Apartment Scouting Adventure

Today I am traveling from Des Moines to Denver to embark on a new adventure...Apartment Scouting. It has been awhile since I have had to do apartment searching. Hunney Pants and I have been living in the house in Des Moines for so long we forgot what it was like (Even though I grew up in California and am more used to the Metro way of life).

Because we are moving to a NEW area neither of us have lived, we decided to sell the house here and get an apartment out in Denver South until we know the area better. We are still keeping our eyes open for condos and homes etc, but apartment life is going to be the way for us for a little while.

Everyone looks for different things when home hunting and some are even refined for apartment hunting. I have a general way of looking at things no matter what. Hunney and I actually put together a Google Sheets with the things and started Ranking them based on the following:

1. Look and feel of the apartment/home on its own merits. Does it have the bedrooms we need, the living space we desire and the amenities of the apartment that appeal to us the most being : A good layout, washer and dryer IN the unit itself, and the appliances we desire.
2. The look and feel of the complex: Is it in a good neighborhood, what are the surroundings like, are the exterior buildings kept up in good shape, does the property keep it clean and not falling apartment.
3. The neighbors: Can I hear a child screaming through the walls, are there tons of college age kids partying around or kids running amuck, and do the neighbors scents and smells exude to the place I am looking at?
4. I look at online reviews and take heed to what others rave about or complain about. If it appears that the only reviews came from the community, it is likely they are unreal. If there is a mix of good and bad, does the good outweigh the bad? And what they complain about matters too? Is it BS complaints or are they saying real things about the landlords, community or the leasing company?
5. The neighborhood surrounding the community: Is it in a good area? Is the area run down? Am "I" the minority? Would I feel safe? Is it newer or older? What is within walking distance and what do I have to drive to? How hard is it to get to the things I need, use and will want on a regular basis.
6. WalkScore: There is a site called www.walkscore.com and this told us how close or far things are. The place we are in now has a Walkscore of 14, the places we are looking at are anywhere from 47 to 76. Meaning, a higher walkscore means things are ready available in walking distance.
7. Is the price worthy of all of the above? If I don't feel it is, I won't stay there.
8. Parking: Are there garages, carports, how many to each apt, do we have to pay extra for them or does it come with?
9. Do they allow pets? For us currently we have three. In a way I am glad because that REALLY narrowed down our search. What are their rules on pets, deposit, monthly pet rents etc.
10. Distance to work? This is for Hunney because he has to drive. Close, far, freeway, how long?
11. Meeting places for me: Are there business spaces I can use on site or do I have to go off site all the time?
12. Smoking or non Smoking: With me having migraines all the time, smoking is a huge issue.
13. Psycho Application: Meaning did we have to or do we have to jump through hoops to get in the place?
14. Friendliness: Once I DID start talking to people, how kind were they, were they stuffy, was it a call center or did I talk to an ON SITE mgr?
15. Budget: For the things they offer is the price worth it in our budget?

We take into consideration MANY things I don't think other renters or buyers are looking at. I honestly think a lot of people just show up and lay the money down.

To my credit, my mother used to be a rental manager so I think of a lot of things others don't. To boot, Hunney and I are VERY picky.

I am looking forward to this excursion and finding a place that will be our new home for the next twelve months.

I also recognize that Hunney Pants has a lot of faith in me. He helped with research but ultimately he is leaving the decision to me and he won't even see the home or surroundings until we arrive to unpack and pick up our keys! 

That's another reason why I gave myself enough time. Once I find the place, then I want to REALLY get to know the surroundings so I can help us acclimate.

This is a very exciting time in our lives. For the first time we BOTH will be in an unknown area and get the chance to explore it TOGETHER and once married, as newleyweds!

Huzzah to new adventures!!

Until Next Time,

XoXo Trisha Trixie

Selling with a Checklist: The Trixie Way

This is our Selling Checklist. This is another one I found online. Again, it is a helpmate, but I realize not everything pertains to us.

