Life Changes

Some of you are aware that Rocky and I weathered some major life changes in the past two or three years. Rocky’s employer closed its doors after 30 years, Rocky being there for the entire ride. That left Rocky without employment, health insurance or a pension at age 64.5. He got thru the pension thing by retiring and taking Social Security. We cut living costs. We managed to tough it through until Medicare took on health coverage.

Meanwhile I had three health issues combine at the same time and I entered a period of ‘disability.’ Being self employed that also meant unemployed. I used my SEP-IRA funds to pay living expenses and pay down debt so we could transition to my Social Security benefits, too. More cost cutting followed.

We changed out my high cost car and went with a used Ford. We took a federal modification of the mortgage and lowered that monthly cost. We talked to our doctors and they cooperated with fees and medication choices so we are both at lower cost.

Still the pinch is on. We barely have enough income to cover expenses by month-end, and have done the dance of food versus meds often! We are not alone. Millions do the same each month. Along the way Rocky sold his car so we are now managing with one.

Thursday we visited an elder apartment complex and applied for a low income slot. We are on a waiting list. The apartment is fine: 1050 square feet, two bedrooms, one bath. Heat is included as is garbage, water and sewer. No property taxes. No HOA dues. Packaged phone/cable TV is provided at low cost with upgrades as we choose and can afford. Electric is on us but air conditioning is limited.

Here’s what we have to adjust to: no garage, no gas stove, no private laundry, small kitchen with no dinette area; living room and dining area are small and combined; limited storage. But the complex is only five years old and in great condition; 105 units with 125 residents. All 62 or older, much older.

We would also be living in Bartlett, not Warrenville. I would have to give up my seat on the Park District board, but we would continue with the Chamber of Commerce, the newspaper, church and Arts Council involvements.

Rocky may receive free studio space in exchange for teaching ceramics to residents and sharing his equipment. Meanwhile I can continue to write my blog, and find new volunteer outlets in what will become our new community.

None of this is decided. Actively considering and on the waiting list. We may find another alternative.

Changes. We all go through them. Some we plan; others we do not. We adapt and move on. We learn from this, too. We expand and grow even while cutting back and downsizing. It is all good in one way or another. It need not be unpleasant or fearful.

We would rather be doing this in Warrenville where we know lots of people and are well integrated with community life and rhythm. We will continue to be involved, but there will be changes: lessening and slowly pulling back.

Why don’t communities understand that alternate housing is needed by some of their people? And that it is good if the need is addressed?

January 14, 2012