Moving Forward in Retirement with a Destination Move...

Bloom where you are planted. We have moved to three different homes since Curly’s retirement. The friends we have met, have made it all worthwhile. I cannot image going through life without meeting these people.

We started our first retirement move from Austin, Texas to Rice Lake, Wisconsin.

Living on the lake was our dream back then and we followed it. We enjoyed 9 years owning our lake home but then the time came to move to a warmer climate. Our first move after Rice Lake was to the condo in Fountain Hills, Arizona.

After a few years we decided a home would allow more space for when our family would come to visit. So that is where we are currently living and had the remodel include all handicap accessibility throughout the home, pool, and yard.

A few years ago, we did our five-year assessment where we both decided we would like to remain here for at least the next five years.

I love planning and because of that there is always something we can add to make our home seem new again. This year we added the new coffee bar.

Next year it maybe something else. My ideas usually come when I go for my daily walk. I came home last week and said to Curly, “have you ever thought we should expand the front walkway into a patio?” I may have received an eyeroll, but I do know the seed has been planted.

One suggestion in making a move is to start by renting. See if the area is where you would like to be. We rented short term in Arizona for seven years, trying different areas before we purchased the condo in Fountain Hills. In the beginning we were happy to hand back the keys to the landlords and head north in the spring. As we explored the area more, we found Fountain Hills and realized this is the place we wanted to be. Give yourself time, rent first.

If you are going to rent, find a place that has some activities. The pool, morning coffee or a weekly happy hour is a great way to meet your neighbors. When you are coming south, remember to check to see if their pool is heated in the winter, that is a necessity. Make a list of your interests. Many of our friends have come from our church. Do a little church shopping if that is something that will be part of your life. Whatever your interest is with the internet you can find a group to participate in, just google it. Also do not forget that our society needs volunteers. Animal shelters, schools, theatres, churches would welcome your presence.

We both truly feel like we have found our Utopia in Fountain Hills, Arizona. There is so much to a move but if you approach it before you need to it may become exciting and rejuvenating. After doing your homework, decide and with joy move forward to your move in your retirement!