How To Sell A Cute Cottage In 30 Days

At the end of February Dennis and I decided to sell our sweet red cottage and move to Texas. Of course, when we made that decision, the garden didn't look like this.





It looked more like this.





And, frankly, that made the decision much easier. I'm just not a winter person. I'm a summer girl, born in late June. I like sunshine and flowers, green grass and frost-free windshields. Snow and frigid temps don't do it for me.

This past winter just about did me in and I found myself fighting depression daily. Since Dennis and I have a choice as to where we live, there was no reason to "brave the cold"; we could relocate to a warmer climate. Texas has been on our radar for a long time, and so we explored the possibility of selling our cottage and relocating to the Lone Star State.

Within a few days we had talked to a realtor and were considering listing our home. Before we got that far the word spread around our little town that we were thinking of selling our cottage, and within a few days a cash offer was made by a local resident and we were in escrow. 

Our house closed on April 2 and we hit the road. Along the way we had several layovers. The first was Moab, Utah, where we met up with one of our children.



Next stop, Colorado to visit another child.




After a few days we drove to Taos, New Mexico, one of our favorite spots.



Finally we arrived in central Texas, where my soul has found rest.



Before we left NE Oregon we sold everything, except for some of Dennis' paintings and sculptures, some clothes and a few books and personal items. We left with no household items -- no furniture, no dishes, no pots and pans, no family heirlooms; no lawn mower or garden tools. Basically, whatever didn't fit in the back of our Subaru had to go. (The artwork and a few boxes are being shipped to our new address.)

We've rented an apartment for now. Not sure if we'll buy or build again, or what we'll do. Ridding ourselves of all we owned in such a short time was exhausting,  but I can tell you that the freedom I feel at having let go of all that stuff is exhilarating. It's totally worth the effort, and starting over at our age is so much fun. We're like a couple of kids. 

I wanted to sit down and share the news of our relocation before it actually took place, but between the shortage of time and computer problems (my laptop died), I just couldn't make it happen. So here I am, folks. With a new life chapter. The way this all came together so quickly, and the peace I've felt at every turn is completely God's doing. I know this is part of His plan, and that everything He's been teaching me about letting go of things has led me to this moment. I'm so excited about the future. Is it going to be perfect? No. It never is. I know the summer here is going to be hot and humid, and there just might be a day or two when I wonder why we made this change. Although I have to say that the summers in NE Oregon are pretty darn hot, too. Maybe not humid, but definitely hot. So, we'll see, won't we? 

Now that I don't have a lot to take care of I'll be turning my attention to writing again. I'll be blogging more, sharing the happenings here, such as furnishing our new digs on a budget. Chatting with you about downsizing, purging, keeping life simple. These are things that I've learned a lot about, and maybe I've got some ideas to share that will help others who are on a similar journey. To be honest, I don't know exactly where A Joyful Cottage blog is going, or what my life is going to look like here where the bluebonnets bloom and folks are mighty nice, but it surely is going to be fun to see God's plan unfold. He's so faithful.

Thanks for hanging out with me, y'all. I've missed you so much.

Major hugs,

Nancy

P.S. Dennis gave me his computer -- which he recently purchased but no longer needs -- to replace the one that died. I've got a power cord problem, though, so in the next few days I have to ship it off for repair or replacement. All this is to say I may be offline for awhile. I'll try to stay in touch, though via other devices.

69 comments

  1. Good Morning Sweet Friend, I was delighted to see that you published a new post this morning. "Back in the saddle again, cowgirl" . . . so to speak, LOL
    I am sure that you have some wonderful ideas gleaned from all the many small cottages that you have written about through the years. All that research probably has tons of ideas running through your head.
    I wish you all the very best in your new adventure. Life is a journey and yours just turned a new page . . . your keeping it interesting . . . no moss growing under your feet. I love your energy and zest for life!
    God bless you both.
    Connie :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. How exciting !!
    I was wondering where you where.
    After watching HGTV Fixer Upoer I want to move to Waco Texas.
    We downsized to 1000 square feer 6 years ago then 2 years ago we upsized again and it suits us well.
    We found our perfect spot by the bay in Michigan.
    It will be exciting to see where you land.
    God Bless

