Location

...location location.

Our new location in Portland is really growing on me! Our home/condo choice surprised a lot of people...even us. In a recent post I reflected a bit on things "falling into place"....and that's still how it feels.  There's work to do...but that's OK...we have lots of time. And, there's something about putting a little sweat equity into a home that really makes it yours.

When we sold our house in South Portland we were determined to find another one in the same area.

Portland Head Light

We loved being across the Casco Bay Bridge from Portland...so much to do and see and easy access to the water. But we quickly learned that because of those perks it meant low inventory and high prices....which worked in our favor when selling the last house. Homes we could afford were too small with too much to work to do and selling for way more than they should.

The Bug Light

So we widened our scope and reevaluated our priorities and landed in a condo on the north side of Portland. Portland is really a small city....so anywhere in Portland is close to everywhere. And, we were always open to a condo...it just needed to be right....enough.

We love the idea of the simplicity of a condo while we are part time now...and know we'll appreciate it when we are full time during retirement. Paul made two comments during the process that have resonated with me:
"We've been happy everywhere we've lived."
"There's something nice about people getting together to talk to each other about how to live together".....even if it isn't always easy.

We wanted simple and quiet and we wanted space for hobbies and guests. Truth be told Paul and I are homebodies.....we actually like staying home. And...we're good at taking field trips and going on outings. Acadia National Park is just 3 hours away. Jane's Beach is just 25 minutes away. Bug light Park is just 20 minutes away. Portland Head light is just 25 minutes away. East End Beach and downtown Portland are just 15 minutes away...and the bike path around Back Bay is just 10-12 minutes away.  And...as Paul learned last week roaring rapids on the Presumpscot River are just a mile away. And have I mentioned that there's a pool right across the street? Location Location Location!

I can't believe I'm including this selfie...but this was my inaugural swim tonight....and decided that I didn't really care what I looked like.
It was a lovely night and I had the whole place to myself.