Starting the new Homestead

[Deberosa]

I haven't had time to post much lately - mostly closing out the old and planning for the new around here.

I thought I would start a thread to post progress since the trek across country begins in less than a week!!!!

I'll post progress here as I go along since people have been asking me for updates.

Today, Friday the 13th things are looking pretty good. Two people are already very interested and are working up offers for Deberosa I. Deberosa II has bypassed the "gravel road" snag and now there is the settling of the inspection issues remaining. Appraisal next week and with any luck a closing date of APril 1. New job starts March 30th.

This weekend I finish packing and then we are going to take a drive and post the sale fliers everywhere we can in case the first two offers don't come through. Two more days of work, then final prep for the trip. Dogs will need all of their shots plus heartworm medication since they will now be in an area with heartworm. I got a nice ramp for my elderly basset hound to make it into the back of the truck for the trip! Jake will ride shotgun for the distance.

It's the first steps in a huge adventure that at this point has great promise. All of the new things I want to learn:
Rain catchment systems
Solar systems
a whole new planting schedule and varieties
Sources for new "stuff"
And much much more!!!

Oh yeah - and I have yet to see Deberosa II in person for the first time!!!

Hope I don't bore you all - if so just tell me to shut up. ;-)

Debbie

[cmdan]

Good luck with your new homestead, trip and everything else you are going through. So the adventure begins! I look forward to hearing the details.

[firegirl969]

I look forward to hearing tales of your adventures. God Speed on the moving trip!

[flatwater]

To bad you could not have come up Spokane way we would have liked to have met you. God bless you on your new adventure

[Deberosa]

Today we finished packing the tools in the garage. It's pouring rain out so won't get to the pump house and wood shed. We also ran out of boxes so called Walmart to pick more up in the morning. They restock shelves on Saturday nights and will save boxes for you if you ask and pick them up early in the morning.

Tonight our friend who is also our realtor invited us over for dinner. He didn't know what to make so I gave him home grown smoked turkey and green beans and apple juice to cook the turkey in. What a deal to have someone else cook it!


I cooked up the last of the home grown bacon and fresh eggs for breakfast. The last of the chickens have been captured and will be going soon. It seems very empty around here!

Measured the green house to see if it might fit on the truck. It will but only sideways, meaning it will have to be loaded empty. We'll see if that's possible if I don't get a good offer. The other alternative is to sell it.

[Deberosa]

Today we woke up to a snow storm!!! Got 4 inches before it turned to the pouring rain that is happening now. Even in that horrible weather we had a visitor to check out the house! Retired couple from Oregon in a huge truck and camper saw the sign and stopped in. I gave them a quick tour of the place and they may be back.

We went around to all of our hangouts and posted fliers for the property. Went to Evergreen State College and posted fliers and found a person at the Organic Farm and gave them a pile of fliers to get the word out. This is the perfect "Greener" home. ;-)

Also got supplies for the animal transportation. Cage for the cats and "calming" cookies for dogs and cats! Big knuckle bone for Martha to work on along the way and watering containers for everyone. I set up the cage in the living room and put the cats food in it and some toys. They have already been in it checking it out and eating so that's good.

Now it's just counting down the days. 7 day forcast for the first part of the trip looks like clear sailing. Met a trucker in the hardware store who said the trick in driving east is to get behind one storm and keep moving and you will stay ahead of the next storm all the way. He hated the trip west though!

[12vman]

If I woulda put that over there.. :-/

What if I woulda made those a little bigger.. ???

Man.. That didn't work very well.. >:(

Hindsight is 20-20. Deberosa I was a gold mine in experience. Deberosa II is just going to be better!

I know if I had to do it again, things around here would be different..

Good luck to you and the other half. Keep us updated!

Don

[SPIKE]

I think it was 2006 when I joined this forum. Reading about your developments with Deberosa I was always one of the things I looked forward to. I look forward to the adventures with II.

12V man is right on, seems there are always things that I wish I had done a bit different.

Have a safe trip. When you get to the intersection of I 64 and I 57 in Illinois, wave toward west TN which will be due south.

I do wish you were going to be coming closes, as I would loved to buy you a cup of coffee or lunch or something.

SPIKE

[bee_pipes]

If you should ever take I-40 through Tennessee on one of your crossings, you may find a few friends with the light on for you.

Regards,
Pat

[TNDadx4]

Definitely, please keep posting. I also would like to read of your ongoing adventure.

I also second the sentiment from the guys... would love to buy y'all lunch if you ever come across Mid-TN.

[Anon001]

Maybe after they go through St. Louis, MO, you can convince them to drop down through Tennessee? Or you could all carpool and drive north and meet them along I-70? lol

[Deberosa]

Hmm. this is possible.... I've been studying the maps and I'll see if I can go south after St Louis and head across Tennesee...

[flatwater]

Watch it now Deberosa , be careful , you being a northerner , if ya spend to much time with them Tennesee boys you'll be driving slower and stringing out your words and you'll be saying yall a lot. of course that might be good practice to where your headed ;D

[Deberosa]

Watch it now Deberosa , be careful , you being a northerner , if ya spend to much time with them Tennesee boys you'll be driving slower and stringing out your words and you'll be saying yall a lot. of course that might be good practice to where your headed ;D

Well people around here think I drive slow already! And I do need to practice that Y'all. ;-)

I can change my route easy enough if anyone is interested in meeting - it would be down 55 to Dyersburg then down to rt 40 to cross Tenessee. PM me if you are up for a visit!

Today was LONNNNGGGG! Finishing up work. Had to fax a bunch of stuff to the bank and while I was there managed to lock the keys in the truck. >:( AAA rescued me in short order.

Tomorrow is my last day of work, then two days to prep for the trip!

[CarolAnn]

Debbie -
You need a book called "Southern Speak for Yankees" (if it existed!)
The main thing is to forget everything you ever knew about vowels and drop your 'g"s.

Southern "A" = Ah-eee
Southern "E" = Ah-eee (no kidding!)
Southern "I" = AH (Yankee "I" = EYE-eee)
Southern "O" = ah-o
Southern "U" = Valley Girl "Ewwwww"

Now slow it down and chew it.
Don't chuckle when someone says, "Yew shore dew have a funny ack-see-int!" or they may not take it kindly! ;)

[SPIKE]

Beepipes and TNDadx4,

Is there a place that would work for us all to meet at one time?
I am in Carroll county, about 35 miles north of Jackson. I have a good idea where Beepipes is located, but I am not sure how much further east you are TNDadx4.

Lately, most days I can adjust my schedule to make a drive.

Let me know what you guys think.

Deberosa,
When you get to either Dyersburg or Jackson, you will be about 35 miles from my place. Do you have an approx. date you will make it to this area?

SPIKE

[TNDadx4]

I am South and East of Nashville, still a bit from you. I'm not sure how that would work out.

Deberosa: Sorry to hear about the key incident. For me, it would depend on the day (wife and 2 kids are currently sick). I'd have to see if my wife is up for a drive.

Flatwater and CarolAnn: I'm sure that she'd fit in right fine 'roun' c'here :)


Edited for clarity

[stilltryinat50]

Hey Deb, either the D'burg exit or the I-40 exit at Jackson will work for me if is OK for you and the others.....if it is on one of my days off work. Let us know...looking forward to meeting you.

There is also an exit close to Parsons and has the I-40 Truck stop for Bee-Pipes.

Or if y'all want to just go to Parsons exit, it would give me an extra reason to go on down and visit my family too. I was born and raised around there lol.

[Deberosa]

Wow - this is great!

I've been playing around with Yahoo maps and came up with the following schedule that I think is very doable.

Leave Friday Afternoon (after basset hound gets her bath!)

Friday Night - Pendleton, OR (5 hour drive)
Saturday - target Ogden , UT (7.5 hour drive)
Sunday - target Denver and visit friends there(7.5 hour drive)
Monday - target Topeka and visit that afternoon/evening with PaulinKS (8 hour drive)
Tuesday target Jackson, TN (8.5 hour drive so visit either Tuesday night or Wed morning).
Wed get to Radford!! (8 hour drive).

I don't want to do more than 8 hours a day with all of the animals to care for and take breaks with. Hopefully I'll have WiFi in the places I stay - most places have that now!

Sure works out great that way!

So if you find a good place either Tuesday night or Wed morning anywhere in western Tennessee I'll be able to meet "ya'll". ;-)

[RvrBttmHillBilly]

where are y'all at in tennessee? i'm in mcnairy county ;D

[stilltryinat50]

Hey RvrBttmHillBilly, how close are you to Coffee Bottom? That area is really growing....

[Anon001]

........and if there are any others in Kansas within driving distance of Topeka, come meet with us! Debbie or I, either one, can let ya know where we're meeting... I would certainly like to meet others and when I meet Debbie, it would be a great time to get to meet others as well.

[Deberosa]

........and if there are any others in Kansas within driving distance of Topeka, come meet with us! *Debbie or I, either one, can let ya know where we're meeting... I would certainly like to meet others and when I meet Debbie, it would be a great time to get to meet others as well.


Yes that would be great! ANd are you bringing Rufus? Jake loves to visit to!

THe two possible buyers aren't going to be able to do funding but tonight we were at the realtor's home for dinner and the phone rang - it was someone who picked up the flyer at Deberosa and wanted to see it so he told them to go on in and look around! What a coincidence!

I tested out the ramp for Martha the aging basset hound and she went up and down it just fine. Tomorrow they go in for their shots, including Kennel Cough in case they need to be boarded for a few days, new rabies and heart worm since we are now headed for heart worm territory. THen they will be ready to go.

Went to GoodWill and bought all of their blankets and rugs to put in the bed of the truck for Martha.

Lunch and dinner with friends to say goodbye- those are really hard times because we have made close friends here.

One friend wrote a story to give to me about my stolen boat experience from years ago - it brings a smile to remember that again. Oh, and at the local book store I was able to rent several books on tape. She said to just mail them back as I finish them!

It's getting down to the wire now!

[WileyCoyote]

Darnit, Deb, you'll miss me by about 500 miles South on the Denver to Topeka run! :'( Oh, well, have a good trip, and hope Deberosa I sells FAST!

[Anon001]

Yes that would be great! *ANd are you bringing Rufus? *Jake loves to visit to! *



I would but he refuses to ride... lol I can put him in the back and as soon as I start it, Rufus goes flying out and high tails it and runs under the house and won't come back out for awhile. lol

The old dog, Dog, always loved riding with me. But, now that he is blind, it scares him.

Paul

[RvrBttmHillBilly]

hey stilltryinat50, if you're talking about coffee landing on the river, i'm about 20 miles from there. and it is growing, alot of transplants with too much disposable income, gettin harder and harder to fish over there thanks to the jet skis, sppedboats and cabin cruisers

[Deberosa]

I would but he refuses to ride... lol *I can put him in the back and as soon as I start it, Rufus goes flying out and high tails it and runs under the house and won't come back out for awhile. lol

The old dog, Dog, always loved riding with me. *But, now that he is blind, it scares him.

Paul

Jake was the same way - had to drag him into the truck to take him to the vet for shots. He hated it, so we forced him a couple of times. Now he HAS to go everywhere with us! He rides in the middle (on this trip shotgun!) and looks for cows. ;-) Goes crazy pointing at cows. HEHE That should keep him busy for the trip.

[Deberosa]

Darnit, Deb, you'll miss me by about 500 miles South on the Denver to Topeka run! *:'( *Oh, well, have a good trip, and hope Deberosa I sells FAST!


Yeah didn't want to risk the northern route this time of year, although it looks like I will luck out with the weather for this trip.

[WileyCoyote]

Can't blame you there! But this 'winter' looks to be pretty mild - although I am NOT trusting it enuff to put my plants out yet! I was told that here, the first week of MAy, they had a snowstorm that isolated the town for 5 days last year. Killed off most peoples' gardens. So I might plant SOME stuff in a few weeks - everythings' popping up in the trays, including some seeds from 2004! - but not ALL.

Good thing you're moving early in the year; you'll still have time to plant when you get there.

[flatwater]

Debs If your going to listen to tapes on your way , be careful. I listened to one on a long trip once and I got cought up in it and ran a red light in a canadian town and broke their speed limit by 10 miles an hour. I finally had to take the ear phones off. ;D

[Deberosa]

Thanks for the advice Flatwater!

The truck is packed. I'll take pictures before I leave. The cats are harnessed and in their cage on one side. Jake's crate filled with food and animal supplies is on the other side along with Martha's ramp folded up and a post pounder to put up a quick dog run when I get there.

So to load Martha I pull the ramp out and set it up, then put the crate over to the side of the tail gate. Load Martha to the whole area in the front of the bed covered with thrift store blankets. THen put the crate and ramp back. The cat pen is covered with a couple of blankets and my suitcase is on top of it. Other stuff stuck in cracks as available! In the cab behind the seat I have my rifles layered with coats and my box of important papers and seeds. On the floor of the passenger side will be my computer and some more clothes with a blanket over it and the seat making a platform for Jake.

THen in every nook and cranny I plan to put Kitchen items to get started with and boots, etc. There is not a spare cubic inch!

I was going to leave tomorrow afternoon but I think instead I will leave early Saturday morning instead of starting out tired. Tomorrow Martha gets a good bath to be ready for the trip and I will make one more pass of the place to make sure all is ready - my last look at Deberosa...