We made many repairs before we even listed, however, I failed to realize all the MANY things we would STILL need to do even after we listed the house. GAH!!

Hope this helps you if you are selling your home too!

To Do List

Selling House

Project / Task

The condition of your home's exterior is most important when it comes to buyer appeal. Touch up trim paint on doors, window frames, fascia, etc.

If your lawn shows no signs of life, a little fertilizer and some water will do wonders for its color. Mow and edge the lawn frequently until the home is sold.

Overgrown shrubbery should be cut back to show as much of the exterior as possible.

A low-cost investment in seasonal flowers or ground cover will add a personal touch.

Replace missing shutters, gutters, and downspouts and remove any debris.

Inspect the roof for necessary repairs and any visible broken shingles or tiles.

Cracks in the driveway and sidewalks can be easily repaired with ready-mix cement. For excessive stains, there are easy-to-use cleaning agents at your home repair store.

Stucco water stains can be repaired using a mild bleaching agent.

Fences should be mended and painted.

If the street sweeper does not come every week, make sure the area in front of your curb and driveway are clear of debris. Wash it down with the hose.

Wash all windows inside and outside.

All of these suggestions may also apply to your back yard or child's play area.

Clean your home from top to bottom.

Put all valuables in a safe place.

Repair any cracks or holes in walls and touch-up paint.

Doors should be cleaned and touched-up as well. All torn screens should be repaired or replaced.

Avoid repainting the entire house unless current colors are very loud or offbeat. White or light pastels are the easiest for new homeowners to work with and they make your rooms look larger.

Have carpeting and draperies cleaned.

Carpeting should be vacuumed throughout the house the day your home is being shown.

If you have a fireplace, make sure all tile is in good condition, the screen is in good shape, and the hearth is clean.

Lubricate squeaking doors, windows, and cabinets.

Put deodorizers in each room and closet.

Store out-of-season clothes so closets do not look cluttered.

Pre-pack items, which may clutter your home and make rooms appear smaller.

A few colorful plants will help liven and add color to the interior.

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the house. Keep the counters clean and clear of appliances. All appliances should be clean and neatly organized. An open appearance with sunlight and green plants here and there will make the room a focal point. Make it light and bright!

Never leave dirty dishes in the sink.

Clean and wax the kitchen floor. If the floor looks old and dull, consider replacing the flooring.

Clean fans and vent hoods.

All bathroom appliances should be thoroughly cleaned. Remove stains from sinks, toilets, and bathtubs.

Replace old caulking around bathtub and sinks.

Repair or replace leaky faucets.

Unclog and sanitize drains to remove odors.

Clean all mirrors.

Keep all toilet seat lids closed.

Fresh towels should be in the bathrooms at all times.

Have a garage sale to dispose of any unwanted items. Family heirlooms, which you will take with you, should be boxed and stored in the garage until you move.

Degreasers are available at your local home repair store to remove stains from the garage floor.

Remove any cobwebs.

If the basement or attic is a functioning part of the house, make sure the area is clean and in good repair.

Dust and vacuum the whole house thoroughly.

Lightly clean and straighten up living areas.

Open all drapes and blinds to let in as much light as possible. Turn on lamps and other lights as necessary to brighten each room.

If you're planning to move around the same time you're selling your home, try to arrange showings while the furniture is still in the house.

Any household or children's items should be stored away. This includes toys, bikes, skateboards, etc.

Turn television sets off. Turn on a radio with soft music at low volume.

While your home is being held open, arrange to spend the time away from the house, especially if you have small children. If this is not possible, go for a walk, visit a neighbor, or keep children quiet when your home is being shown to prospects.

Keep pets away from potential buyers and keep pet areas clean.

Your agent may request to serve refreshments. If not, feel free to suggest this.

Try baking chocolate chip cookies or brownies just before the open house. A pleasant aroma means �home� to many people.

