Why "Folly"
I have the Webster's definition above. And initially the 19th century English architectural reference is what led me to think of calling my house a folly. In my mind I think of folly as frivolousness and indulgence of every whim. I guess it's my way of acknowledging that I realize this house I'm building is beyond what's necessary for me at my age/stage in life--it's my folly. And to give my house any other name would seem pretentious--I can't take myself that seriously.
At this point I've brought my house activities up to date. For what it's worth, here's where I am on a personal level.
My Chapter 3 was the major life change I made—leaving the area I’d lived for most of my life, my friends from over 40 years, a home I loved, and my very contented lifestyle—for the unknown. Besides the obvious of moving near my daughter and her family, and being closer to my parents, it even surprised me that I was willing to leave my routine and comfortable life. But some of what I was leaving, was why I was leaving. My life had become pretty routine in the last 25 years. It was a happy and pleasant life, but I asked myself: Was I willing to have that same routine for the next 25 years (the last 25)? The answer was No. I needed a change of scene--at least one more adventure in my life. And of course, I sweetened the pot by deciding to build a home for myself. It was a distant, but constant dream--one I never believed would actually happen.
Leaving was easier than I expected. I was ready and more eager than I thought I would be. I was only moving a short plane ride away, so I could visit at least annually--to see friends and visit my favorite shopping haunts. And I truly haven't looked back. The pace and lifestyle in Portland are more casual and relaxed than the Bay Area. I've always been casual (at a certain age I decided I was strictly going to dress for comfort) and I'm definitely enjoying the more relaxed lifestyle.
So there it is.
At this point I've brought my house activities up to date. For what it's worth, here's where I am on a personal level.
My Chapter 3 was the major life change I made—leaving the area I’d lived for most of my life, my friends from over 40 years, a home I loved, and my very contented lifestyle—for the unknown. Besides the obvious of moving near my daughter and her family, and being closer to my parents, it even surprised me that I was willing to leave my routine and comfortable life. But some of what I was leaving, was why I was leaving. My life had become pretty routine in the last 25 years. It was a happy and pleasant life, but I asked myself: Was I willing to have that same routine for the next 25 years (the last 25)? The answer was No. I needed a change of scene--at least one more adventure in my life. And of course, I sweetened the pot by deciding to build a home for myself. It was a distant, but constant dream--one I never believed would actually happen.
Leaving was easier than I expected. I was ready and more eager than I thought I would be. I was only moving a short plane ride away, so I could visit at least annually--to see friends and visit my favorite shopping haunts. And I truly haven't looked back. The pace and lifestyle in Portland are more casual and relaxed than the Bay Area. I've always been casual (at a certain age I decided I was strictly going to dress for comfort) and I'm definitely enjoying the more relaxed lifestyle.
So there it is.
Comments