I plan a stop in Topeka and a stop in Jackson, TN - I'll be in touch!

Debbie

[Anon001]

Here's to a safe trip.......

[Kyhome]

Be safe an enjoy every minute of your trip.

[TNDadx4]

Have a safe trip and a fun adventure!

[Lady_b]

Wishing you a safe adventure and looking forward to hearing about it!

[Deberosa]

Thanks everyone! I'll be posting here when I can. I plan on leaving early tomorrow morning. I just could not get everything done that needed to get done and the extra 5 hours I would gain can be made up along the way.

Martha is nice and clean and in the house for the first time in a long time. It's pouring pouring pouring rain. At some point I need to walk Kurt around so he can gather up the bits and pieces I did not get to.

The one cat is doing fine - just sitting in the cage and the other one is having fits. He's scattered litter and food all over! I am going to pull out the tray - thank goodness it has a tray and take out all food, just giving them a little at a time. I am going to empty the water bowl while on the move too because it makes a mess. Good lessons from the dry run over night!

Kurt got me a big mag flashlight that is like a club. Also sharpened up a good knife. He wants me to be safe. I hope the house sells quickly so he can join me in VA and we can start building again together.

[humbug]

Deb...what an exciting time. Be safe in your travels.

[Deberosa]

In between rain storms we have managed to get the cats rearranged. No steady supply of food and water and moved the litter box to the back. Cleaned up the mess. Found out why one cat is so mellow. The other cat pulled everything into the cage he could reach with his paws. THis included an entire bag of Kitty Calming Treats!!! They were torn open and one cat obviously consumed a large amount of them! The other cat is calming down now too so I think he got his share! Glad there are a few bags still left so this may get easier!

I'll put water and food in the cage at night and take it up before heading out in the morning THis will work much better!

Sun was also out long enough to take one last walk around Deberosa. Seeing things sprouting and looking one last time at all of the projects here. Sigh.. THey picked up the last of the Dark Cornish chickens. Only two guineas and two peacocks remain.

We went out to eat one last time and on the way back the sky cleared for a final look at the entire snow covered Olympic mountain range. Always an impressive site!

Things are now winding down for the final packing for tomorrow morning's departure.

Debbie

[Deberosa]

Got as far as Caldwell, Idaho today. Got a late start at 9:00 AM and going is a bit slow with the animals - lots more stops and Jake is not used to doing his business while on a leash - heck he's not even used to a leash! Martha has got the drill down pretty good.

Only bad weather were bands of heavy showers that slowed progress but no hint of snow - YEAH!

Looks like I won't make Topeka till Tuesday mid day because I don't think I'll hit Denver till Monday Mid day. No sense pushing it at this point. I'll know more tomorrow of course.

The sellers of the house have alot of judgements on it that they didn't quite disclose. Lawyers were working today on negotiating payoffs. I remain cautiously optomistic that closing can happen at this point with alot of give and take on both sides... We really want this place so we'll do what we can to cooperate.


Debbie

[Anon001]

Looks like I won't make Topeka till Tuesday mid day because I don't think I'll hit Denver till Monday Mid day. *No sense pushing it at this point. *I'll know more tomorrow of course.

Take your time... no need to rush.

The sellers of the house have alot of judgements on it that they didn't quite disclose. *Lawyers were working today on negotiating payoffs. *I remain cautiously optomistic that closing can happen at this point with alot of give and take on both sides... *We really want this place so we'll do what we can to cooperate.

I'm sure they will get it all taken care of, but it could delay your closing.... When I bought this place the closing was to be 30 days but the owner didn't have her ducks in a row and it took her 60 days to be able to close.... but that was okay with me.

Looking forward to Tuesday....... if anyone else wants to meet, I am meeting Debbie in Topeka as she comes through.... PM me for details and we can all meet.

Paul


Debbie[/quote]

[WileyCoyote]

Hang in there, Debbie!

We were supposed to close on our homestead last year on the 12th of May. So we loaded up the cars, and drove out to spend a week in a motel until things were signed off, and scheduled the moving truck to arrive the following day. Well, the appraiser finally turned his report in to the bank on the 8th of May. He refused to release the house unless some things were 'taken care of' - like alligatored paint on the front porch floor... he overlooked things like plaster that had stripped away from one whole 12 foot section of basement wall, and concentrated on the 'cosmetic' things. So that week we were supposed to spend waiting we were at the house every day from sunup to sundown, sanding and painting!!! When the movers arrived as scheduled, the owner (unbeknownst to the bank) let us move our stuff in... two weeks later the papers were finally signed off!

Hope you are away from Denver and much further east by Monday/Tuesday. The panhandle of NE and Southern SD are under a winter storm watch/blizzard watch, as the rain is scheduled to turn to snow west of the Rockies starting Monday night. Here they are talking 6-12 inches accumulation, with 45 mph winds, ice and blowing snow. Watch that black ice!

[Deberosa]

It's been a looooonnnggg day!

Left Caldwell early but hit snow just before Twin Falls - heavy snow and slush. I pulled off for a couple of hours, grabbed something to eat. Talked to some state troopers and they said it would clear in an hour and they were right - turned to rain and the slush was plowed off. I was left with just driving in pouring rain most of the day until Little America, WY. Temps hovered at 36 degrees - glad the truck has a thermometer!

Once it got dry I decided to get as many miles as possible in and got as far as Rawlins. It's trying to rain here and cold and windy - of course WY is always cold and windy! I hope to turn south at Cheyenne and get to Denver to meet my old time frield there tomorrow. I hope I miss the snow. I've crossed the continental divide so that might help - it's mostly downhill now.

I found that 511 on the cell phone gives pretty good road condition reports that are up to date so I'll use that the rest of the trip.

Poor Jake is depressed cooped up on the truck seat. That added to the fact that there are no cows in WY for him to find, although an Antelope crossed the road in front of me as I drove into the hotel! Jake missed that in the dark plus he was lying down sleeping. Martha seems to be adjusting much better as she trundles up and down her ramp out of the back of the truck. The cats are still complaining mightily!

I hope to find out more about the house tomorrow. Kurt reports the weather is nice in WA - go figure!!! I must have a cloud over me! My truck is covered with road gunk...

Well, it's getting late and I am really tired!

Debbie

[Deberosa]

Thank you for your post Wiley! Before crashing I took one last look at the weather forcasts in WY. Turns out that blizzard was to hit CHeyenne at 5:00 AM today! I went rigtht out and checked out and kept driving! Best Western didn't charge me either when I told them I needed to beat the blizzard.

Ended up in Longmont, CO at midnight and crashed but no snow, just cloudy here - yeah! I could have been stuck a couple days if I had stayed in Rawlins. Either that or have one of those lovely white knuckly drives!

So on to meet my friend in Denver today that I haven't seen in 10 years.

Debbie

[huntress4203]

Hang in there Deb. Finally found my way back to BH to watch your progress. Hope you have a good day.

Glo

[SPIKE]

From "I'm really tired" to, we better get a bit further down the road NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!

That's what I call

"Intestinal Fortitude"

SPIKE

[Deberosa]

Yes SPIKE - it was a challenge to crawl back in that truck last night!!! *I did miss the blizzard though - yeah!

Gloria, Martha is still nice and clean!

Now I am in Russell Kansas. *Had a nice visit with my friend and was VERY glad to get back out of Denver. *Boy do I know why I left!

THe wind was tremendous all the way through Colorado and Kansas. *The storm skirted just to the north of I 70 all the way though so that was good! *I had dry pavement all the way today for once! *Wiley you must have gotten pounded where you are!

Jake still won't eat so I got him a double hamburger and he did eat that. ;-) *Stopped at a road side rest to the east of Russell for the dogs and watched a huge lighting storm all along the eastern horizon. *Hmmm. *Well I drove on *- no lodging at next couple of exits so I turned back and decided to spend the night in Russell instead of risking running into that storm.

I passed on stopping to see the 6 legged steer and various other cool things along the way just to push forward. ;-)

Oh one other milestone is that Jake smelled his first Skunk! Was driving along and all of a sudden he bolts upright and starts sniffing the air. ;-) He's also been on cow watch all day - there weren't too many but when there were some they filled a field and he would go crazy. ;-)


Paul, I'll give you a call in the morning but should hit Topeka for a late breakfast early lunch from what I can tell but you never know with the weather though!

[Anon001]

Well y'all....., I met Debbie in Topeka today at 1:00pm for a somewhat late lunch. We met at a place just off I-70 called Annie's Place. It was a nice little place. We both had the "Quiche of the Day" (no jokes! LOL) which was tomato and bacon and was really good. We sat and visited for a little over 2 hours. It was very nice.

Debbie was not at all what I expected... lol But she was nice, enjoyable, pleasant, and knowledgeable. In her own words (sorta) she said that she is proof an old woman can start late and build a homestead. I have no idea what she meant by "old woman" because she sure seemed younger than me (LOL) and I'll be 48 next month.

It was nice to share experiences of where we've been and how we got to where we are in life. I believe Kurt is one lucky man and has a fine lady.

Anyway... I am certainly glad I drove the 70 miles round trip to meet. I envy her for getting to stop on a cross country trip meeting other homesteaders. I would love to do that.

She left Topeka, Kansas a little after 3. She needed to get past Kansas City before rush hour and it would be about an hour (?) to get to Kansas City. She said she wanted to get all the way through Missouri before stopping for the night, but I told her it was at least a good 5 to 6 hour drive from Kansas City to St. Louis once she got to the east side of Kansas City. So, she said she may stop before she gets to St. Louis.

Anyway, for those of you in Tennessee that she is meeting that haven't met her, you are in for a treat.

Also, I got to meet Jake, Martha, and the cats. Martha cracked me up. Jake was just as sweet as could be and not only wanted to be petted but when I went to pet him, he returned it by rubbing his head on my hand like he was "petting" me back... He could win my heart. Come to find out, he and my old blind dog are the same. Both of them had mothers that were Blue Heelers and their fathers were Australian Shepherds.

Now that I've sucked up, I think I'll go read the new postings! lol

Debbie, I enjoyed the visit very much. Thanks for taking the time to stop and visit. My only regret is that Kurt wasn't with you. I would like to have met you both.

Be safe and careful and I look forward to seeing more pics of Deberosa II and hearing about it.

Paul

[huntress4203]

Debbie was probably the first homesteader friend I had when I moved here to WA from MD 5 years ago. She had just bought Deberosa 1 and I have been able to watch her build it over the last few years. I'm going to miss having her near.

Glo :'(

[Deberosa]

Gee thanks guys!

I also enjoyed my visit with Paul today - he has incredible experience in building his homestead using solar for power and rain water instead of a well - wow!! He also has a hard earned lesson in propane wow!

Not only that he has great ideas on how to make money either from the homestead or the internet. I wish we could have visited longer!

Gloria and Jim are getting married next week! When I first moved to Deberosa Jim came over and bucked up a few cedar trees that I had felled around the house. He and Glo felt so bad about driving their truck into my brushy area - but in reality that became the start of a path to the front of the property that with the help of the tractor, chickens and pigs is now a nice road to the front pasture! In hindsight I probably should have saved some of that cedar to make lumber but that was before I learned more about homesteading so I'll take that lesson to Deberosa II. It still heated the house for a couple of years so it wasn't a loss for sure.

I was also very very glad I turned around the night before to stay in Russell instead of Salinas because as I passed through Salinas this morning I saw what the wind can do in that part of the world. That storm I saw on the horizon tossed one tractor trailer rig on it's side in the median and another tractor trailer rig it pushed sideways down into the median. You could see the tire marks that went sideways!!!

After meeting with Paul I raced toward Kansas city. I didn't entirely miss Rush hour but not too bad. THen I had a decision to make again! I decided to shoot for St Louis to get through it tonight instead of dealing with rush hour tomorrow. So here I sit - 10 miles south of St Louis on route 55.

Jake has been a real trooper - still pointing out cows although there aren't that many around here! He also is developing a taste for those plain double burgers and drinking water from a cup in the cup holder on the truck. ;-) In all the animals are doing fairly well considering the ordeal!


I see from the map that I am 5 hours from Jackson TN so I should be there around 1:00 PM. I will PM Stilltryinat50, SPIKE and bee-pipes with my cell number and if you are interested in meeting give me a call and suggest a place! I would like to get a bit past Jackson by tomorrow night so I can get to Radford mid day THursday to check out Deberosa II!

Right now it's time for some much needed SLEEP!

[jen_in_southtexas]

Deb,

I am so happy for you. I like road trips like the one you are on right now. What a treat to get to meet fellow BWH'rs! When I was moving back home to Texas from Californy, I took my sweet time coming home just takin' it all in.

I am praying for you and your animal's safety on the road. Keep us posted!

-jen

[Anon001]

hey, Debbie,
Hope you got a good night's rest and a good start to the day. It's a good thing you didn't hold off on your trip for another 3 or 4 days. Looking at the radar, the western 1/3 of Kansas is getting snow today and we are forecasted for snow this weekend, Friday and Saturday and again next week. lol

Paul

[bee_pipes]

Jackson Tennessee Contingent Turns Out to Greet Migrant Homesteader
http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk217/patandkaren/deberosa.jpg
pictured left-to-right: Michael (SPIKE), Deb (StillTryingAt50), The Elf Herself (Deberosa), Pat (Bee_Pipes). Picture courtesy of Karen (Bee_Pipes' sweet bride)

Had a great lunch with the crew and was glad to place a few faces with names and hear some stories. Gave Deb the best advice possible fro navigating Nashville, but we broke up at 1430 and she will probably catch rush hour. Good news is that if she clears Knoxville, it will be all down hill - she is very near to the home stretch.

