Hello from Round Rock
“In 1851, on the banks of Brushy Creek, a small community was formed near a large, round rock located in the middle of the stream. This environmentally smoothed stone marked a convenient low-water crossing for wagons, horses, and cattle. The first postmaster called the community Brushy Creek, then in 1854 the small settlement was renamed Round Rock.” Current population: 142,000.
My residence is now a 1,000 sf apartment (2-2, about the size of a pickleball court). Squeezing in involved downsizing and de-cluttering, both of which were painful, but successful. Before throwing away anything that I once cared about, I took a photo to preserve the memory. Then, straight to the big trash can.
After two months here, there are a few positives. No more house to take care of (after 50+ years of owning progressively larger ones). The weather is predictable (hot as hades). The apartment is first-class with a modern elevator and views out to the flat Texas countryside from the third floor balcony. The other residents are mostly friendly, the staff is competent. Location is convenient to everything I need. Covered parking. (It’s 90% SUV’s parked here. Maybe that’s the new normal.)
A recent happy hour was hosted in our fancy clubhouse. Good food, lots of Hawaiian shirts, not enough chairs.
It is sweltering here and there are plenty of bugs, which I had forgotten about after 20 years away from the humidity. Open your lift-gate to throw in your gym bag, and a buzzy fly gets in your car.
Also, plenty of slithery snakes, stinky rats and sneaky cockroaches. So far, none have hidden under the kitchen sink nor my bed. I have learned that having no dining table is fine (see photo). Sit at the counter and be happy on a rotating stool, feet safely off the fake wood vinyl floor.
All the friends I left behind in Colorado Springs can never be replaced. I’m making a start but it’s uphill. I do have hope. There are no private clubs here similar to the Springs Country Club of Colo. It’s only golf. Therefore my exercise choices are limited to Gold’s Gym (the best), Crunch Fitness (too crowded) and Planet Fitness (10 miles up the road).
My friend Judy has been helpful. Both she and my other friend Dan have been to visit and dined with me. Judy mentioned fixing me up (she lives in a 55+ community, lots of single women.) However, as she explains: “None of my female neighbors want to deal with another man in their lives.”
It is hell getting old, I am determined to make the best of it anyway.
Miss every one of you a bunch.
For better or worse, I am now using WordPress to host my newsletter. Forgive the molasses-like speed.
Bill, I always enjoy receiving your newsletter – a great way for you to keep all your friends updated on your various activities. Just wondering – what precipitated your move back to Texas? I realize that is your home but I assumed you loved Colorado. Joan and I are fine – enjoying retirement more than ever. Would enjoy seeing you – if you plan a trip to the southeast, please put us on your agenda…Dan B., Auburn, AL
Thank you for sharing this update. I loved reading it- and I smiled at your wit as always. A reminder how I miss our daily chats at the gym. You were such a bright part of my mornings. I laughed at the Hawaiian shirts, the rotating stool, and your commentary on the Texas wildlife lol. It sounds like you’ve handled such a huge life transition with so much grace, humor, and hope, even though I know it hasn’t always been easy. I hope, with time, this new place begins to feel more like home and that you find the kind of friendships that make it feel that way. Until then, just know you left behind friends in Colorado Springs who think of you often. Sending you a big hug!…Jessica R., CO
Bill, What took you to Texas? I thought Round Rock was near hill country (Peggy used to live in Austin and her brother and sister-in-law lived in Bertram (?) for a while). It’s pretty out there (much prettier than the Texas we used to live in – Houston). You know, I keep thinking that Peggy and I need to move into a senior living place, but so far we haven’t. We’re too lazy (that downsizing thing is really scary). But, at least for now, we have an excuse: until we sell my brother’s house, we’re not ready to sell this one…John P., Tucson
Congrats for going to press. Good for making the effort. I enjoyed our rendezvous, and salute your whipping your place into shape for visitors. Hopefully, you’ll have new friends and wimmin through your door in due time. That really is a nice facility…well-planned and appointed for your more relaxed lifestyle. My best as you continue to settle in. Let me know if I can help in any way. We’ll get together again soon…Dan B., Austin
Dear Bill, Thanks for sharing. You keep giving me insight to my own future. Getting older does suck indeed. The heat and humidity here has been oppressive. But hardly any insect concerns. Life goes on I have some 7-10 mowing customers weekly, bi-monthly, and a couple only once a month. Barb is doing well enough. We got a little Shih Tzu about a year ago. So that is her companion while I’m out mowing. All’s well here. I wish you the best… John H., TN
Great job on the news update…. Bill. And a good pick, apparently, on where you are there – back in Texas. I like that. Stay with it on the friends – girls and boys – with all the talents, interests and points of connection you have – your “buds list” will fill out pretty quickly. Keep doing the good stuff…. and remembering all the good people…Gere G., AR
Hi Bill, Looks like you really did it! Good for you. It always takes time to adjust! Wishing you all the best, you look great, take care, Karen B., CO
Welcome back to Texas! We read your newsletter. Two of our best friends just moved into a senior living apartment in San Antonio, probably similar to yours. So far we are resisting. How about letting us (Karen and myself) take you to lunch tomorrow or Thursday?…Bob A., Austin
Great email. Thanks, Bill! Happy 4th of July!…Ian A., CO
Hey Bill, Great to hear from you. Remind us why you left beautiful Colorado for a return to Texas😏We’ll keep up that friendship…Val T., Seattle
Bill. I just checked the temp on our deck. The wood measured 151 degrees. My plants were screaming for water. Hope you enjoy your new confines. We are very happy with our setup here in Independence Village…Michael P, San Antonio
Moved back to Texas, huh? This time of the year, I always wonder why I did not have something in Co. I still have tons of projects, and still too much free time. Come on down some time, we’ll make some Titanium book marks, and color them any color you like…Bill K., The Woodlands
Bill, Enjoyed your update and admire your confrontation of aging in such a decisive manner. I trust you will maintain your intellectual curiosity as well as maintain good relationships with today’s young whippersnappers… Steve H., San Francisco