CH-CH-CHANGES
I feel like I’ve named at least three other blog posts that over the years. Forgive my redundancy. This old tired brain can come up with just so many new ideas.
That said, I’ll explain a bit about something I mentioned in last week’s Year in Review post. Specifically, that I will be moving again. I love my apartment, I love this town, I don’t want to leave. But the house that my apartment is in is being sold – going on the market in March. This area has a very strong seller’s market right now and houses are selling FAST. Probably fastest case scenario, I’ll have to be out by end of May. BUT, you never know and it could take longer. I need to be prepared, however, to move by June. (Note: since writing and scheduling this post it has come to my attention that I will need to be out by March 1. Wish me luck!)
And, unfortunately, since the housing market is strong so is the rental market. Rents have just skyrocketed the past few years while I’ve been in the “land-friend” (Landlord that is a friend) bubble. So when I look around now at apartments in the same price range that I’ve been paying for the past six years I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. And with a cat?!?
So I will be spending time this winter downsizing and packing – AGAIN – but also enjoying the heck out of this charming town and my beloved apartment while I still can. And I’m gonna have Zen Corner before I leave if it kills me!!!
I love eating at the Main Street Cafe. They have a great lobster bisque and caesar salad and in the nice weather they can fit two little tables out on the sidewalk and I love eating outdoors. Especially here in such a walkable area. All during the year people are out in town, going into the shops, walking with their dogs, and I love people watching…and meeting all the doggies.
This is a great outfit for being out and about. The town is small enough that there’s not too much walking for a bootie with a medium-height heel like this. And if my feet start complaining there are plenty of spots to sit and rest for a few.
The denim shirt and medium-weight leopard cardigan are the perfect weight for me to be in and out of shops. Why do stores crank the heat up SO HIGH in the winter? Sure it might be cold outside, but inside, walking around, trying things on, lugging packages, surrounded by other shoppers?? I can barely stand to be inside stores…let alone an actual MALL. So a coat is out of the question for me when shopping/erranding, on all but the very coldest days.
See the candy-cane wrapped parking meters? In December the town gifts visitors with free parking – how nice is that??
Is it an impossibility to think I can stay in this town? It’s not an impossibility, but it doesn’t seem likely, given the current market value of apartments in this area. So, I peruse sites such as Zillow and CraigsList and HotPads almost daily, just so I have a feel for what’s available to me at any given time. I’m trying to keep an open mind, but…what I see is generally discouraging. I will try not to whinge about it all winter. I just wanted to explain my mention of it in last week’s post. And, just slightly, put it out there into the universe that I’m gonna need a little help finding a new home soon.
What I’m Wearing
- Sanctuary Leopard Cardigan in both straight and plus sizes. Shown here in plus size 2x.
- Caslon chambray button-down shirt in plus and straight and petite sizes. Shown here in plus size 4x.
- Old Navy Rockstar skinny jeans, size 22 short. Available in plus and straight sizes
- Avenue booties, old. Comparable here and here.
Thanks to Robert Mitchell Photography for the pictures!
This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission if you click on them and/or buy something as a result of clicking that link.
Nancy
I would be so stressed out if I had to move so fast! I hope you will find a fabulous place. I send you a email, have you seen it?
bettyewp
Yes, sorry, my mind has been swirling and I haven’t responded yet – I will today!
Debbie from Illinois
Wishing you the best finding a great apartment. I know that this is going be stressful for you. I’m sending my thoughts and prayers that you will fine a home perfect for you and you cat.
By the way, you look fabulous in that outfit! 😊😊😊
bettyewp
Thank you, Debbie.
Julia
I wish you the best of luck Bettye! I hope something wonderful reveals itself to you, whether it’s an affordable place, big raise at work, money windfall or new job that pays you more. It can happen! I’m sending you good vibes!
Iris
As always I’m praying for you – and now especially. I can only imagine how stressed you are about the apartment – but there IS the perfect place out there for you – and IN the perfect location!!!
Love the sweater – I’m sure it looks great with almost anything.
Please keep us updated on the search!
Grace & Peace, Iris
http://www.IrisOriginalsRamblings.com
Sarah
Love this outfit on you! You look amazing and that obviously means you’re going to find an incredible new place. Isn’t that how it works?
bettyewp
Let’s hope so. Thanks, Sarah.
jodie filogomo
Gosh, I don’t know how you’re doing it…and keeping up writing posts. And working. That’s just all craziness. Yet…since it’s out of your control, you’ll make it happen. And maybe you’ll love the new place even more!
The cardigan is fabulous. I’ll have to have Nancy wear hers with her chambray shirt…it’s such a smart combo!!
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
bettyewp
Yeah, somethings gonna give this week or I’ll break. Gah. And I was just feeling so I AM WOMAN HEAR ME ROAR I CAN DO IT and now I’m feeling deflated.
Robin
Much success on your moving venture. It’s more than relocating–it’s like starting over–presents challenges AND opportunities. Like everything else, we get through it–don’t we? Hoping everything falls into place for you. Love your outfit, especially that cardigan.
bettyewp
Thanks, Robin. Yes, so many changes. And change is great when it’s something you WANT. Not so much if not.
Ashley
Wishing you all the best for your move, lady! Packing is so stressful- but you are a rockstar and will get through it!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
bettyewp
Thanks, Ashley. Just going on “fake it til you make it” for the time being!
Heather Taylor
Hi Bettye – I love your blog, so I’ve nominated you for the Sunshine Blogger Award! Please see my most recent blog post if you’re interested in taking part. Your blog posts are always so inspiring. I get great ideas from your outfits, and your writing is just so fun to read! I love your photos, especially all of your great poses. Thanks for having an awesome blog!
bettyewp
Well, that sounds fun! I could USE a little sunshine right about now! I cheerfully accept my nomination, thank you. I’ll take a look at your blog and see what my Miss Sunshine Blogger duties are! Thank you for a little bright spot in this overwhelming week.
Daenel T.
Wishing you the best of luck with your apartment hunt. I know how difficult that can be after our last move…
bettyewp
I’m shot this week! I’ve looked at so many ads on so many sites and hardly anyone responds to your messages! I finally saw one tonight that was the top of my budget and SO small. Would be perfect for a young person just starting out, but not for someone with a) a side hustle and b) STUFF. I’ve moved 5 times in the past ten years, downsizing each time. And I still have things I love and want around me in my home. There was no room for ANY of that in that apt. The search continues. Thanks for luck, I need it!