She has probably started something - there may be more gatherings in the future. Spike is a real card, Deb is sharp as a tack - the woman has been into agriculture and livestock up to her elbows. Deberosa - you just gotta like someone that laughs that much - good attitudes are very catchy. We had a waitress that must have recently lost her job in stand-up comedy - the restaurant and meal were almost as entertaining as meeting everyone.

Regards,
Pat

[Kyhome]

Deb glad your trip is going as well as planned. Thanks folks for sharing the stories and pictures. Rick

[jen_in_southtexas]

What an awesome time ya'll must've had! That pic brought a big smile to my face. It was almost like seeing ol' friends again. I would have loved meetin' all of ya'll.

Deb, I am glad that your trip is going well. Keep us posted.

Prayin' for a safe arrival.

-Jen

[Anon001]

Dang.... It sure makes me wish there had been more that met with us in Topeka. I know y'all had a great time... I am so envious of Debbie's cross country trip and meeting other homesteaders.

Paul

[stilltryinat50]

What a blast we had! Really wished we could have had more time and poor Deb could have been rested ( altho you sure couldn't tell it). She seems to have boundless energy.

Was so nice to meet you all and look forward to the next time ( including Lisa and Kurt).

Deb

p.s. Debbie, the sushi later was great....

[Deberosa]

Pat, you forgot Jake in the picture! Still fascinated with something on your knee! Thank you Karen for taking the picture for us.

I am truely humbled by the hospitality all of you have shown on this journey of mine. Driving such long distances to chat for a few hours. It's made this trip truly special for me.

I made it to about 100 miles west of Knoxville. I goofed up Nashville but had virtually no traffic so that was good! I decided to take 840 around the city disregarding the little dotted line on the map. ;)

Got about 8 miles in on an 8 lane freeway with no traffic and it ENDED!!!! OK back to the map.... Turn north, then 96 east then hit 65 east back to the "rest" of 840. Simple enough except the signs to 65 took me through half of the Tennessee countryside! Lot's of cows for Jake to see though so that's good!

Glad to hear the sushi was good Deb, wish I could have joined you!

THis is so different than when I got to Washington not knowing a soul 10 years ago. Our meeting was like a get together of old friends. Glenda the waitress was a scream! She was the one with boundless energy!

Mike and Lisa gave me a cool grapevine wreath to decorate - it will have a place of honor in my new home to remind me of my new start.

I am so excited about tomorrow seeing Deberosa II for the first time!!! Less than 5 hours left on the road. ANd best of all the motel I stopped at tonight allows dogs in the room!!! So Jake gets to hang out with me tonight.

The Star Hotel - the AMERICAN OWNED sign drew me in. ;-) That plus it's got the most comfortable leather recliner I've ever sat in!

[AlchemyAcres]

Jackson Tennessee Contingent Turns Out to Greet Migrant Homesteader

pictured left-to-right: Michael (SPIKE), Deb (StillTryingAt50), The Elf Herself (Deberosa), Pat (Bee_Pipes). Picture courtesy of Karen (Bee_Pipes' sweet bride)

Had a great lunch with the crew and was glad to place a few faces with names and hear some stories. Gave Deb the best advice possible fro navigating Nashville, but we broke up at 1430 and she will probably catch rush hour. Good news is that if she clears Knoxville, it will be all down hill - she is very near to the home stretch.

She has probably started something - there may be more gatherings in the future. Spike is a real card, Deb is sharp as a tack - the woman has been into agriculture and livestock up to her elbows. Deberosa - you just gotta like someone that laughs that much - good attitudes are very catchy. We had a waitress that must have recently lost her job in stand-up comedy - the restaurant and meal were almost as entertaining as meeting everyone.

Regards,
Pat


Great pic!
It's very cool that you all got to meet!

~Martin :)

[SPIKE]

I would like to thank Debbie, Deb, Pat and Karen for the most delightful afternoon meeting. It really made my day. I think we all wished we had more time. It is Deberosa's fault, but I am sure glad she made the time to travel through Tennessee.
I hope I did not talk tooooooo much!!!

Three different employees of the restaurant stopped at the table and said that it sounded like we were having a good time. I am not sure if they believed me when I told them we had never met each other before! LOL

All you BWHers out there;
If you get the chance to meet some of the other posters from here, take the oportunity. I am not a real people person, but this was like seeing old friends!
I do not recall the first awkward moment that sometimes comes with meeting someone for the first time.

PaulNKS
The way we heard it was, that we all missed out by not meeting you!

Deberosa,
Took 840!! BWAAAAHAHAHAHAHA LMAO
IF TN. WOULD JUST FINISH THAT ROAD!!!!!!!!!!!
I have made several run from my place to the Atlanta area. Many time trying to bypass Nashville some how. It would be so easy if they would just finish 840. I too have been that way and had to figure out, okay which way do I go now!
I hope Deberosa II is all you hope for and I look forward to meeting Kurt. He must be okay if he is hanging with you.

I hope Pat is right, I hope this was the start of something that shall continue.

SPIKE

[Anon001]

I am not sure if they believed me when I told them we had never met each other before! *LOL
Spike,
When I got to "Annie's Place", the restaurant we met at, I didn't know if Debbie was there yet. When I went in, I told the hostess I was meeting someone named Debbie. She said there were two women nearby, but I thought she meant at one table. So, I said that wouldn't be them (since I knew Debbie was traveling alone with the four furry friends). So the hostess asked what she looked like. I told her I had no idea because we'd never met. LOL She cocked her head sideways and in the old "valley girl" dumbfounded look, with scrunched squinting eyes..... Then I hear "Paul?" and Debbie, stood up and had been sitting right there and overheard! lol.... I turned to the waitress and said, "Oh, I found her." lol I don't thing the hostess ever understood any of it lol.

All you BWHers out there;
If you get the chance to meet some of the other posters from here, take the oportunity. I am not a real people person, but this was like seeing old friends!
I do not recall the first awkward moment that sometimes comes with meeting someone for the first time.

Same here. I will definitely do it again if given the chance. I'm hoping now that we can meet Kurt as he treks across country! LOL I am basically very timid, so I did at first feel somewhat awkward... but only for a moment until she said she had ordered lunch without waiting on me! LOL But, almost immediately I felt like I was sitting with a friend. It was odd in a way that I don't normally feel with a first time meeting. Like you Spike, I don't get around people much. I leave home about once a week, and that is about it.[/quote]

PaulNKS
The way we heard it was, that we all missed out by not meeting you!

She was lying about me? :'( LOL... I'm flattered, but I'm just me... an average lazy a** joe!... lol

I hope Pat is right, I hope this was the start of something that shall continue.
I agree. Maybe it will be... Or should I say that it should be the start of something....

Paul

[TSJ]

Paul, you need to start a daily journal if you haven't already done so, and then put it on a blog. I would enjoy reading your stuff. There are a number of free blogs available to post your writing and photos. Then, reference your blog in your posts here so we will know where to go look.

Not to be morbid, but I would like to know what happened with your propane accident and what you would have done differently if you could have.

Also, I think you have barely scratched on what you know about cattle, etc.

If you start your own website, there are a number of advertising possibilities where you can make a tidy little income if you draw enough readership. I know of one website where a guy writes about building your own home and he does very well with his advertising.

Anyway, I don't want to try and tell you how to live your cyberlife, I'm just saying I would enjoy reading your stuff. Thanks!

[Anon001]

Paul, you need to start a daily journal if you haven't already done so, and then put it on a blog. I would enjoy reading your stuff. There are a number of free blogs available to post your writing and photos. Then, reference your blog in your posts here so we will know where to go look.

Not to be morbid, but I would like to know what happened with your propane accident and what you would have done differently if you could have.

Also, I think you have barely scratched on what you know about cattle, etc.

If you start your own website, there are a number of advertising possibilities where you can make a tidy little income if you draw enough readership. I know of one website where a guy writes about building your own home and he does very well with his advertising.

Anyway, I don't want to try and tell you how to live your cyberlife, I'm just saying I would enjoy reading your stuff. Thanks!

Thank you for the comments. I will respond in a new thread (link below) so as not to hijack Debbie's thread.

My Response (http://www.backwoodshome.com/forum/yabb/forum.pl?board=sel-homesteading;action=display;num=1238115747;start=0 #0)

[Deberosa]

I've arrived!!! *

I got in about 3:00 PM. *Called the realtor on the way to meet me and we went right up to see Deberosa II!!!

Spent over two hours walking around checking it all out - there was alot to check out! *The rain held off for the duration so that was good.

There are two roads in - one is longer and more bumpy and the other is shorter and steeper. *Neither is too bad or too long. *Just enough to make the place more remote, although right now I am at the junction with I81 three and a half miles away and it's a busy truck stop!

It's so quiet! *I am trying to get pictures uploaded but it's slow here. *The only real surprise was that it does have a stream and a pond!!! *The pond was half filled but has an overflow pipe and everything. There are wide paths for something like 4 wheelers or the tractor cut all over the property so all of it is accessible. *The house is mid way between the front and the back - lots of space! *The deck faces south and the porch is a nice screen porch. *The tractor also comes with a big disc.

THey have been doing a great job of cleanup and burned off the field. *I see there are some thistles sprouting that need control but not many other issues. *The soil is a clay/sand kind of mix but there already is a large garden area in.

They put alot of work into the place already, and the house is very nice. *Nicer than I've lived in for a long time! *The shed is really very stout with a wood floor and much bigger than I thought - it will easily hold all of the equipment.

There is already a grape arbor - yeah! *One thing that's done outside. *There are even onions in the garden. ;-)

There is a big fenced area that will be a great start for a pasture. *It's very sturdy wire fence, only need to put in a gate to complete that area. *The hog pen is raised off the ground with a wood floor. *

It's beautiful! *I walked around the whole place checking things out - oh it has two deer stands!
The tractor mystery is solved - it's a Ford 2000 and in good shape. *Good tires on it. *I'll post that picture on the tractor thread. ;-) *It has a large disc with it also - he ran that over the field he burned off. *I think they were afraid I would back out of the deal so they made an effort to make it look nice!

Kurt is very excited to get back here. *There is so much to do!!!


Jake got out a bit and made sure to mark everything he could as belonging to him! *I think he likes it too. ;-)

Did see some pheasant on the way out. *I am headed back up there for a second look first thing in the morning!

WOOHOO!!!

Edited to add pictures!

http://www.photoworks.com/photo-sharing/shareSignin.jsp?shareCode=A2CB283C806&cp=ems_shr_a lb_pml&cb=PW

[SPIKE]

Glad to see you made it to Deberosa II. I think you said it was beautiful. So I figure it probably already feels like home. I am so happy for you.

The pictures are great! I think it was picture 1oo that showed the old pickup frame. Looked like the start to another good wagon to me! LOL

SPIKE

[SPIKE]

I would like to thank Debbie, Deb, Pat and Karen for the most delightful afternoon meeting. It really made my day. I think we all wished we had more time. It is Deberosa's fault, but I am sure glad she made the time to travel through Tennessee.


I read the post I made yesterday and decided I need to clarify something.
In the above paragraph it was my intentions to blame Deberosa for the most delightful afternoon meeting, not to blame her for the fact we did not have more time.

I told you all that I am usually posting with first coffee!
LOL at myself.

SPIKE

[Anon001]

Debbie,

I am glad you made it. It looks great and I know you're glad to finally get to see it and walk it. Glad Jake likes it too.

Hopefully, Kurt will be able to join you soon...

Thanks for the pics..

Paul

[Native87]

Welcome to Virginia. I am about 15-20 minutes from you. When I first saw the pic you posted of the new home I knew it looked familiar. I live in the Snowville ares outside Radford. Enjoy. Glad yu all had a safe trip. Native/Terry

[Southerngirl]

Debrosa,
The place looks great, thanks for sharing photos!
I'm sure your mind is full of all kind of ideas and just itching to get started! We're all glad you made it there safely, at least you missed the winter storm. Good thing Spring is right around the corner! Enjoy your new place, I just LOVE the back deck!
Southerngirl

[Deberosa]

SPIKE(Mike) - I knew immediately what you meant by your post! And I would never have believed you are a recluse!

Native(Terry) - When you mentioned Snowville it brought to mind Snowville, Idaho which I went through on the trip and guess what - it was snowing!!! How cool that we are neighbors! We must meet once I get the house.

It's been a tough day and I am a bit down. Getting a mortgage is a huge task in this environment. I had everything lined up. THe appraisal came in fine but the bank will not believe it!!! THerefore they want 20 percent down instead of 10 percent so they are doing a second mortage (will likely be at some outrageous rate). They also will not believe the assessed value of my place in Washington is what it is. ANd why would I need that? Because I am renting it and it has to have 30 Percent equity to rent it. Now why that is I have no idea!!! I think they just want more money out of me. I am taking a deep breath today and just giving them what they want to get it done. With any luck the place in WA will have an offer soon. I just have to keep trusting. I have to move forward and focus on my new job starting Monday! It's taking everything I have.

