Saturday, March 03, 2007

3/3 In Montgomery, Alabama

I left Rob and Beata's home around 9:30 this morning and drove for nine hours. It was really a pleasant drive, good weather, and no complications. Right now I'm at a Holiday Inn Express in Montgomery, and tomorrow the trip will be easy--three or four hours.

The orientation in Austin went by so quickly--so much to learn and lots of paperwork to complete. Everyone was really nice, and I am psyched to begin this next adventure in Biloxi. Tomorrow I check into an extended stay hotel, and can stay there for 30 days which is what I need because it will take that long to close on a condo or house. My realtor is picking me up Monday afternoon and we're starting the search. I'm really excited about the possibilities.

The other day the Red Cross emailed me and said they really needed mental health people to work with tornado victims in Alabama and Georgia. Had to decline, even though I'd love to help.

While driving through Georgia so many memories flooded--I'd lived there for seven years, and passed by many towns I was familiar with. I called an old friend while passing through. Carolyn and I met in 1978 and were best friends for two years before I moved back to Quincy. We've stayed in touch over the years, and it was neat talking to her.

Enough for now.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

So happy for you in this new and exciting time of your life. I know you will be great at your job. Good luck house hunting. Nice talking to you today.

Jerilyn Dufresne, author said...

Thanks, Jan. Sure hope you and Tim will visit soon. (Well, not too soon. Have to find a place to live first.) Good luck with that new puppy.

Beata said...

Mom, I am so glad that you had a nice day during your trip. It was great talking to you last night, and we are happy that you are ok. LOve you!

Anonymous said...

Safe Journey...and best wishes on an exciting NEW BEGINNING.

If rent is as high as you said earlier, I have to say I do not agree with Jeff at all. Even if you only stay a few years, there is a chance to make a profit on a mortgage, but NO Chance if you pay rent...but I do agree he probably has your best interest at heart.

Jerilyn Dufresne, author said...

Thanks, Jeff. And I know you have my best interest at heart. But it's purely a matter of economics. Rent is exorbitant here, because of the lack of affordable rental properties. Most of the rental properties haven't been rebuilt and/or repaired yet. So I'd have to pay nearly $900 a month for a decent place, and even then there's no guarantee there's a spot available. Mortgage payments would be significantly cheaper, plus provide the tax benefit. If I can't find a place to buy, then I'll rent.

And thanks, Cin, for agreeing with me. (Hi, Beata!)

Love all of you.