Last fall Glen and I made a momentous decision to sell our second home in Arizona. Gulp! We did not reach this decision easily. It followed much deliberation, debate, discussion — in a context of sadness. Although we accepted it was the right move, we felt bereft at the prospect of closing the door to our beloved condo for the last time.
We continue to be immensely grateful for the privilege of being winter residents in Scottsdale. We cherish our good friends, the sports, arts and cultural activities, the brilliant blue skies and awesome sunsets, the exotic variety of cacti and trees, and the southwest art and decor in our home. Age dictated our decision. It’s that simple and at the same time that complex. As Canadians, we know we must eventually say goodbye to our home in the U.S. And our departure will hurt no matter when. But as we age we must somehow manage, with as much poise as possible, life’s stages and changes. Examples include the empty nest syndrome, retirement, downsizing, and moving.
Meeting with a realtor calmed us about the logistics. Nathan understands dealing with Canadians entails not only selling their homes but also helping to dispose of furniture and household goods. He made our daunting project seem manageable. We agreed to list our condo at the end of March.
On a long walk in January, I recalled a couple of my favourite sayings: I retain the irrevocable right to change my mind. And, when in doubt do nothing. Doubt had crept into my mind. Then I listened to my gut talking. So Glen and I sat down to review our decision. After less deliberation, debate, discussion, we did an abrupt reversal, deciding to put the sale on hold.
Vancouver and I share birthdays, a fact I discovered when we moved here a dozen years ago. Perhaps our shared birthdays — Vancouver turns 138 today while I’m considerably younger — is an omen: to commit wholeheartedly to this City is my destiny. Given Vancouver ranks as one of the world’s best walking cities, and my penchant is to walk most everywhere, I will wear my destiny well. When it’s the right time. ♥
Patricia Britton says
The gut is always right. You will know when the time is right.
Barbara Richardson says
A great quote to live by. Pam! Those two roads always diverge and we choose one. But the poem never reflects on what happens when we turn back. It also makes all the difference..
Linda Richardson says
Pam, you have such a great winter lifestyle down there. Rick and I are happy for you and Glen. I am reminded of your earlier blog about making decisions. It seems that both head and heart were involved in this one but heart won out.
Marilyn RB says
As you said, your heart will let you know when it’s the right time. Wishing you a very Happy Birthday, Pam!
Cookie says
Your friends won’t understand my comment, but decisions such as these require a group vote.
Thank goodness, this time, you made the right one.
Catherine Mccallum says
First of all, Happy Birthday. Second of all you have begun discussions on your next move and when the time feels right you’ll do it. Everything in stages
Sonya Bardati says
First, Happy Birthday Pam, second, yes it was hard to let go our second home in the south. We made that decision two years this past March. Yes, it was difficult, we had given ourselves some criteria to follow, to make sure about our final decision. We followed them religiously plus we had a buyer at our door, That made it a plus and yes we were ready. Since we love our place in Parksville we did not miss our place at the resort in Arizona, it was also time because we were on the cuff of 80. Instead we started exploring adventures south for the winter. One month at a time somewhere. Last year, it was Puerto Vallarta, this winter it was a resort in Cayo Coco, Cuba and a Panama Canal cruise, for next year we have already booked another cruise. You will know when it will be time for you, no regrets to be had. Bonne chance Pam and Glen.
Janet Anderson says
Happy birthday Pam!
When you first mentioned the sale I was quite surprised.
I’m pleased you have both reached a mutual agreement!
Chris says
Happy Birthday! It is a gift to ourselves that we can make decisions that are enriching our lives. I’ve also made a couple of similar decisions. When things started to clarify for me, it was my heart’s excitement that make me feel I’d made the best choice! For now.