I stopped at the local recycling/dump area that is on the way to the new house this morning. I desparately needed to clean out a very filthy cat crate. At first the caretaker was stand offish because I didn't have a sticker. I told him I was hoping to close on a house up the road in a week and asked how to get a sticker which he explained. I asked if I could please just park to the side and get the cat box cleaned out and he said go ahead - just throw the stuff in this one container. I thanked him profusely!!!


I also have placed Martha with a co-worker that fosters dogs. She has turned an old farmhouse into a Kennel and Martha will be OK there till the house closes, but Jake would have been outside and it was dark with many many dogs. I couldn't leave him there so we will figure something out... I think he will be staying in a crate in my boss's garage while I am at work and then with me in her spare room at night. Her son really likes him! I just couldn't put him in a strange place after all of these other changes. I am just hoping this won't be all that long. The cats will also be in cages in the garage for the duration. I move them to a crate with a blanket at night and then to the crate with their litter box and food during the day. That should be much better for them!

I've been on the road almost all day - it's an hour and a half on a good day one way to get to the foster dog place and then I had to get back to where I am staying which is another 45 minutes beyond that! All in the dark and pouring rain - I thought I left it behind.

I will be going back out to Deberosa II to show my boss tomorrow. Maybe that will cheer me up along with a couple of days to get organized again before starting a new and intense job.

Sorry to be so down - I hope I can look back on this and know it was worth taking one step at a time and keeping faith that it will all work out.

[txplowgirl]

Hi Deb,
Get a good night's sleep and everything will be better tomorrow. I'm glad you and you kids ;) made it ok.

[Boris859]

looks great debarosa! you definately have alot to work with there! enjoy your new job too

[Anon001]

Debbie,
I know you were suppose to close on the first, but maybe you could check out a different bank. *I talked to a bank this last week about what I was telling you and they will do a 30 year amortization with three year balloon for me at 4% ARM with a 6% cap. And they were so easy to work with, so maybe you can delay closing *few days and check out another lender....?

I think the bank knows that they have you over a barrel since you were to close next week and they decided to do a con job. *Did they agree to lower the interest if you put down 20% instead of 10%?

Good luck, and enjoy the visit with your boss at the new place.......
Paul

Anyway, I agree with txplowgirl. *After a goodnight's rest you will feel fine. *

P.S. Keep your chin up. You know you have a lot of people pulling for ya.

[Deberosa]

Thank you Paul,

I am taking a deep breath today and moving forward. I am sorting all of the stuff out of the truck. The cats are fixed up. Still have to clean out the back of the truck but will do that at a car wash. Jake is in a crate on the porch to practice for when I start work next week. At least he can sleep in the same room with me so that's good.

As for the loan, I am going to ask they consider FHA or USDA loans but I won't go with an ARM or balloon payment because of the risk involved. I just have to let them bleed out all they can and never do this again!!!! It's so very frustrating that someone can get an ARM that they know people won't be able to pay in a few years but they can't trust me who has never even been a day late with any payment ever and has a good job. Oh well.

It's raining raining raining here. YUK - will spend the day getting organized I guess.

Debbie

[Anon001]

Debbie,

I'm sure you are feeling better about it after a good sleep.... I didn't mean to suggest an ARM or a balloon for you but I was just giving an example that some banks are easier than others to work with. I would normally NEVER consider an ARM either, except that in my case they will cap it at 6% which is still fairly low.

I would think that in today's climate, banks would offer a good deal and fall all over themselves to compete for someone that they know to be credible and not a credit risk. They know that most people get this close to closing and panic with any hiccup. They saw a woman that they thought would panic this close to closing and do anything they tell her to do so as not to delay her closing. They sound like scum to me.

But, here's wishing you a great day.....
Paul

[Native87]

Deborosa,
Sorry the weather isn't cooperating with you but I tell you WE need it here as we have been very dry here for a few seasons. The water tables fell and the river has been down due to AEP holding so much back for the electric at Claytor Lake. I know it is bad timing for you but when you grab that first big ripe tomato I think you will be pleased. ;)

[Deberosa]

Well, this may be a pipe dream after all...

The more I thought about the banks sucking more money out of me and the sellers "discovering" that they owe more than they were selling the house for I got angrier and angrier at "the system". I searched around today for alternatives. I am living in the basement of my boss's house so have to do something!

I found a good compromise. Not our dream homestead for sure but will lead to what we want in a couple years. Only 5 minutes from my new job my boss saw a sign "rent to own" so I checked it out. One acre on a stream with a house completely remodelled plus outbuildings including a chicken coop all for the same price. Plus with this location and it's zoned commercial. It's got city water but also has a well for irrigation plus the stream which is a sizable creek. It's next to a sort of busy road but the creek separates the road from the property. Even better the owner will rent the place to me until closing!

So I am issuing the ultimatum tomorrow- stop the nonsense or I walk from the deal and go with this other place. I plan to go see the inside of this new place tomorrow after work but I've already looked in all the windows and it's beautiful.

It's at http://www.owners.com/AWW3049

Price is much lower than on that site though!

In two years that property will have significant value because it is also zoned commerical in addition to being right next to a college and we can in the meantime grow a homestead with the cash we save and look around together for the right place.

It's not the dream, but sometimes you just have to do what is needed. I'll keep you posted on what happens!

At least it has a chicken house! It may be time to start that nursery business here...

[Anon001]

It looks nice.
I know this must be disappointing.
One thing I've read a lot about lately is that a lot of banks and mortgage companies are allowing people to do "short sales" on their places. Maybe the bank has agreed to let the owners sell for less than is owed. It is happening a lot. But that shouldn't affect you if their lender agrees to the sale and you have title insurance... I think.

But, I agree that you should stand your ground. Maybe this is a blessing in disguise and you will know the reason soon enough?

I have sure been keeping you in my thoughts. I hate to see this happening.

Paul

[logansackett]

Sorry to hear about your troubles deb, I have been following your story and wishing you the best. I think you have a good plan, you will only be pushed so far, then you will go elsewhere. Good Luck. M

[CarolAnn]

Deb -
I admire your good attitude! And you're absolutely right - if you find you're dealing with a pack of skunks, it's much better to walk away and do something else. The house in the link looks very nice & "one acre on a stream" sounds VERY nice!" Best of luck to you - but you're smart & strong & won't need luck! ;)

[Deberosa]

Thanks so much for the encouraging words. I do think the banks want to push me as far as they can and if I give in now they will only want even more money.

Paul, their bank has had a week an a half to consider the short sale and still no word!

Now this new alternative disappeared because within a matter of hours he took someone elses offer even though it is much riskier to him since I had the approval all lined up. I could not commit till I talked with Kurt and my realtor - dang!!! The other person hasn't accepted but I am now back to square one with alternatives... Been looking up other places - just normal houses that are cheap for short term. Deberosa II may remain a dream unless the beaurocrats decide to cooperate. I have to remind myself that I can get a garden in anywhere and that may be the limit till we regroup.

Housing Crisis? Yeah - someone with perfect credit, a pocket full of cash and a real good job can't get a loan. That's totally in control of the banks - same ones that got all the bail out money and are funding McMansions without the blink of an eye with ARM's STILL!!!!

I hope I get some good news tomorrow!

Debbie

[johnny]

Looks and sounds like the 'new' place may be a better deal for you. Heat pumps are the cheap way to go as far as operating costs really.
If the original place still has your heart then make YOUR offer to them and a 'take it or leave it'!

[flatwater]

It amazes me that the banks are getting all this bail out money and their stingier then ever to make a decent loan. good on ya for standing up to them. You may fined out that there is even a better place then the one their trying to screw you with. Hang in there and don't give an inch. ;)

[logansackett]

Good luck Deb, keep thinking positive. I am hopeing all will work out for you. Side note, would'nt we all be better off without bankers and lawyers? M

[Deberosa]

Looks like I get the house on an acre with a stream near my work. It's certainly a beautiful house - craftsman style 1945 era and he redid the original floors by hand! The soil is rich and I'll be moving in in a couple of days! YEAH!!!!

Since it's commerical it will also be the start of a farm business even when we move somewhere else. It's a great location.

More later - gotta go!

Debbie

[SPIKE]

You go girl. Put that foot down. Who do they think they are. We do not take this stuff around these parts.

"Intestinal Fortitude"

There is probably a much better Deberosa II out there waiting for you. That area of the country has many good homesteads just waiting to be discovered.

Sorry to hear that it has been such a problem for you.

Butthead Bankers!!!!

SPIKE

[jen_in_southtexas]

Hi Deb,

I too am sorry to hear that they are yanking you around like that. I think the house on an acre is adorable. You might just find that that may be all that you need. Who knows. You just do what you gotta do. I know that you will be ok.

-jen :)

[Anon001]

Deb,
Good for you! It's obvious the bank agreed to a short sale by the owners (selling for less than owed) and when you arrived and they saw a woman with a gray hair or two, they thought it would be a pushover and an easy way to recoup some of the money by doubling your down payment. It's legal, but scum. I'm glad you stood your ground. This will be another door opened and you will probably find another 20 acre patch that is even better.....

I sure wish Spike and Pat were there to help you move.... I hate to see you do it alone ! LOL...

Paul

[reedb66]

I have 2 thoughts on your bank problems .I had the same problems in wisconsin ,good money ,ok credit ,same bank for 14 years NO LOANS,They wouldnt even consider it.Not even with a cosighner .So we bought everything for cash as we went ,took years but we made it work ,then we wanted a bigger place found what we wanted and went to the bank.We even had our house sold and could apply $20,000 to the $56,000 price tag on the new house,The bank still said no!!!The reason was we had no credit history because we built our place for cash and owed nothing we were being punished.Then we got the idea to move to missouri (better climate for us )I was afraid we would have the same problem but much to my suprise no problem.This bank knew me from nothing ,coming from out of state , and get this UNEMPLOYED!!
We looked at a house for 39,000 with 3 acres that was beautiful and were approved the next day by the bank.We bought it for 30,000 ,Down payment of 7,000 ,closing costs 350.00 and a payment of 225.00 per month heres the scary part, ballon payment!! I almost changed my mind but the banker told me at the end of 3 years I could either pay it off or roll it over for another 3 years and so on ,no additional finance charges just keeps on going .This has worked well and I have built great credit with this bank .I can borrow as I please no something no other bank would give me.I also found out the reason why they are so good to work with( in house financing ) They arent as concerned with your credit score so much as your ability to pay and that you have a down payment which helps a lot of people around the area get into a house they can afford .You sound as though you are a goor credit risk and you have a down payment is this something that would help.

Just my 2 cents ,may not be for you but my bank at least wants to do business with people which helps ,Might pay to look for a small bank with in house financing .

Good luck
Reed

[jen_in_southtexas]

Reed,

You brought up a good point about smaller banks. The bigger banks didnt even consider my applications for my land loan. But my realtor has banked with this one small town bank forever and ever and I got approved with no questions asked. All i did was fill out the application and then they called like in a day or two and said that I was approved. I know i will build up a good reputation with this bank for possible future purchases. They are very friendly too and my loan officer is never hard to get a hold of. If I want to talk to her I dont get passed thru to other service reps. I get connected straight to her and she returns phone calls in a timely manner!!! I am very happy to do business with them.

Deb, it is something to consider.

-jen

[Deberosa]

Thanks for the advice. I am slowly learning my lesson! I am working with the seller on this place to first pre-screen mortgage people. This house is zoned commercial and he's had deals fall through because of it so we are going to tell them that up front and eliminate them that way. Really there is nothing else wrong with the place - it's immaculate! Concrete, then block for the first floor and huge oak beams and planks for the second floor.

The seller is really really nice - letting me move in - at least what I have until closing and helping me to get the place. I think working together we may just beat the so and so's!

Debbie

[johnny]

All to often sellers listen to agents and get greedy but seems like this second person with the house on an acre might just be 'your guy' to go with. HEY--an acre is enough to at least get you going and plenty of space for a garden. Might be in the end--you'll be happy because with a full time job and all that--might be time to sit back and breathe a while--ya think?

[reedb66]

Yep, I think the smaller banks have a lot going for them .When I go in to talk loans the loan officer is the bank president and he makes the decision with me on the spot.When I went in for the loan on my business I prepared and rehearsed my business plan and about 2 minutes in he looks at me and says (how much do you want and when do you need it?) Music to my ears!!!I see him at sales or the store and he always makes a point of shaking my hand and asking how things are going, and get this he will offer a suggestion on any topic we may be discussing just a friendly person, not just glad to take your money and usher you out the door.Kind of different. :)

[Deberosa]

Reedb, you are right about the smaller banks. I know there is someone has to want to make a loan on this place! Just have to find the right bank. I had thought credit unions where a better bet but the person I was working with disappeared and they never had anyone else even call me back. I just called to see what was holding stuff up and they said she doesn't work here any more we'll have someone else call you and they never did!

I am sure we will have plenty to keep busy with for a few years anyhow, it's just going to be different kinds of projects than we originally planned.

[SPIKE]

Sounds like it will be a good investment if nothing else. And in one of your post you mentioned "rent to own", so it appears you will be able to at least get settled into the area.
I am sure that you and the critters are ready to have a place to call home.

