Friday, October 21, 2005

The Adventure Begins

The house went on the market last night. ULP! I guess I'm really going to do this! I've signed on the dotted line. People came out and dug a big hole and planted a big-ass sign in my front yard. And, lo! Someone has already called about seeing the place. But, he seemed sort of confused. I somehow doubt he will actually show up. Not an auspicious beginning, but any time you subject yourself to the general public, you have to be prepared for the weirdos.

I think we've priced the house on the low side of the market. I'll get enough money out of it to do what I need to do, if I get my asking price. And I think I will. But, when? The house across the street sold in less than 2 weeks. There have been some on this street that are approaching their third month on the market. But, they are waaaay overpriced, IMHO. I will get antsy if this drags on more than a month. Interest rates are creeping up. Don't people realize it's now or never? Especially in THIS market. It's obscene. I kinda feel bad, contributing to the rape and pillaging of the local house-hunter....but not bad enough to cut someone a fantastic deal.

I had to laugh when I read the listing this morning. "Mrs. Clean lives here." No shit. Mrs. Clean. If my family reads that, someone will bust a gut, for sure. But, apparently, I'm playing the game correctly. I've got 'em fooled.

Saturday, October 01, 2005

Oktoberfest!

I am so glad to have September behind me. October has GOT to be better.

Actually, things are going pretty well. This forced "retirement" has been good for me in many ways. I feel like a new person. I'm rested. Happy. Optimistic. Too bad the pay's not indefinite. I could get used to this!

The big focus of my life right now is getting the house ready to sell. I'm upset with myself that I let the place get out of control. PILES of stuff went to the thrift store. Piles more will be going again soon. Plus, there's a trip to the landfill in my future. That'll be a first. Always an adventure.

I had been deeply depressed for probably two years, and about all I ever did was go to work, come home, eat and go to bed. As a result, there's a fine scum all over everything. The cobwebs alone could be woven into a fine silk scarf! Not conducive to selling the house. At least, not if I want to get the most out of it that I possibly can. So, I'm cleaning. And painting. And patching. And organizing. I had hoped to have the house on the market today, but it's going to be at least another week. Maybe even 10 days.

But, the good news is, I'm leaving a much-improved home behind me in every room I touch. Why didn't I do this BEFORE? Why didn't I allow myself to enjoy the fresh color, organized storage areas, etc? I get so frustrated with myself sometimes.

Another ongoing frustration is my weight. I'm at an all-time high. This is probably not the best condition to be in when job-hunting. So, as of this morning, I'm on yet another weight-loss campaign. This time I'm not foolish enough to think I'm going to lose a huge amount. That's just setting myself up for failure. Right now, I'd be happy with a 10% loss. That would take me back into a reasonably plump area. Hopefully, I can get rid of that poundage by the time I'm ready to start interviewing.

Renovations everywhere I look! Change is good.