    ReplyDelete
  3. Oh, oh, oh! I can imagine the freedom! Good for you. Life here is simple. My father lives with us so certain things taketo the back burner while we embrace this season. I like forward to hearing more of what you are leatlear as you go☀️

    ReplyDelete
  4. Oh, oh, oh! I can imagine the freedom! Good for you. Life here is simple. My father lives with us so certain things taketo the back burner while we embrace this season. I like forward to hearing more of what you are leatlear as you go☀️

    ReplyDelete
  5. It's SO good to see you here again. I can't wait to see what's ahead for you. If only you could have stopped a bit at my home in Oregon before you headed south you could have taught me firsthand how to simplify my home and life. I'm thrilled for the freedom you have and I look forward to enjoying what's ahead with you.
    ~Adrienne~

    ReplyDelete
  6. Congratulations on your new adventure! You are so brave. I wish you all that your heart desires and .... more!
    Sue
    xo

    ReplyDelete
  7. What a breath of fresh air to see your post Nancy! You and Dennis are my heroes❣️ I love the way that you two step out in faith. I dream of the freedom to take off into the unknown. Right now fear has paralyzed me.
    I would really love to LIVE again before I die. Your words encourage me to keep dreaming. I love you both. I can’t wait to follow your adventures!

    ReplyDelete
  8. Holy cow! What a brave couple you are! I envy you leaving everything behind to pursue your dream. Good for you! I look forward to hearing about this new venture.

    ReplyDelete
  9. I'm in shock! You built such a sweet red cottage and made it all so charming - hard to believe you've given it all up and run away!!!!! Actually though I don't blame you, especially when it comes to enjoying comfortable living in tolerable weather. I'd leave here in a heartbeat if I could get Bob to move! Here it is only early May and temp. is hovering close to 90F this week. I detest hot weather, anything over 70F and I'm miserable (+ mosquitoes, those hellish little devils!). This move, and without many material encumbrances, should be perfect, and you are at an age where you can deal with such a big change in your lifestyle.

    Good luck in this new venture dear - I wish you both well and will be looking forward to seeing what you two lovebirds get up to in the near future once settled again!

    Hugs - Mary

    P.S. Having spent much time 'living' on small ships during the past 9 years or so, I must say I really like not having a lot of stuff around when I've had to be in such a small cabin for up to 3 weeks - it's quite amazing how little we need for day to day survival!!!!! Of course I realize that's not a real life though and when I get home I love seeing all my things again.

    ReplyDelete
  10. I just have a big ‘ole smile on my face ☺️, that is all. You know the rest...LOVE YOU!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. LOL. I have a big ‘ole smile on my face, too.xo

      Delete
  11. Wa-hoo a fun new exciting venture for you and Dennis. How wonderful. I sensed something was up with you and I felt prompted to pray for you so many times. I even sent you a private email to let you know you were in my prayers. Now I know why. God is so good. I totally understand the down side of life in WA and Oregon's weather. Uggg. Moving out of the Pacific North West was the best thing I have ever done. The gray sky drizzles and winter months were absolutely miserable for me. I am a sunshine girl also, so I totally "get it". Your cottage was cute but you can make an apartment cute Nancy. No big deal. You can't always find enough sunshine though and I myself would rather live in a tent in a warmer climate with more days of sunshine than in a joyful cottage in what gals like us deem as nasty weather. Hey,, if you want to travel a bit more you are invited to come stay with me. Please contact me and we can chat more. You may fall in love with the Appalachian mountains and become a neighbor. God bless you and Dennis.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Miss Tonita! I did get your private email, and I replied to it. I wondered why I didn’t hear more from you after that. Well, I guess you didn’t get it for some reason. 😢 Thank you for your prayers. God surely heard you, my friend.

      Delete
  12. Sooo thankful God has you enfolded in His embrace while you navigate this journey. Looking forward to gleaning much...