"Adapt and over come, that is what people with Intestinal fortitude do"

SPIKE

[reedb66]

The main thing is your at least there,Now you can work on what makes you happy.I remember how happy we were to finally move to missouri ;D,we worked and got plans ready for 3 long years before we left wisconsin,just was gods plan cause nothing would come together and than all the sudden bam ,were moving .All the problems went away ,everything just happened ;)And except for a few minor set backs everything has been great.Glad your happy ,Now have fun!!!!

Reed

[Deberosa]

I am so discouraged I don't even want to post anymore!

No, I am not moving in, when my realtor went over to have the papers signed he didn't even take them with him. Doesn't want to pay the commission. I made a full price offer with no concessions! So I am hitting the road again...

Looked at a real dump tonight - ick. I have two other options tomorrow before I concede to this guy. Both I could move in and I want to make that clear it's part of the offer! One on 8.3 acres but older house - however much cheaper since it's been on the market for over a year and the owner is in a nursing home so the family is trying to sell the place. The other has also been on for over a year but may be the one - I liked it before they lowered the price... It's on 15 acres and is all set up as a homestead. Woman has owned it for 40 years and it's well cared for. Has barns, pasture, etc. So maybe that will be the one??? Heck plenty of room to just throw up a dog kennel till it closes at least. I can stay in a hotel!

I am so discouraged, this is nothing like what I wanted to have happen. I may be shipping Jake back to Washington and putting the other animals up for adoption just so I can get a place to live for now and it will kill me.

I don't know - it's discouraging...

[reedb66]

Sorry to here that .just do your best .Take a deep breath look things over all the way to your horizons than relax and look and think some more,No emotions!!(important)what your looking for or better yet," need "hasnt found you yet .It will ;)Trust in yourself and you will prevail.Being as I am new to the list where did you move to ?The reason I ask is my wife has a licenced animal rescue in missouri and has ties to other rescues in most states and maybe she could help you find temp housing for your critters nearby.Just a thought. No reason to lose hope ,This is just another challenge in life. Sounds like you have beat a lot to get where you are now ,you will beat the rest :)

Reed

[Anon001]

Debbie,

I hate to hear this.... Just another chapter in a saga. But, it will work out somehow. You just have to believe it. You know we are sometimes thrown hiccups and we just have to do the best we can.

I sorta hated to see you go for the house on the one acre. I think the downsizing may have been something you would have regretted later on. Maybe not. But, as excited as you were over the 20 acres and the way you beamed when you talking to me about it, I.... well.. I think you would be happier with more than just the one acre...

I know you want to get into your own place desperately... If it was me, I would check out the place with 15 acres again and try not to get into too much of a rush.... That will help you keep your head on straight.

I'm pulling you for and know that it will work out for you.

Paul

[SPIKE]

I'm sorry to hear about all the complications, but I am sure things will work out well in the end.

Is renting a house a temporary option while you are looking for Deberosa II?

I can not and will not picture discouragment on your smiling face! ;D

Some times we just have to keep on keeping on. You will find the right place.

Come spend the weekend in West TN. We will try to help you feel better.

SPIKE

[Anon001]

Hey, SPIKE..... Um... why don' ... um.... we could go pay her banker a visit and change his mind for him.... lol... It would be worth it to see a smile on her face again.

anon lol

[txplowgirl]

Hey Deb, I'm sorry it's not going as planned. Take a deep breath and go ummmmmmmmmmmmm. ;) I'm keeping my fingers crossed and praying for you. Hang in there.

[SPIKE]

Hey, SPIKE..... Um... why don' ... um.... we could go pay her banker a visit and change his mind for him.... *lol... It would be worth it to see a smile on her face again.

anon lol

BWAAAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHHAA

I do have some friends in low places!!
Oh, Paul I did catch your post earlier about Pat and I.


Hey Debbie,

Have you looked at my garden pictures? It even made me laugh (at myself) when I looked at the pictures of the 15x50 pup tent!!!!!!!
What some people will do? LMAO

SPIKE

[Anon001]

BWAAAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHHAA

I do have some friends in low places!!
Somehow, I can believe it... I saw your pic with Debbie, remember? LMAO

Oh, Paul I did catch your post earlier about Pat and I.
oops... you saw that, huh?

Paul

[Anon001]

Debbie,
Here's hoping the weekend brings you relaxation and rest to help bring you peace of mind....
Paul

[Deberosa]

I stumbled on one piece of luck today... I was looking at any posting and found a place on a half acre that was pretty cheap. Went to look and it had a for rent sign also... Sign says would rent month to month until the house sold... Hmmm. Has total chain link fence and dog doors, hmmm. Well I called the number right away and asked about the dog and he said no problem! THe prior tenant had three dogs!

So tomorrow I meet him at the house and nail it down as a rental at least. If after a week or so I don't get an offer at the WA house I'll also contract to buy it because it's an excellent rental place - in perfect condition although small and I could allow people to have dogs which would rent it very fast. That gives me time.

I keep going back to the first dream for Deberosa II - the sixteen acre tree farm and if I have a place to rent I can take my time making that deal happen. Getting the right bank in the first place. It could still happen...

Success comes to people who never stop dreaming,
Who trust that their dreams can come true
Who take each new chance each new day bring their way

I was given a card with that on it when I left Oregon for the unknown in Colorado over 25 years ago so I'm not beat yet!

Thanks for the encouragement!

Debbie

[johnny]

Head high and eyes and ears wide open and it'll happen. Best of luck to ya.

[Anon001]

Wow.. You even "sound" like you're in much better spirits. Good for you!
Paul

[SPIKE]

Wow.. You even "sound" like you're in much better spirits. *Good for you!
Paul

I do not know how we hear by reading, but I must agree. I saw Debbie smile while reading her post.
OMG Now I think I can see by reading. ;D

IMO The way things have been going, I think renting is a great idea. Slow things down a bit. Get set up then look for the RIGHT PLACE!!! Get the critter all settled for a bit. Eliminate the immediate stressful situation.

Have a good day,
SPIKE

[stilltryinat50]

Deb, glad to hear things are looking up.

The rental looks like a really good idea that will free you to take your time on finding the ideal place.

Best of wishes to you.

Deb

[Anon001]

IMO The way things have been going, I think renting is a great idea. Slow things down a bit. Get set up then look for the RIGHT PLACE!!! Get the critter all settled for a bit. Eliminate the immediate stressful situation.
I think that is about the best advice I've seen, SPIKE.... You is smerter than I thoughted you was..... LOL

Paul

[Deberosa]

I sign a lease tomorrow for a month to month on the small place. Then I'll make a decision on the next step. Lots of showings at the WA place but no offers yet...

Won't have internet for a while except for after work so will get even more scarce but will try to keep y'all updated.

Debbie

[jen_in_southtexas]

Deb,

I am just happy to hear that you have found somewhere to lay your head down for a while. Take your time looking. You will find it.

-jen

[johnjmw]

By renting for a while, opening an account at a local small bank and creating a "relationship" with them. When you are ready for a purchase the bank will look at you differently because they now know you too.
Good luck.
John

[flatwater]

Like I said before , when one door closes a better one will open. Good luck Debs. By the way how is the new job doing ?

[Deberosa]

The job is going well, very nice people and work I am familiar with. Even with all the other stress I am being useful so that's good!

I'm going to take a few days to get settled and then start the search again!

Debbie

[Deberosa]

I am not giving up!!! I have temporary quarters now and just had an offer accepted on my first Choice for Deberosa!!! I learned my lesson and am going to finance it as a farm. A bit more interest rate but not bad. I also got an Appraiser with an inside reference also so I hope to still be in by May 15th!!!

This is a 14 acre tree farm with a 100 year old home on it - it's very very beatiful but I didn't know how to finance it before. It's actually cheaper than the other place!


So keep me in your thoughts - I hope to get moved in soon enough!


Debbie

[Anon001]

Debbie,

That's great! I was wondering how it was going.... I hope we can see pics soon.

Paul

[SPIKE]

Thanks for sharing the good news. It is nice to see that things are starting to go better for you.

I didn't like the little ford tractor any way. It would have been too much trouble to get a FEL on it. ;D

How are Maggie, Jake, and Jake's cats?

How mature are the trees on the farm?

SPIKE

[MinotBob]

PICTURES!

[Deberosa]

Not much time - but here are some pictures!

http://www.photoworks.com/photo-sharing/shareSignin.jsp?shareCode=ACC23F1C7A3&cp=ems_shr_a lb_pml&cb=PW

[Anon001]

WOW! Great pics. You've got an instant built in homesteading business! We have several tree farms here. One of them has a horse drawn hay wagon and a belgian mare. Near Christmas time they have a radio station do a remote broadcast on a Saturday and they take people on the horse drawn holiday decorated wagon to select and cut their tree.

They also sell to a lot of "Christmas tree lots" in various cities. They sell a lot of trees!

I like the place and I like the house.

Good Luck, you're in my thoughts.

Paul....

P.S. When Kurt makes his trek east, SPIKE wants him to stop here and pick up a calf to take and drop off to SPIKE! LOL ;D ;D

[SPIKE]

Now that is a back porch with a view!!
Very happy for you. From the pictures, it appears that your trees have been well cared for and shaped nicely.
Did the last owner leave you the long sword looking tool to shape the trees with?

SPIKE

ps
I'm not sure how to respond to Paul's ps in the above post, but "IT SOUNDS GOOD TO ME"
ROTHLOL

[Deberosa]

Thank you again for all the great thoughts - I just found a stray wireless connection in the bedroom of my rental - yeah!

I went out to Deberosa II last night with the realtor to verify the water was working - it was working fine and the whole place was really nicer than any of us remembered. It won't need much at all. A great creek way in the back that we had not gotten to in Feb. and what a sunset! We all sat on the benches of the deck to enjoy the place!

She thinks I may close by the end of the month - I sure hope this is the one - it's the one I fell in love with first and I sure know why.

[txplowgirl]

I love that porch! Keeping you in my prayers. ;D

[Anon001]

Debbie,
I am really happy that things are coming together for you....

[Deberosa]

We got an offer on Deberosa I!!! Still lots of details to work out but any offer is very good - Kurt may be heading east sooner rather than later! YEAH!

[johnny]

'Good on ya' as they say down under. *

Now--once you get it--you can sort of kick back and watch your grass and trees grow--ha.

See--good things do happen to those of us who cuss and rant and

oh yeah--

wait! *HA!

[Anon001]

We got an offer on Deberosa I!!! *Still lots of details to work out but any offer is very good - Kurt may be heading east sooner rather than later! *YEAH!


Great. I'm happy for you.. I hope it works out.

[Deberosa]

OK, I've been called on the carpet for not posting. ;-)

It's mostly cautiously good news. They are managing to appraise Deberosa II so that I can buy it. It might close as early as next week but I think probably the week after is more like it. YEAH!

Deberosa I is under contract with closing scheduled for May 27th. Then Kurt will be heading east! Our stuff gets loaded May 7th and should get to Deberosa II by May 22nd - YEAH!!!

That's if everything works out right. We are looking for backups for Deberosa I just in case. I don't know what I'll do if Deberosa II falls through - I'm so excited about it. I don't see what could stop it at this point.

Jake and I will head out there this weekend to hang out. Jake still has his "project" to work on. ;-) The waiting is torture!

Keep sending along those positive thoughts - with any luck the second half of the year will be looking up for us.

Debbie

[txplowgirl]

GOOOOD LUUUUUCCCKKK! ;D Keeping my fingers crossed and praying :)for you.

[Anon001]

I'm happy for you Debbie. I'll keep you in my thoughts....

[johnny]

Sometimes we just have to take a step backwards to get a good start.
You had your step back so now--onward and upward.

[Deberosa]

Spent some time out there today. Wasps and bumble bees have set up housekeeping in the deck roof so that's going to be a project. The grass isn't getting too out of hand which is good.

Went for a walk down to the stream with Jake and he scared up a turkey!!! It was huge!

I sure hope the beaurocrats hurry up and get things signed around. ;-)

[Deberosa]

Well, luck is certainly not on my side. They did not accept the appraisal because of the tree lease. The owner will not sell for the lower appraised value - have no idea how he thinks he is going to sell it. They would still give me the loan but it would be upside down the day I got it!!!!

I am so exhausted.... The Deberosa dream may very well be dead. Looking at an interim option at this point because I could lose the rental that allows animals at any point.

I am considering this:

http://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/113-Lovely-Mount-Dr_Radford_VA_24141_1108760946


I have to keep in mind that many people would be very fortunate for that much land. ANd Kurt and I can search around for our land once we are moved into this place. Maybe we stay, but if not we have a cheap place to live to ride out this current financial storm. I can focus on preserving and gardening and buying local food as well as keep the chickens.

Sigh...

[krash]

good grief, deb, this has been such a roller coaster ride for you. hope you can just get settled somewhere and have Kurt there too. I think planning to focus on garden and chickens for a while is a good idea--but please do not consider the dream dead--just on a different path for now. hang in there, girl.

[Anon001]

keeping you and Kurt in my thoughts.

[Deberosa]

This is so stressful! I went to the plan g ( I think that's the one I'm on now!) and looked at the alternative. It was great! I was ready to switch. Run over right after work to meet the realtor and make an offer because I delivered an ultimatum to the tree farm guy and got no reply. There is a line when I get there!!!! On top of that the owner took the place off the market - she could not bear to part with it. (I don't blame her really!). Right then I get a call that the tree farm guy accepted the deal of selling for the appraised value. YEAH! ONly a few inspections now between me and a 14 acre tree farm. Keep those good thoughts coming!

