Dear Reader Column 07-03-09

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Dear Reader,

Happy 4th! (tomorrow) to readers in the U.S.

Mary reads at the book clubs and her response to this past Wednesday's column about how my husband and I have been fixing up our house, even though we're not planning on selling, reminded me of a life lesson. Many times what I'd been searching for was right there, in front of me, all along.

"Oh Suzanne, you and I (and maybe HGTV) are on the same path. I usually spruce up my house just before I sell it, but this time I am doing that and more just for me. When I used to look at homes for sale I'd always think how cute they would be with just some minor alterations. When I bought, I usually figured that eventually it would be my 'dream home'...you know....that personal retreat with all the touches of home that spell 'serenity' when you walk in the door? But somehow I have never made it to that goal. I'd end up moving instead.

Last year I wanted to move again but with the economy the way it is, my house did not sell. That made me stop and think about all the reasons I fell in love with this house to begin with and all the plans I once had for it. Well now I am working on those plans: landscaping, skylights, room remodel etc. The feeling of contentment and satisfaction is priceless and I get to keep all the great neighbors. Good luck with all your plans."-- Mary

If you missed the column, find it at: http://tinyurl.com/kvw6f6

Today's note made me smile and have an aha moment. My wife is an HGTV junkie; I'm trying to find a support group for her. Anyway, she has been on the same kick of fixing everything up, and she did mention we should fix up our house like we were going to sell it. So in a month she has painted our kitchen, dinning room, master bedroom. Which means I've had to redo trim and put up new light fixtures? Now we've moved to the outside. So as you can see that's why I need to find her a support group. Actually it's been fun and our house and yard are starting to have that 'Designed to Sell' look."--Mike

Thanks for reading with me. It's so good to read with friends.

Suzanne Beecher
Suzanne@DearReader.com
http://www.DearReader.com