    ReplyDelete
  13. Well, holy shamoly! I sure didn't see that coming LOL! But, I'm happy if you two are happy and it sure sounds like you are :) Glad to see you're back, sweet friend. You're one of my favorite people. Now if I could only get my act in gear ;)

    xoxo
    rue

    ReplyDelete
  14. I love this story! I love that you took hardly nothing with you! I do have to confess I did GASP! The cutest home ever for such a short time. I, however, despise winter. It is depressing and dreary and can't do it either. But I didn't find a happy medium. I went for the AZ heat and 30 years later, I'm sweltering. I should be more where "Rue" above, lives. LOL. I follow her too. :) Oh, if I could have your little cottage here. It's no surprise it sold quickly! Well, FUN, I say! And so freeing! What an adventure!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ann, thank you for your sweet comment. Arizona is one of the states we considered in our move, but we couldn't agree on where. Dennis likes Sedona, but I wanted to go somewhere with a warmer winter. We could both agree on Texas, so here we are. As of this writing we are really enjoying it. Thanks, again, for sharing your thoughts. xo

      Delete
  15. It's so nice to hear your wonderful news. Wishing you all the best on your new adventure, as I look forward to your future posts. God bless!

    ReplyDelete
  16. Wow! That was fast! Good for you! I hope it will be everything you hope for! Will be interesting to take the new journey with you!

    ReplyDelete
  17. Replies
    1. Thank you so much, Ann. I’m happy to be here in your great state. xo

      Delete
  18. Omigosh! and after all that work, too! At least you'll be happier. This past winter just about killed me and I'm used to snow and cold. Enjoy your new digs!

    ReplyDelete
  19. I'm in shock too! Have kept picturing you in that darling red cottage all winter long..... and wondering how you were doing.. and picturing you having a blast at the markets and affaires around there.. but also picturing you in TONS of snow and wondering how you were liking it! Now I know. I hope you keep in touch with us all with your blog... I'll be anxious to see what your next adventure in life is. You are amazing to have gotten rid of all your "stuff".. I know you were already downsizing alot. I doubt I could do it.. too sentimental and hang onto things... I keep attempting it and little by little some of it has gone, been donated, sold, etc. but I still have way too much! Our house is small and is stuffed to the brim. Hubby and I don't ever yearn to just sell it all and take off.. we're homebodies.. but I like you, HATE the snow, gray and cold. We even now talk of leaving central Oregon where there's so much snow and cold.. to head to a warmer area, but probably along the coast where it's milder, but then... lots of gray days and wind! I want to stay in Oregon or SW Washington to be near my son. Did you do alot of research before arriving at the decision to move to Texas? I know you did when you left Colorado. What were your thought processes and how did you end up there (other than nicer/warmer weather?). Keep in touch.... I bet you two are super excited to begin this new adventure! Hugs.. Marilyn

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Texas has been on our radar for sometime. Dennis traveled here frequently when he was an architect, and later to visit artist friends in Fredericksburg. I visited Texas as a girl with my mother. We knew we wanted a warm climate in the winter, and there's no doubt that here we will experience that here. We chose this area because of its close proximity to major airports where our kids can fly in for visits. There are more reasons, but too many to enumerate here. I've always been a bit of a gypsy, and doubt at my age that will ever change. :)

      Delete
  20. Nancy I am astounded that you sold your beautiful little cottage but I completely understand. You deserve to be happy so I wish you and Dennis the best of everything in your new journey. God bless you both!
    Diane xo

    ReplyDelete
  21. Nancy! Good morning! I have missed you terribly but it's great to hear you've been planning and plotting a new adventure. It takes a lot of courage to move your life, doesn't it! We did it twice from California to Boston, from Boston to Minneapolis.

    I'm impressed that you would let go of a home you built and put so much time into. I understand however, the need to find another view. I personally don't want to move from Minneapolis though we too had a very rough winter. I wish you peace and happiness as you explore Texas. Moving at any age can bring so much perspective, challenging opportunities for growth and unexpected life lessons. Happy day my dear!