[Anon001]

see.. us keeping you and Kurt in our thoughts will make it happen....

[txplowgirl]

My goodness Deb, :o Keep your head up and we all will think positive thoughts for you.

[MinotBob]

Are you sure you want to become a resident of VA? Sound like you'll raise the IQ of the state though.

[dearg]

New to the forum but have been reading your thread, sending good thoughts your way. Some one who has worked so hard and persevered through so much deserves a great outcome.

[Dave]

Keep on trucking Deberosa! Looks to me you have had quite the "Mr. Toads Wild Ride" on this whole ordeal.

I can relate to the emotional roller coaster but I am VERY confident the right things will happen for you. Sometimes you just have to look at things a little differently but I have no doubt you will pull this off.

Warm regards,

Dave

[TNDadx4]

Wow... what a ride! Keep dreaming!
Congratulations! I hope this closing goes quickly for you

[Deberosa]

I can't describe how much all of your support means to me! The document is signed - now there are three minimal inspections left - septic, pest and well. They are required to get the loan. I don't anticipate any issue with them at this point though.

I'll know more about the status of the sale of Deberosa I tomorrow - please keep me in your thoughts. Pretty soon I hope to be back in homesteading mode and posting about projects again!

[txplowgirl]

Sounds good, thinkig good thoughts for you and i'm sending you a great big hug. I bet you could use one. :)

[Deberosa]

Well, it's not good...

They determined that the septic on Deberosa I has failed and before anyone could buy it that has to be replaced. It could be up to $20,000. There goes any cash to close on Deberosa II. So I am finished with homesteading on acreage. It could be worse, my new (who was my old) boss who gave me a place to stay when I got here ended up in ICU - is still there! I told her yesterday she made me feel lucky.

I have been thinking long and hard. I am going to find a place to rent. I am selling EVERYTHING in WA and we're only taking what Kurt can fit in the truck and what else we ship back in boxes. That's it.

The more I think about it the more I find the "stuff" to be a big albatross. I am doing fine here with an inflatible bed and some patio furniture.

Once the house sells, if it ever does... Then we can look for land for cash, and build with cash as we save. It's a whole different kind of challenge...

We have our health, I have a good job and we will just simply start over with that...

I am thinking my focus needs to be on saving cash and eating only local food, if I don't grow it myself.

[Anon001]

Debbie, what type of septic system do you have? Here where I am a septic can be put in for anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 depending on the type of system used.

I'm sure keeping you and Kurt in my thoughts.

[johnny]

Kiddo--you said 2 very important things there--

you have your health--#1

you have a good job--#2

At the moment it may sound not so good but think--

many dont have one or both of those and are just plugging along hand to mouth.

[Deberosa]

Johnny you are right and for Kurt and I we also have each other.

I've some full circle to a plan. First I thought of simply abandonning all responsibilities. Give the house back to the bank and quit paying the other debt since they will tripple the interest as soon as I quit making house payments. Then take the cash and the income from the job to rent as we can. I was going to sell every stitch of everything waiting on Deberosa. We would be starting with nothing and no means but cash to get anywhere... A highly productive, tax paying citizen reduced to zero in less than a year.

But I have come up with a better plan. If I fix the septic, since the whole place is condemned at this point. We have the means right there - it's what we have been working so hard at for years. I'll stick it out here until I don't have a place to live or Deberosa sells for what it is really worth. And If I don't have a place to live with my dog, or it takes months to find someone who would even want the place, well then I will go home. We can make it on Kurt's salary and the savings we were going to put into Deberosa II. I won't be sucking out unemployment benefits or anything but we can survive. Everything is right there - carefully planned for years so that's where we may end up making our stand.

These are such ugly times.

[Grizzy]

Woman... I admire your decision! NEVER Give Up!

~Grizzy~

[Anon001]

Debbie,
I was thinking about you and your situation today wondering if maybe going home wouldn't be the best move considering all you've been through, and then for you and Kurt to be apart as well... You must be one amazingly strong woman. When I met you, I knew you were a special person and it breaks my heart to see someone as special as you go through this.

You and Kurt are always in my thoughts.

[bee_pipes]

Have been reading your posts and following events. Sorry for you the new move is working out. There is a lot to what you say about the state of things. The responsibility doesn't rest solely with the guy in office, this situation was many presidents and congressional terms in the making. Glad you have a fallback position. Your plan is sound, just hard to have to choke down a change in plans. The only thing I might suggest is the day when Deberosa sells for what it's worth, move further back to a place where land is cheap and there's not enough government to care about something like septic.

You hang in there, and don't be bashful about collecting unemployment - you've been financing the system for years.

Regards,
Pat

[SPIKE]

It makes me sad to hear about all of the complications you are having.

Would a few cliches help?
It is always darkest before the dawn.

What does not kill us makes us stronger.

When life gives you lemons, make lemonaide.

Life never gives us more than we can handle.

How about some Rolling Stones music;
You can't always get what you want, but if you try sometimes you get what you need.

Okay, I am sure none of that helped at all!!!!!!!!!!!! ;D
It is hard to figure out what life is telling us sometimes. You have to make your own decisions, but I know from your Deberosa I post, that you enjoyed the place you had and the life you were making.

If you do go back to Deberosa I, collect unemployment with your head held high. It is there for people who lose their job due to no fault of their own.

I chased construction work around for a long time, but finally decised that work was not as important as my happiness when it came to the place I would homestead.

If you fix the septic, you may want to check into the Infiltrator system for your field lines. In TN., you can install 30% less field line using this system over the old styles.

I hope your old/new boss gets well.
Just think how funny all of this will seem in 10 or 20 years.

Sending good vibes,
SPIKE

[Deberosa]

Thanks again, trouble is if I do go back I won't get unemployment... That's the really horrible thing. If you try to get a job and it doesn't work then you lose even that safety net..

I don't know what I'll do, but the encouraging words help so much.

[johnny]

There are ways to appeal the unemployment deals and many who do it win. Moving across country and then having your deal on selling your place there fall thru may darn well be a plus for you in winning also.

Work the system as best you can--you helped build it so now may be your time to do a little recouping--think about it long and hard. Be as determined with them as you are about your homestead--you''ll win!

Pinkies crossed for y'all and all that!!!!!!!!!!!!

[DM]

I'd be tempted to drop the price of Deb 1 by 25K and let the new owner pay for the sewer... He gets AT LEAST 5 extra K for his trouble, (and i bet the sewer will be less than 20K) OR work something out with them along those lines...

Hang in there, you will make it!

DM

[flatwater]

Where ever you go that pioneer spirit will always be with you and you will survive. It almost sounds like you were meant to stay at deborosa 1

[Southerngirl]

I too have been reading weekly about your journey, I believe flatwater may be right, maybe Deberosa I is your place to take a stand and it was meant to be. You never know...... it just doesn't seem like it should be this difficult to move on, but in todays' world I guess it's typical. I am sorry for these rough times. :(
I also agree, you have a strength to you that we can read within your post and know that you will make it no matter what is brought your way!!
Thinking of you in my prayers,
Southerngirl

[Anon001]

Hey, you want that me and SPIKE should go knock some heads? LOL

Come on, SPIKE,... get yer coat. ;D ;D ;D ;D

[rAcErRicK]

Wait for me, I'm goin too ! :D

[Anon001]

ya better get a move on! ;D

[SPIKE]

Round up the possie, we may have a mission!
I could probably round up a few more head knockers as we travel east.
It is good to have friends in high and low places. ;D




Hey Paul,












MOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

SPIKE

[Anon001]

Hey Paul,












MOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

SPIKE

R O F L M A O ! ! !

That is the best laugh I've had in ages! Thanks.

[Deberosa]

Thanks,

You guys make me smile. :) I'm not dead yet, there is still one more scenario that could make this work. Will find out in a couple of days!

I am so glad I have Kurt watching my back side there in WA! It will be sooo good to get on with life together no matter where.

Debbie

[rAcErRicK]

Thanks, *

You guys make me smile. *:) *I'm not dead yet, there is still one more scenario that could make this work. *Will find out in a couple of days!

I am so glad I have Kurt watching my back side there in WA! *It will be sooo good to get on with life together no matter where.

Debbie

It WILL happen Girl. You are made from good stuff ! Just keep your head down and keep marching with a vengeance. Your cheering section is on duty.

Godspeed

[johnny]

Deb--been lookin and think I see your problem--you aint fightin these folks fair and square.

Seems to me that when you get em down then you just smile and walk away--not right--no sir, not right at all and I will tell you why and how not to make that mistake ever again.

Your old way doesnt work cause when you turn your back and politely walk--they bounce back up and stick a big ole knife right in your back sooooooooooooooo---

lil missy, from now on--once they're down you walk up to them and smile--stick out your hand as if its a peace offering-- and kick them suckers square in the ribs!

Now thats fair fighting like they are used to so get it on and get with the program.

Oh yeah--best o'luck to ya!!!!!!

[Deberosa]

Deb--been lookin and think I see your problem--you aint fightin these folks fair and square.

Seems to me that when you get em down then you just smile and walk away--not right--no sir, not right at all and I will tell you why and how not to make that mistake ever again.

Your old way doesnt work cause when you turn your back and politely walk--they bounce back up and stick a big ole knife right in your back sooooooooooooooo---

lil missy, from now on--once they're down you walk up to them and smile--stick out your hand as if its a peace offering-- and kick them suckers square in the ribs!

Now thats fair fighting like they are used to so get it on and get with the program.

Oh yeah--best o'luck to ya!!!!!!


Their ribs? ;D

[Kyhome]

Debbie not much to add with all that’s been said by others but I am keeping you both in my prayers and know things will turn out well for you two wherever this adventure plants ya. Best wishes. Rick

[johnny]

Their ribs? ;D


Hadda write 'ribs' in there cause that 'oliver dude' will get us if we use that other word--ha ha ha

[johnny]

Carpet time again young lady--where ya at and whats happenin--huh? Pinkies crossed for ya but from your recent posts it may be 'eye crossin time' and that long trek back to Wash. But not to knock that cause in my eyes Wash is a beautiful place to hang ones hat.

Been in and around the Olympia/Tumwater area and Moses Lake and neither was too shabby so head high--and all that wrought. Pack up the 'kids' and scoot 'home' if thats whats in your cards.

[Deberosa]

Still struggling here - thanks for asking. Now my internet is also flakey!

I'll know Monday if there is a deal and Friday if the deal will actually happen. So it's more waiting...

So far no buyers on my rental I am in which is good - the rain pouring in the back porch roof might have a bit to do with that!

Keep those good thoughts coming and I'll jump on here when I can.

Thanks

Debbie

[johnny]

Okie dokie BUT remember--

someone comes a pokin around--that cotton pickin roof leaks--ha.

Not nice to forget stuff like that is it--especially to prospective buyers--ha ha.

Always do the best with what ya have and keep a lil something handy to 'slip' in--just in case.

[Deberosa]

OH, you guys, there is still a glimmer of hope! I have a signed contract - just a few loose ends! I am at the point where I am NOT cancelling the moving truck next week - may have to pay a last minute penalty in an emergency but risking it at this point.

Took a ride out to Deberosa II and it took my breath away! Watched the sun set over the blue ridge mountains from the driveway and just stared at the brilliant green around me - the lawn was even mowed!!!

Now if they just wait a couple weeks to close it will be done... I sure hope they will!

I am daring to be hopeful that it will work out at last and we can be in our new home together.

Thanks so much for the good thoughts and wishes along this very long ordeal, but maybe it will be over soon...

Debbie

[Grizzy]

YAY (do'n beary happy dance) GOOD NEWS!!! Tanks fur let'n us KNOW! :D

~Grizzy~

[flatwater]

Let us know when we can give a sigh of relief

[Anon001]

yeah, what flat said. :D

[MinotBob]

There have been so many places I lost track. Is this Deberosa II the original or is this a 2nd or 3rd choice?

[Deberosa]

There have been so many places I lost track. Is this Deberosa II the original or is this a 2nd or 3rd choice?


Hey, I sometimes lose track myself! This is the tree farm. 14 acres with a stream and spring on the back of the property. All flat except the very back. Mostly clear with a bit of woods (few acres at the back). 8 acres are in a tree nursery leased for $2000 a year until 2016. I get paid to watch his trees grow! There is plenty of room to grow the homestead in the meantime. A 100 year old small home and a large dirt floor garage. From the driveway there is a view of the Blue Ridge mountains that is spectacular. It's really exactly what we want. We were thinking of putting in Blueberry bushes as the trees are harvested to start a blueberry farm. It's perfect for that.

Can't wait to move in - still nothing for sure but some positive signs it might happen.

Debbie

[stilltryinat50]

Hey Deb,

How about an update......I have missed you in chat and saw your post about not being able to log on......hope it is resolved soon.

[Deberosa]

Still waiting. But the truck is getting loaded in WA on Wednesday. I sure hope the place is sold! I will know much more on a couple of days.

