+++ Whoops! Here comes the cheese! +++

redofromstart

I have bought some temporary ones, I am not trying to lose any more weight as I am now (below!) my target but I still want to tone so I may yet change size again in the short term.  Bravissimo in the big bad city is probably the answer. I have added it to my 'be braver' list.

Interesting couple of weeks as I re-connected with my best friend from college, we hadn't spoken in many years so it was good to meet up, clear the air and discover that we now have a shared interest in gardens.  Five minutes in all those years just melted away.  I actually have very few in person friends so this is a huge thing for me.  It gives me someone else to go and look at nice gardens with so the 'burden' isn't entirely on DS1 and @greenbee!

I did listen when people said to wait for the year before I make any major decisions, which was sound advice.  I do feel like I am coming out of a dark tunnel and I can see positive things in the future again.  Even three months ago this didn't seem possible.  I am sharing this in case it helps anyone else going through a similar situation.

I have now decided to sell this house, and start again somewhere new.  Still not sure where but getting this house ready for sale is key to that.  I've had some more quotes for some key works and will make a decision once I have those.  It'll be another major stress in the short term but will vastly improve the saleability and value of the house. Giving myself deadlines helps but I think I need a full project plan for this one.

Cheery_Daff

How lovely to meet up with an old friend 😊 And it sounds like you've taken your time and come to a good decision about the house. It might be stressful but just take your time, no deadlines, go at your own pace and do what feels comfortable. Xx

greenbee

I like looking round gardens! Although I suspect once my mum is better and back at home there won't be many worth looking at!

Sun_Addict

Good to hear you sounding positive about the future and that you've reignited an old friendship. Well done on getting to goal. 

EssexHebridean

That sounds like the right decision for you Redo - and a good call to step aside from it for a while before reaching your conclusion. As hard as it will be to leave behind so many memories, those memories will still be with you, just not in the sort of way that takes you by surprise and feels like a jab in the ribs. 

doingitanyway

That sounds like a measured decision and better to do it sooner so you can settle.
Glad you reconnected with an old friend. We can make new friends but old friends are special 

in_need_of_direction

a well deliberated decision.  fingers crossed you can get someone reliable to get the jobs done around the house

PennysIntoPounds

That all sounds so positive, I'm really pleased for you. Well done on getting through all the firsts x

greent

Echoing what others have said. Hope the planned works go well 😊

Humdinger1

Well done @redofromstart.  You've handled all the hurdles brilliantly.  The decision to move sounds a holistical step forward and as your other friends say, you can do it at your own pavlce.  Love Humdinger xx