    ReplyDelete
  22. How exciting, but scary too. I would love to do what you all are doing now. We have 3 years til David retires and than we are off. We are not sure where we want to go, but I would love a warmer State. David likes the cold, so we will be comprising. We are talking about NC. Next year we plan on going to the places we would like to move to so it will not be a last minute thing. We are plannners. I admire what you are doing. We do plan on downsizing belongings and the size of or next home though. That I cannot wait for. Looking forward to your journey.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Dear Nancy ~ What an inspiration you are to me as I purge 'stuff' from my life. I wouldn't like the cold either so totally understand your moving.

    May you and Dennis have a continued, wonderful adventure.

    Love & hugs ~ FlowerLady

    ReplyDelete
  24. I wonder where you are in central Texas. We lived there and couldn't wait to get out! It will be miserable in the summer, I can tell you now. We are back to our four seasons in the Midwest, and we love it! (Minneapolis here too)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Currently we ‘re near San Antonio. “Miserable” in the summer beats freezing cold and gray skies in the winter every day and twice on Sunday for me. I grew up in the Midwest and I know how hot and miserable it can get there, too. And gray, sunless skies in the winter with blowing ice cold winds. Not for me. I’ve lived in 6 other states and I can tell you there’s no perfect place to live. We each need to find a place that suits us best, and that’s what makes the U.S. so unique. There are a plethora of choices. I’m glad you found happiness where you are. Life is too short to live in someplace you find miserable.

      Delete
  25. Stunned . . . was my first thought . . .
    Next . . . I want to do this . . .
    And then I started to think about what part of “I want to do this” do I REALLY want to do!

    Back to you and The Joy Filled Little Red Cottage . . .
    Living with weather that is not loved, I really get . . . it doesn’t take long before depression seaps through . . .
    I am reminded of myself thirty years ago . . . when my doorbell rang, persons introduced themselves and said, “would you want to sell your house.” And I said . . . “Well, I guess I might if the price is right.” A cash offer was made . . . I accepted and then I went “topsy turvy” . . . As I look back what I really liked is that it pushed me into gear, moved me forward, helped me feel resilience, strength, creativity . . . My story gets long after that. Suffice it to say it was busy, exciting, wonderful . . . One of my “hill top” learning experiences.

    As I remember that time in my life, and I learn now about you, the part that really resonants with me is that you did not bring “stuff” into this new adventure. (I took TOO MUCH STUFF, I didn’t know better I guess.). Oh there is always internal stuff” maybe that we carry with us . . . but I am talking about material stuff, those things we think we can’t live without. How very cleansing it must have been for you and Dennis . . .

    I love, loved your story, of your Joyfilled Red Cottage, amazed at your creative spirits and your sense of unity and team throughout. Charming in design inside, outside, all around.

    So very excited for you in this . . . your next chapter . . .
    I look forward to following along on your adventure . . .
    God’s Blessings to each of you . . .
    love
    lynne

    ReplyDelete
  26. WOW!! I am shocked but I totally understand and am excited for you both. I just can't get over that you sold everything and took only what fit in your vehicle. What a lesson in letting go and leaving things behind! I am ecstatic that you are going to be blogging again because I want to be part of your new adventure all along the way.

    ReplyDelete
  27. I lived in Austin for 5 years. The weather, ahhhh. Texans say they stay inside in summer in AC and go outside in winter when the weather is lovely. One year I planted flowers on Christmas Day! The bluebonnets are special. Austin has too many people and traffic galore but I'm sure you will find the perfect place. Carla (currently) in Kansas

    ReplyDelete
  28. Oh Nancy I got misty eyed when I read your post. You two remind me so much of Jim and I. We lived in sailboats, a two room tent, a 21 foot camper on the Intercoastal and many other adventures. I too am making another change in my housing and ministry. I so look forward to your blog and tips on how to live simply. I keep saying I would like to sell everything and start over, I have done that several times in the past, but I am afraid to since I am on my own. I like you hate cold weather but couldn't live in Texas, I need to be near water. I haven't blogged in a long time and don't know if I will again since I am getting back into a ministry with the poor but only time will tell.