Here are some new pictures of Deberosa II if all goes well!

http://www.photoworks.com/photo-sharing/shareSignin.jsp?shareCode=AE11B22C85C&cp=ems_shr_a lb_pml&cb=PW

[jen_in_southtexas]

Deb,

Those are wonderful pictures! I like it there. Thank you for sharing them with us. I hope that everything gets worked out so that you and Kirk can go on with your lives together.

-jen

[rantinraven]

Deborosa I have been following this post for a while now. I just wanted to let you know that I am puling for you. I think the idea of blueberries is great. I have been contemplating on adding them to the yard here but I need to add so much to the dirt I am worried I will do it wrong and kill them. Let me know if you decide to do it and I will share with you what I have learned. I got my fingers, toes, and eyes crossed for ya.

[Anon001]

Deb,
I think it's great that things are finally falling into place. Is Kurt coming with the trailer or is he staying in WA a little longer?

[Deberosa]

Thanks! It's still looking really good. Kurt won't give his notice till the house closes for sure in WA - would hate to quick and then the buyer back out!!! So he will stay in a motel for a couple of weeks to work out his notice, then head South first to visit his mother then east to VA. It won't be long and things are still looking real good for everything to happen.

[Deberosa]

Kurt's loading the truck! The hardest part might be done by the end of next week - getting the closings completed. It's looking good for Deberosa II!

Busy dealing with address changes and utilities now...

Debbie

[johnny]

WOW--see good things still do happen.

Time now to sit back for a short spell and 'pop a top' or two and kick the old heels up on the porch railings and take a deep breath--you earned it kiddo!

[Anon001]

I'm sure glad it's going well for you now. You and Kurt deserve it.

[Kyhome]

Sounding a lot better for you two which is great.

[Deberosa]

Everything is set! Close on one THursday and the other Friday!!! Now the only problem is that not everything is fitting in that 28 ft trailer. ;-) I am making long distance decisions on what to leave behind, but at least we'll have alot to start the new farm with.

[jen_in_southtexas]

Deb,

Im glad to hear that things are lookin' up!

jen

[Anon001]

YEEHAWWWWWW !

[Caffreys]

Congratulations on everything falling into place. Now the fun begins.

Caffreys

[Deberosa]

Yes - I am so glad to finally know where we are going to land and can plan how to deal with it!

This will be a very busy summer for sure getting set up in a new place. The truck is almost packed and it is packed solid! Loose items such as hoses are filling every crack available. It will be a puzzle unpacking it but I am so glad we had the great help in loading that truck. Seems like everything "important" is going to end up packed so that's good.

I'll take pictures of the unpacking to show what it takes to move a farm 3000 miles!

Debbie

[johnny]

Yep--one day you all can sit down and laff about the headaches--the heartaches--the almost ulcer--the almost packin back up and heading back to where you just came from and then you look out and wonder for that brief moment--'was it really worth it?'

Then you answer yourself with a hearty 'hell yes!' and voila--all is well at D2!

[Funmommy]

Congratulations on your new place Deberosa. ;D

[txplowgirl]

There for a while I was almost dreading to read your posts. I am happy that things seem to be going well for you now. Now on to a brighter and happier life. ;D

[Deberosa]

Thank you all so much, I am sure all of those good wishes help swing the outcome.

The truck is packed! Kurt is grumpy and exhausted but at least that is done. It should come out alot easier than it went in, although it's packed in like a jigsaw puzzle.

I do a walkthrough on the new farm prior to closing tomorrow - so things are moving fast now.

Debbie

[Deberosa]

WOW! The truck leaves tomorrow! Both closings happen the day after tomorrow!

Here are pictures of the truck getting loaded with all of the "stuff". ;-) Kurt is the guy in the sunglasses. Dave Sr and Dave Jr are the helpers. It took them 3 days to pack that truck to the roof front to back!

Thank you to Linda Jo for taking these excellent pictures!

Last Pictures of Deberosa I:

http://www.photoworks.com/photo-sharing/shareSignin.jsp?shareCode=A309432C871&cp=ems_shr_a lb_pml&cb=PW

[Anon001]

Good pics, Debbie. I'll look frward to more.

[flatwater]

To bad you couldn't of taken the greenhouse and some of those nice looking flowers with you.

[Deberosa]

To bad you couldn't of taken the greenhouse and some of those nice looking flowers with you.


Oh yes, I know - I am only looking forward though after that. I was glad LindaJo got to take pictures for me, it's sort of a closure to a very special place.

Everything happens today both houses close and I start moving into Deberosa II. I found out that DSL is even available!

The trailer is sitting in Tacoma waiting for dispatch after which I will be able to track it across country! Kurt will give his resignation as soon as I am sure the house closed in WA, hopefully they don't make him work out his two week notice...

Debbie

[Anon001]

Crossing my fingers!

[BCaswell]

I'm sure gonna miss you, but I'm SOOOO happy things have worked out for you. Daisy says "Moooooo"!

[Deberosa]

Thank you Barbara! I will miss Daisy too...

BUT! BOTH HOUSES ARE CLOSED!!!!! YEAH!!!! And the amazing thing is that they closed at almost the exact same time - noon Pacific and 3PM Eastern!!! Not a single glitch!!! I've been cleaning at the new place, and watching the deer wander along the fence line!

Better yet - Kurt's last day of work is tomorrow and he heads east Saturday (via CA to visit family). I told him he will get here just in time to help unload the truck he packed. ;-)

I am very very excited about this new chapter. I've already got a flock of Salmon Favorelle chickens arriving soon after the truck. Also have a lead on guineas, turkeys and more chickens - so Deberosa II is official now!

It's truly a miracle, thank you all so much for pulling me through this journey! From the great visits on the trip across country to the encouraging words when I thought I was going to have to give up.

Debbie

[MinotBob]

That's sure good news.

[Anon001]

Debbie,

You have no idea how happy I am for you and Kurt. Now we get to start seeing progress pics, huh?

I'm grinnin' big for ya.

[Anon001]

Hey, Debbie......

How's it going? When does the flow of pics start? lol

[WRTN]

Thank you Barbara! *I will miss Daisy too...

BUT! *BOTH HOUSES ARE CLOSED!!!!! *YEAH!!!! *And the amazing thing is that they closed at almost the exact same time - noon Pacific and 3PM Eastern!!! *Not a single glitch!!! *I've been cleaning at the new place, and watching the deer wander along the fence line! *

Better yet - Kurt's last day of work is tomorrow and he heads east Saturday (via CA to visit family). *I told him he will get here just in time to help unload the truck he packed. ;-)

I am very very excited about this new chapter. *I've already got a flock of Salmon Favorelle chickens arriving soon after the truck. *Also have a lead on guineas, turkeys and more chickens - so Deberosa II is official now!

It's truly a miracle, thank you all so much for pulling me through this journey! *From the great visits on the trip across country to the encouraging words when I thought I was going to have to give up.

Debbie

Congratulations Deb! Best wishes for and an enjoyable Deborosa II! It has been a topsey turvey journey but you are home NOW.

[Jamie]

Deb,
I am really happy this all worked out for you. Where did you end up finding this new place? Online or did you know someone locally? My dh lost his job last year just before Thanksgiving. We knew ahead of time and tried to save our homestead... didn't happen. We have since left Oregon and are now in Nebraska. Now we are having to start completely over. No financing here... just prayer, and savings. Anyway, I would love to know how you found your new homestead.

Thanks!! Looking foward to pics of the new place.

Jamie

[Dave]

Congratulations!

Wonderful news Indeed!

Dave

[Deberosa]

Oh my - way to busy now! Kurt is in Flagstaff heading east and the stuff is in Terre Haute, IN headed east. I am in Reston, Va in a class!!! Dogs are in care of the neighbor for now.

I found this place on www.realtor.com which WRTN (Randy) sent me. It's very current with what is available. I won't get out there till Saturday! It's been a LONG week...

Next week is Kurt getting here and moving in to the new homestead - yeah!

Debbie

[johnny]

HA--good to hear that things are a lookin up for ya both.

BTW--Terre Haute,In is where I was born and raised--small world isnt it.

[Jamie]

Thanks for taking the time out to answer, Deb. Sure appreciate it!

Jamie

[Anon001]

Debbie,
Thanks for the update.
Paul

[LeatherneckPA]

HOLY COW!!!

I just finished reading the Adventures of Deberosa I & II. talk about a roller coaster ride! I am so very happy that it all worked out for you in the end. You sure you weren't in the Marine Corps? One of our little axioms is "Improvise, Adapt, and Overcome". And good lord you sure did all that.

Congratulations, Deb & Kurt both.

[Anon001]

Hey Debbie?.....

Is Kurt there yet? Is the truck unloaded? unpacked? orderly? LOL

[Deberosa]

HOLY COW!!!

I just finished reading the Adventures of Deberosa I & II. talk about a roller coaster ride! I am so very happy that it all worked out for you in the end. You sure you weren't in the Marine Corps? One of our little axioms is "Improvise, Adapt, and Overcome". And good lord you sure did all that.

Congratulations, Deb & Kurt both.


My Dad was a Marine. ;-)

I think the challenges are just starting! The stuff is out of the truck. Kurt is here. But the stuff is not in the house yet for sure! I do have the DSL hooked up though...

A tiny house with no closets is proving a challenge. I am now jetisoning alot of the "stuff" accumulated to get down to what is really necessary. And I thought I was already lean and mean! It's just that when I packed before leaving I was thinking we were moving into a space over twice this size!!!

The hot water heater broke the second day but Kurt just got it fixed - yeah! It needed new elements and was turned up to 150!!! The moving truck got stuck, but just as I was going to call a very expensive tow truck in drives the guy who rents the land to grow trees drives up in a 3500 Silverado Dually. Without a hesitation he hooked up to the trailer and pulled it to level ground again. He's a wonderful man.

It rained for two days but now we've had three days of dry so I am hoping upon hope that he can get this trailer out of here - he doesn't have to go down to where he got stuck to turn around. They brought a HUGE tractor to pull it which I wasn't expecting. Neither was I expecting several weeks solid of rain, especially the rain just before he arrived that made the grass just a bit to slick to back up on. Tomorrow will tell if that phase works out.

The water was a bit murky but cleared up after running it a bit.

We will have issues this winter because turns out this has been a summer house for years. That explains the small propane tanks on the back. We will either need larger tanks or rethink heating - lots of research and questions but at least we have time.

There won't be much of a garden this year - I have barely gotten half of one room remotely organized. I greatly underestimated the stress. I have to rethink all of living - nothing is "matching" as it was when I built out Deberosa. I have to get over that. Get over things not being quite as convenient, space is a huge issue. But we have LAND and it's beautiful at that.

Oh - hired some young men to help move in - they did a wonderful job! Two of them organized the shed and got stuff moved there from the house. UNTIL they saw a spider on the wall 6 inches across!!! We think it was a wolf spider but peering into the back of the shed I could see many large spiders scurrying about. Ticks are bad too. We are resorting to chemical warefare to get the upper hand right now. Then will go back to organic once we have birds in place.

At some times I feel panicked about what I got us into but Paul and others have given me hope that this can be overcome one issue at a time. Research is first on the agenda. The young men who helped us move in also know lots about construction and with Kurt's expertise I think we can get lots of projects done cheaply.

It's a major lifestyle change but probably for the best - it's amazing what you can live comfortably without... I am going to try going with an outdoor clothesline for the summer to see how it goes. The dryer won't fit in the space alotted once the washer was installed so it's a perfect time to rethink things. I'll be cooking outside on the grill and a propane camp stove all summer also until we decide what to do with the gas stove in the kitchen.

It will feel much better when the deck is cleared of "stuff" and we can sit out there in the evenings and start really planning what we will do with Deberosa II. Well, back to work!

Thank you to all of you for your support and encouragement through this! It's knowing the obsticles you all have overcome that has given us the courage to take on this new place. I'll have a ton of questions once I get things sorted out here!

Debbie

[LeatherneckPA]

I do have the DSL hooked up though...

Glad to see you've got your priorities in order! LOL

A tiny house with no closets is proving a challenge.

One of the most common threads on both HomesteadingToday and SimpleLivingNetwork is reducing the clutter and getting rid of stuff. I so want Cindy to start this, but inertia keeps getting in the way. And I do not dare begin without her.

There won't be much of a garden this year

OK, look on the bright side. You will probably find several farmer's markets nearby. Not as cheap as your own garden, but definitely better than the supermarket. Also, seems to me I remember you mentioning Radford. If you are near there you aren't too terribly far from Joel Salatin's Polyface Farm (http://www.polyfacefarms.com) (about 120 miles straight up I-81)

UNTIL they saw a spider on the wall 6 inches across!!! We think it was a wolf spider but peering into the back of the shed I could see many large spiders scurrying about. Ticks are bad too. We are resorting to chemical warefare to get the upper hand right now. Then will go back to organic once we have birds in place.

Think Guineas!! I can't wait until we get our land and can have them running around free. If you order them now from Meyer Hatchery (http://www.meyerhatchery.com/get_list_111.htm) they'll be able to grow in the summer and be able to care for themselves largely by fall. I suggested Meyer only because they are nearby (in OH) and I've had good service from them in the past.

it's amazing what you can live comfortably without... I'll be cooking outside on the grill and a propane camp stove all summer also until we decide what to do with the gas stove in the kitchen.

We live off our grill in the summer, pretty much from April 15th to Halloween I prefer to cook outside. Is there a reason you aren't keeping the gas stove? I know I'll never cook over electric again.

