stage of our lives, the decision is definitely bittersweet.  We have been so blessed with good health, great friends, great experiences, and great family!  

      So, we've been busy with business, checking out the local opportunities, and exercising the dogs.  We'll conclude with wishing everyone safe travels and a fabulous weekend.  And do feel free to share your ideas and/or thoughts with us!

The dogs' favorite running place!