We have to renew our lease for August 2007 – August 2008 this Thursday, May 1. (yes, that is a good 3 months before our current lease runs out) We really would like to move so that we could have our “dream apartment” which would consist of (1) two bedrooms (2) a dishwasher and (3) a washer/dryer in our unit.
Forget the American dream — that’s been replaced by the Nelsons’ seminary-days dream.
I (frantically) searched the local newspaper ads and craigslist, and I found two places for us to look at on Saturday. But, alas, neither would work out. One didn’t have a dishwasher (despite what was advertised) and the kitchen was smaller than our current one … and there was less closet space (believe it or not). And the other one looked like it had not been updated in the entire time this landlord owned it (13 years). Granted it had two bedrooms, dishwasher, and washer/dryer … but when you have mismashed cabinets taken from the 70s, 80s, and early 90s, respectively, as well as carpet to “match,” who really cares that it has all the amenities you want?
So we were back to square one. I was reluctant — feeling doomed to another year of the 560 square feet we’ve called home (and office). But as we’ve talked it out and thought and prayed it through, we’re newly convinced that this is a good and right decision for now. And God has truly given peace, even contentment, which defies our disappointment in having to put off the pursuit of the Nelsons’ dream apartment for one more year.
Reasons why we’re (becoming) glad we’re staying:
1. no hassle of moving in the heat of July/August
2. better financial decision (not stretching our already tight budget)
3. convenient location — Bed/Bath & Beyond, Walgreens, Barnes & Noble, Starbucks, Whole Foods, Trader Joes, Target, TJ Maxx, Old Navy, Steinmart … all within a mile!
4. amazing maintenance staff — they even kill apartment mice for us
5. wonderful neighbors that we hope to continue building friendship with
And best of all: it’s COZY (better word than teeny-tiny small) and holds all the memories of our married life thus far.
hidden glory 
I was wondering about this. Sounds like you will be glad with this decision for several good reasons. Dean and I have also thought about moving in a few years, and yet the thought of leaving behind our “first” home and all the memories these walls hold is a bit sad…Enjoy your quaint space!
I have some good pics of your place that I need to send you.
kc
Love that you are close to things like Target!! I miss it sooo much!
hmmm. thankful to hear how the Lord has answered our prayers. it’s sweet to have clarity and peace as you’ve sought wisdom and discernment. hey, glad i won’t have to relearn a new place 🙂 yeah, it’s all about me!!
One good thing about your place: less space= less stuff! And I bet it is really cosy!
I’m so encouraged by your example of “learning to be content” with where God has you right now! I know y’all will look back on it as a very wise decision!! I do think your current place is quite “cozy” and very “hospitable”. I am so proud of the way y’all have been creative and made it work for your season of life. I am always amazed at the frequency of your hospitality when there’s no “automatic” dishwasher.
Love you both and are very proud of your adaptability!!!
Mom