Sounds like it's all coming together. In all of the commotion, I forgot to ask, how's your friend who got you into all of this doing? Is she out of ICU and home yet?

[flatwater]

Where oh where to put stuff , that is the question. Debs I have done a lot of moving the first half of my life and it has always been stressful to me also. I finally got to thinking that the problem isn't that the houses were to small. It was , I had to think of better ways to store stuff so it's neat and tidy and I could see what it was or at least label it good. I found some cool clear plastic large stackable containers that worked very well. One wall of a small room was stacked from floor to ceiling with them. and since rome was not built in a day neither was my unpacking going to be done in a day. I said that to say this. Take a breather , relax and know that the hard part is over , you have your hubby , a job , and a great place that pays you money. Theres at least a million people out there that wish they have what you have.

[Anon001]

Deb,

I'm glad to read that Kurt is there and everything is unloaded. I sure wouldn't be stressing now that y'all are back together and you've made it this far. Dang, the worst part would be the moving, selling, buying, closings, where to live temporarily, etc. Just think of all you can do on that place with more acreage.

I, too, am curious why you are getting rid of the gas stove. I like cooking on gas..well.... propane.

I, look forward to more pics and stories as you settle in and progress on your new life together.

Thinking of you,
Paul

[LeatherneckPA]

Deb,
I may be all wet here, but from your exclamations about the beauty of the farm or the tiny nature of the house, I sort of got the impression that you hadn't seen the property in person before. Would that be accurate?

I was just asking because I've been considering the same idea, but it just seems to risky for me to "jump" on. There is a piece in MO that is VERY nicely described, and at a WONDERFUL price. I just know it will sell before I can get the time to drive out there and see it.

[SPIKE]

Hey Deberosa,

I am so glad to see that you, Kurt, and the critters have finally made it to Deberosa II. It turned in to a real test even for somebody with intestinal fortitude.
Now the real work of starting the next homestead begins.
I look forward to seeing the new place progress into the place you want it to be.

Best of luck with everything.

SPIKE

[Jamie]

Deb,
I just wanted to post a link for you to find some local produce rather than paying too much at a farmers market. It has been a real blessing to us since we can't garden this year either. Its www.pickyourown.org Most of the time it will also list if they follow organic methods too.

Have fun!!
Jamie

[Deberosa]

Thanks for the link Jamie.

As for the gas stove, I plan on keeping a gas stove, it's just that the one that's here is in really bad shape and could be dangerous, so need to find an alternative.

The trailer is gone! He made it out just before a rain storm, yeah! No more worrying about them charging me major towing costs! We are plowing through the boxes - sorting and sifting. It's looking better every day and hopefully this weekend we can start actually living here!!! I really want to be here instead of in town in temporary quarters.

The rain continues - seems to be never ending!

Well, back to work - still not much time for the forum unfortunately.

Debbie

[Deberosa]

Deb,
I may be all wet here, but from your exclamations about the beauty of the farm or the tiny nature of the house, I sort of got the impression that you hadn't seen the property in person before. Would that be accurate?

I was just asking because I've been considering the same idea, but it just seems to risky for me to "jump" on. There is a piece in MO that is VERY nicely described, and at a WONDERFUL price. I just know it will sell before I can get the time to drive out there and see it.

Hi Mike,

I did visit this particular place back in February before placing a bid. I found it on the internet to begin with though. Still I am amazed at the beauty here.

As for buying site unseen, we planned on doing that with the original deal that fell through. When I got here there were really no big surprises, but I could tell the neighborhood was not like the one we are in now. This suits us much better. Still even with the other place I had my realtors take lots of pictures to decide to make a bid. It was very cheap and I knew there would be lots of issues and was prepared to deal with them. In retrospect the one mile road into that place would be trashed about now with all of the rain we've been having.

My suggestion is to narrow it down to two or three good choices and then make the trip. If you are looking for a fixer upper, those places tend to be around longer. THe current Deberosa II was on the market for almost a year and there were no other people interested. Either they were looking for something fancy, or they could not get the financing. I had to get special financing with a good chunk down to be able to buy it.

Anyhow that's been my experience.

[NCLee]

As for the gas stove, I plan on keeping a gas stove, it's just that the one that's here is in really bad shape and could be dangerous, so need to find an alternative.
Debbie


Debbie, I'm new here, so I've just read your thread. I stand in awe of your courage and strength to go through what you did to get your new homestead. Always thought I had gumption, but I don't know that I'd have made it through what you went through. My hat's off to you!!

Re: Your gas stove. Even though it may look terrible, chances are that it still works as it should. Can't say that about electrics, but gas is a different story.

Take your stove outside in a safe area and hook it up to a 20lb propane cylinder. Look it over and do a bit of cleaning, if needed. By that I mean make sure varmits haven't made a nest in the bottom broiler area. Make sure cooking residue hasn't blocked the gas outlets at the eyes.

Turn on the gas and test all connections with soapy water (dish detergent or get a test solution from Lowes or Home Depot). Do this quickly since you haven't lit the pilot lights (unless your's has auto ignition.) If you have a leak at any of them, you'll see large soap bubbles. If you do see them, not to worry, yet. Turn off the gas. Just try to tighten the fitting. And, then, re-test with the soapy water. Rarely do you have to replace a fitting, but if you do, just take it with you to a good hardware store. They can match up a replacement for you.

While checking fittings, lift the top and check there. Check where the gas comes into the oven, too.

Once you're sure you don't have any leaks, turn on the gas and light the pilot lights. (Or turn on 1 burner, if you have auto ignition.) Note: It may take a few seconds for the gas to reach the pilot lights. Move from one pilot to another and keep trying to light, using a disposable grill lighter rather than matches. Leave your oven door open, so gas can't accumulate.

What you're doing is purging the air out of the gas lines. It depends on how the lines are arranged as to which pilot light will be purged first. Thus, keep trying from one to another. If you smell gas, STOP. You'll probably get a light whiff of propane. That's OK and normal. Anything more than that indicates you may have a problem. Double check all of your fittings, once again, as you may have missed one.

Let the gas dispate (sp). That's the reason for doing this outdoors. If all your connections are OK, Then, try again to light your stove. Sometimes, it'll take a couple of trys to get those lines purged. If you still can't get the pilots to light, take a close look at the orifices. Spiders love propane. You may have an orifice (the brass fitting with a tiny hole in it) that's plugged by a spider web or corrosion. You can replace the orifice. Just take it with you to your local propane company. They can match the proper sized replacement for you.

At this point, I'm assuming you have the pilot lights working. Now turn on each burner, in turn, and check the flame. Next, do the same with the oven.

If you have all working, then, while you have the stove outdoors, do a good clean up. Dawn Power Disolver is one of the best things I've found for cleaning up stoves. It'll cut through that accumulated grease better than most other products, I've tried. You may have to apply more than once and give it time to work. Wear gloves as this can be rough on your hands.

Debbie, gas stoves are simply piping that moves gas from the tank to the burners. Since your stove was in place, the chances are very good that it's still operational. And, you don't have the worry of frayed electrical cords, electrical shorts, etc. that can cause major hazzards in electric stoves.

And, Debbie, please don't misunderstand. Propane is dangerous if not handled properly. The main worries are leaks and allowing it to accumulate in an enclosed area. Both of those have been addressed above. So, if you follow those, you'll be Ok in checking out your stove.

FWIW, background - I've cleaned up and put back into service a number of propane powered items and have done new installs, including running the service lines. I don't have a licence, as this has been work for myself. So, take my post with a grain of salt, especially if your area requires a licenced contractor to do anything with propane or natural gas.

In closing, I do hope you'll try to put that old stove back into operation. At least for a time, until you've settled in and have some leisurly (sp) time to look for a new one.

And, do a little more research to go with my post. The goal is not only to get your stove operation, but to give you another self-reliant skill that'll come in handy in the future. Especially, if you decide to put that old stove to use in your future "summer kitchen" for example.

Hope this helps. I've love to see some pictures of your homestead, when you get settled in.

Lee

[Deberosa]

Thank you Lee! That is great information and we may be trying it - even if we do decide to make it an outdoor stove eventually. Every dime we save will help because the big expense will be heat this winter. Having never dealt with propane stoves, it was a bit intimidating for sure.

We are staying here for the first time tonight - I finally have enough put together that we can do that at least. There is still alot to unpack but now we can actually move around and see progress!

Debbie

[johnny]

Young lady--an update would be nice!!!!!

Joking of course as figure that you guys are fairly busy at the moment so wishing the best to ya and hopefully see ya posting before long after much is put away and enough room cleared out to walk thru the house--ha.

[Deberosa]

Hi johnny!

Well, pretty much the new homestead is started and now we deal with the day to day projects that pile up around a place! I took two days off work but lost three days to being very sick last week so didn't gain alot of time. I guess my body just said "enough" and decided to take a vacation. ;-) I still tire pretty quickly but every day gets a bit better.

The house "WAS" pretty much put together - but now the projects continue to tear up parts of it again. ;-) Today it's the showere fawcet that decided to quit working so we are installing one I had already had on hand that I got at half price. (Sometimes it pays to be a packrat!). Of course it still takes at least two trips to town for pieces and parts and finding tools is a bit of a challenge at this point but it looks like this project may be done today - yeah! Next will be the kitchen sink which is an old metal affair. It's has seen it's useful life indoors and will become an outdoor sink. Of course I have a new double sink to put in, from my "stash", ;-) but need a base that will close off the floor and a small bit of counter top. Not a big project but things always turn up! Will need a new fawcet too for that sink but it will make a great work area.

We traded out all of the light bulbs for flourescents to save on electricity. Drying clothes outside is working fine so far so will continue that. The mountain of wood chips that the Electric Company contractors are dumping in the field as they clear the electric lines in the area is growing and I cheer every time they bring in a new load! ;-)

Didn't get to the chicken coops during this break, that will be next weekend's project. Then we will be looking about for some fruit trees, grape vines and berries to get started for a future supply of fruit. So Deberosa II is getting on it's way after a very stressful 6 months since I originally got the word that my job ended last December. It's amazing that the place I looked at on line over and over last Christmas time is the exact place we are moved into today after a very winding path.

Through it all we are still taking time in the evenings to marvel at the wonderful sunsets over our expansive view of the Appalachian mountain range to the north and west. On the 4th we could watch the fireworks in Christiansburg, about 12 miles away, from our driveway.

We are just glad it all worked out!

Debbie

[NCLee]

Debbie, put off looking for those trees and fruit until the fall. Best time to plant them is mid to late fall, depending on the zone you're in. Zone 6?? If you don't mind the suggestion, concentrate on getting a late garden in, if you haven't already done so. Or, prepping to plant a fall garden of cool weather crops.

And, do take a breather..... considering what you've been through just getting there and setting in .... you deserve some time just for adjusting, resting and pausing to really think through all your plans. Don't wear yourself out. For example, save those inside projects, that can wait, until this winter.

Lee

[johnny]

Just remember--

the good things in life arent free and take a bit of work

while--

the really good things--well

they take a damn site more

BUT

in the end

worth each and every bead of sweat given.

Sweat--for those that havent ever done so--
its usually called perspiration around the air conditioned corner where the water cooler sits.
So I'm told anyway!

[firegirl969]

Debrosa,

Thanks for sharing the pictures of your beautiful new homestead. I saw them on the July on the Homestead thread and just had to drop you a note and say Congrats on the new place. Blessings, firegirl

[Deberosa]

I've been waxing nostalgic this week and dug up this post. What a year this has been for us! Of course we are not "finished" , never will be but when I looked back at this thread and where we were one year ago it's quite amazing!

Chicken coops are in, chickens, guineas and turkeys are all in place:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b340/deberosa/011-6.jpg

Jake has a new English Sheppard buddy:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b340/deberosa/005-8.jpg

We got a tractor!!
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b340/deberosa/002-7.jpg

We got to see a spectacluar fall:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b340/deberosa/012-4.jpg

Well, rats I got cut off! - Too be continued.

[Deberosa]

We got some raised beds in place:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b340/deberosa/011-7.jpg

WE got 8 blueberries in place (hope they lived!):
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b340/deberosa/003-7.jpg

We survived the worst winter in this area in MANY years. REplacement windows and a last minute wood stove installation helped with that!
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b340/deberosa/009-7.jpg

We have a cold frame started. Built a storage shed for overflow stuff, a dog condo for Martha, and completely reorganized the spider infested garage. We actually have some hope of finding what we need. Not perfect but a great start!

Redid the Kitchen and the sun room:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b340/deberosa/DEBEROSA/013-2.jpg

Kurt fixed up the hot water heater, shower faucet, wired the deck with 220 and 110 for the freezer and the dryer outside, plus a million other chores while I am at work. Got my plant starting setup going too! Even had my parents come to visit from PA to give their stamp of approval!

It's good to look back a year when I was feeling frustrated about not getting anywhere and missing Deberosa I where everything was just getting organized.

What a crazy undertaking that was and what a miracle it's turned out like it has through all of the challenges

[Native87]

This is a great point to support journals or blogging. I bet you had a time reliving the ups and downs while going over your alls progress. An old sating I like is Not the beginning of the end but the end of the beginning. :) I am glad that things are going great and I wish yall nothing but the best for future endeavours. :)