Dayton September 2023

WELCOME LETTER
This is the best street
I’ve ever lived on.
-Bob, featured homeowner
I’ve lived in my current home for nearly 30 years. Before that my
previous record for staying put was 4-1/2 years. Although signs are
starting to appear that it might be time to think about finding a new
place. My husband and I are empty nesters and the idea of having
fewer rooms to clean and a smaller yard to manage is appealing. And,
oh yes, we’re in the age group where the consensus is we should be
looking for a place with fewer steps—and a first-floor bedroom. It’s a
conversation I don’t feel old enough to be having.
But after talking with Bob and Jen, the homeowners featured on
page 18, I’ve had a slight change of heart. The couple built a new onefloor
courtyard home that was about half the size of their previous
place. They picked a location and a floor plan that checked all their
boxes. Interior finishes and furnishings were carefully selected to convey
a less-is-more concept. Outside there is a front porch for morning
coffee, a private back yard with a pergola and stone fireplace, and a
section of grass— just big enough for the dogs to run.
They checked the location, location, location boxes as well. Grocery
shopping is nearby, highways aren’t much farther, and closer to home,
the neighbors in this 55-plus community are welcoming. Clearly, the
couple is quite happy with the upside of their downsizing.
This issue shares their story, along with a pool designed for serious
swimmers, and a charming bungalow updated with respect to its
history—all with the common thread of people who are loving where
they’re living.
I hope you’ve found your happy place too.
Thanks for reading.
Karen Bradner
EDITOR
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Linda Bacher, Florence Murphy
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