    God bless you and Dennis in your new adventure. I hope you share some of how you went about purging everything, even if it is after the fact. Happy hugs my friend. Debbie

    ReplyDelete
  29. Oh my gosh Nancy. How exciting that you and Dennis are following your hearts and your faith in God. How wonderful God lead you to this new destination and is giving you peace. I am so happy you will be blogging again. I have missed you. Texas is hot in the summer but hey in the winter it is warm. I cannot wait to some day get out of the cold and expensive Illinois. My kids are keeping me here for now. I hope someday God will send us out to a new adventure in life. I am really just so happy for you Nancy. I also am not surprised your sweet cottage sold that quickly. It is a beautiful place and now it is time for it to have new owners. Happy Sunday. Enjoy the new week of new adventures ahead.
    xoxo
    Kris

    ReplyDelete
  30. Well. My goodness. That is a surprise. You definitely won't have to worry about snow down here - unless you move to the Panhandle which gets some crazy weather. Life is funny. It twists and turns even when you think you are headed straight into the sunset. I'm sure this will be a great adventure and, if you don't like where you end up, the same road that brought you there can take you somewhere else. I look forward to having you post more and hear about your new location and abode.

    ReplyDelete
  31. I'm happy for you and Dennis. Eager to hear more about your new adventures.

    ReplyDelete
  32. What I like about blogging, is that you are still around. Unlike when a neighbor moves.
    This is exciting and even more fun to experience with you!
    When we downsized, my motto was, “It’s easier to simplify then to organize “. Way to go!!

    ReplyDelete
  33. Hello Nancy,
    My Aunt and Uncle live in Caldwell Texas.
    I am excited for you and am looking forward to hearing more.

    Our son is graduating from HS at the end of May. He has made some big decisions I will have to share with you.
    Take Care,
    Carla

    ReplyDelete
  34. So happy you are back again! I've really missed your posts. Wishing you good luck with your new life. Can't wait to hear all about it.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Lucky us to get to follow along on another unfolding journey!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Joan. It's great to have people like you join me.

      Delete
  36. Well hello fellow Texan! My husband is a native Texan, but I am a native Californian who lived in Washington state for 7 years. I know how the NE winters can get you down when you don't see the sun for so long. Texas is a wonderful place to live. We've been in Texas since 2005. We first lived in Central Texas until we retired, then moved to the Texoma Lake area an hour north of Dallas. Texoma (Sherman/Denison) was number one on the Forbes Magazine's "Best Places To Retire" list a year or so ago. We have great winters, lots of water, less humidity, more hills and trees than other parts of Texas. Hope you get a chance to venture up to our part of Texas before you settle down completely. I'm going to enjoy seeing how y'all acclimate to your new environment. I truly loved your spirit of adventure when you picked up and left so quick. And was amazed how smart you were to unburden yourself of all the old stuff to really start anew.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for your warm welcome. It's nice to know a native Californian has found happiness in Texas. Don't know where you lived in California, but I lived in Southern California for 18 years and I have to say I loved the climate there. I'm not sure how far we'll roam from where we are right now. Dennis is rapidly connecting with the art community here. That's a big deal for us. We're really enjoying the environment here. Thanks for weighing in. xo

      Delete
  37. I wish you nothing but happiness in your new home state and in whatever cottage you land in next. Can't wait to follow along! xo

    ReplyDelete
  38. When I came back to my blog one of the first places I looked at was your site. I was very glad, then, to see this post today. You've made a huge leap, but it sounds like you two are more than 'up for it'. I look forward to following this new adventure.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Hello Nancy, it's good to hear from you and WOW what an adventure, good for you, I wish I had had the courage to follow my dreams years ago. Good luck in your new life, I look forward to hearing all about it x

    ReplyDelete
  40. WOW... I am blown away..... what a bold and very exciting move!!! Extremely courageous of both of you !!! Congrats on following your "New" dream !!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's a big change for us, Lisa, but one we were ready to make.

