It’s been a year since the move. The cars are still tolerating unpacked boxes in the garage. We still can’t find stuff. Solution? Buy the thing again after determining what my hourly-worth is to see if it’s cheaper to visit Amazon.com than to waste hours hunting!
What To Expect Next Year
After a full cycle of cyclones, flying ants, and other insects, I’m happy to report our family made it through the hurricane that skirted eastern Florida with nary a scratch. Only one shutter bolt was found to be faulty.
I also discovered that I can take down ALL the shutters myself. For the double patio doors I highly recommended coercing someone to help. I’m sure I pulled a muscle in my left shoulder.
I was dreading ‘flying ant season’ in the new place … in all previous residences I encountered ants getting in through invisible cracks, no matter how much I sprayed around the exterior. The new place came through with flying colors and no flying ants.
New Gutters Gush With Pride
So glad I splurged on a new shingled roof. I also decided to add gutters down the sides of the house as only the front facade, and the rear around the pool, were fitted with gutters. Copious amounts of rain were well diverted, protecting the slab foundation from future cracks.
Speaking of cracks, it was great to have the house all painted pretty. Here’s the old gal wearing her new coat and hat.
Heating and Cooling Bills
After a full year, I now know what it costs to heat and cool almost 2000 sq ft and it was less than I had expected. That’s the beauty of moving into a relatively new house that’s got better insulation.
Would love to heat the pool for the winter season. I know the heat pump will cost more because it’s a salt-water pool – I’ve been led to believe that it will be more expensive because it has to handle the corrosive nature of salt water. Funny how salt water is better on my skin though!
Know Thy Neighbors
It’s a gamble when you move. I feel blessed with our neighbors. Actually, I feel blessed all around. I’m grateful to have a roof over my head, to be warm and dry, and (over)fed.