      Delete
  41. Wow, Nancy, holy smokes when you do something you don't do it halfway, do you!!! Congrats on taking such a big step and making a new life - I look forward to following along as you settle down in Texas!

    ReplyDelete
  42. I thought my life was pretty crazy but you take the cake :)
    Congratulations to you and Dennis for making this adventure and sharing it with us.

    ReplyDelete
  43. Nancy, I searched for people I had not heard from for some time, just this morning. Wow, So glad I found you and that you and Dennis are safe. What a move and big step. I truly wish you the very best. Blessings, xoxo, Susie

    ReplyDelete
  44. Oh Nancy, i was totally shocked reading this, yet I take my hat off to you dear. It’s always been a dream of mine to get brave and try something out of the ordinary l. This move of yours is a great out of the ordinary. Enjoying your journey. Will be looking forward to where you plant yourself.
    Sending you beautiful thoughts your way.
    Let each day inspire you dearly

    Xx
    Dore

    ReplyDelete
  45. Well, knock me over with a feather! Best of luck on your new and exciting life! I'll be following along!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, Laurel. I'll be happy to have you along on the journey. xo

      Delete
  46. Wow Nancy! I never saw this coming at all, but I understand how difficult it is to endure days of gray days! How amazing that you were able to move without bringing along all the mementos of life, and to just see what the Lord has on your horizon! Now I wonder from the picture if you are somewhere between San Antonio and Kerrville, or perhaps even out close to the Llano area... beautiful area with amazing shows of bluebonnets! Our daughter was born in San Antonio, and my husband a native Texan... and my family lives in San Antonio... so who knows, maybe sometime we are down to visit, we might actually get to meet up, wouldn't that be something! I love living in Idaho, and there is much to love about Texas too though. Looking forward to more posts from you about your new life in Texas... much love to you sweet friend!

    ReplyDelete
  47. Well, welcome to central Texas!!! Keep us posted on your whereabouts!
    Blessings to you,
    J

    ReplyDelete
  48. Nancy, you are my hero! This is amazing! And I'm so happy for you. A brand new start and no clutter. Wow. That's all I have. Wow.
    Amalia
    xo

    ReplyDelete
  49. Oh, my goodness! We have had computer issues, and somehow I didn't see your last post! I was so shocked to read it today and am so thankful you mentioned it in your latest post so I could go back and read it. It is sad to me to think of you leaving your beautiful, little red house, but it is just wonderful to hear you sounding so happy in your new place. The beauty along your walking path is just breathtaking! It was so nice to see a post from you today. You may like my new blog called "Biblical Minimalism". I am writing it as I write the Bible Study Accompaniment Guide to my book, Biblical Minimalism. I am delving into all aspects of life and how much needs to be minimized in order to follow Jesus and the way He lived His life on earth. You are surely living that life, sweet friend. It is so admirable to see how unattached you are to the things of this earth. God bless you always!

    ReplyDelete
  50. Nancy, email me and let me know where you are going. Central Texas...Waco? The Hill Country?

    ReplyDelete
  51. This is another interesting adventure you are on- Nancy. It must be wonderful to feel that freedom that letting go brings.

    ReplyDelete
  52. Wow! What a change! But all you have to do is get through the summers, and the rest of the year is usually okay in the southwest, and it is not nearly as hot as some other spots. I hope you are feeling better.
    I've been away from blogging too, though I do instagram, but not that much lately. People have other things that happen in life, and sometimes we just have to deal with them in quiet. I've been working on my writing this past year, learned French, to the level I know Spanish, but my Spanish is so much better. I read some really heavy books. So much to learn and do. I really enjoyed your last post. It was really written from the heart and brought me there. xoxo Su

    ReplyDelete
  53. I am starting over in smal apartment
    Brought only memorabilia and cmas ornaments
    Few items
    Less is better at this age

    ReplyDelete

Your comments bring me joy! Thanks for stopping by.