Once the open house begins, let your agent do the job. Do not try to assist unless asked by the agent showing your home.

If you're trying to sell any household items, do not bring this up, unless you are asked. Remember to keep your valuables in a safe place.

Should a buyer stop by when your not having an open house, refer all inquires to your agent. Feel free to answer questions the buyer might have, but again, refer as much as possible to your agent, as he/she will be able to answer in the most positive manner.

Save visiting agents' business cards for your agent. Write down the date on the back of the visiting agent's business card and indicate if the agent had buyers with them.

Notify your agent if you'll be out of town and how to contact you. Timing is EVERYTHING!

Moving with a Checklist: The Trixie Way to Go

Moving. The every daunting task. If moving out of one home was all there was, I think it would nto be so daunting. However, we have Sell the house, pack, find a new place, arrange trailers or trucks, move to new place unpack and yeah, oh by the way, plan a wedding and handle two businesses along with your health issues.

Hey, but I'm not complaining. (Ok I am a little) I keep telling myself "I wanted this" so as not to kill myself for suggesting it. I found a sheet on line that I am using to help me do everything needed for the move.

There are a few things on here I don't need because I don't have littles (however I do have cats) and some things don't apply, but for the most part, this is ONE of the sheets I am using. I have a whole other one for selling the house (I'll do that post next) but for now, this to me comes first. Either way, we are moving and all these things need to be done.

It is all a bit daunting to me, but I know one way or the other it will get done even if it isn't in my perfect little checklist or order.

I am using this to help me along the way so I don't go cray cray.

Some would say, the ship has sailed on that one ! :)

Hope this helps you if you are moving.

Or perhaps you are a follower or friend who delights in the life of Trisha Trixie and how she handles thing in her world.

Ok, I am talking in third person now....I things the moving has gotten to me. :)

TTFN...
XOXO Trisha Trixie

Moving Checklist
		Moving Checklist by Vertex42.com
		© 2010 Vertex42 LLC
	1-2 Months Before Move
	[ ]	Create binder/folder for moving records (estimates, receipts, inventory lists, etc.)
	[ ]	Plan your moving method (truck rental, hiring movers, etc) and get cost estimates
	[ ]	See if your employer will provide moving expense benefits
	[ ]	Research storage facilities if needed
	[ ]	Schedule disconnection/connection of utilities at old and new place
		[ ] Phone [ ] Internet [ ] Cable [ ] Water [ ] Garbage [ ] Gas [ ] Electric
	[ ]	Plan how you will move vehicles, plants, pets and valuables
	[ ]	Plan how you will arrange furniture in the new place - use a floor plan or sketch
	[ ]	Hold a garage sale, donate, sell, or trash unnecessary items
	[ ]	Schedule transfer of records (medical, children in school, etc.)
	[ ]	Get copies of any records needed (medical, dental, etc.)
	[ ]	Acquire packing materials (boxes, tape, stuffing/padding, markers, etc.)
	[ ]	Make any home repairs that you have committed to making
	[ ]	Return borrowed, checked-out and rented items
	[ ]	Get things back that you have lent out
	[ ]	Start using up food you have stored so there is less to move
	3-4 Weeks Before Move
	[ ]	Finalize moving method and make necessary arrangements
	[ ]	Begin packing non-essential items
	[ ]	Label boxes by room and contents
	[ ]	Separate valuable items to transport yourself - label as DO NOT MOVE
	[ ]	Keep a box out for storing pieces, parts and essential tools that you will want
		to keep with you on move day - label as PARTS / DO NOT MOVE
	[ ]	Create an inventory list of items and box contents, including serial numbers
		of major items - use this as an opportunity to update your home inventory
	[ ]	Fill out a Change of Address form at a post office or online
	[ ]	Provide important contacts with your new address:
		[ ] Employers [ ] Family & Friends [ ] Attorney [ ] Accountant [ ] Others
	[ ]	Notify your insurance and credit card companies about change of address
	[ ]	Cancel automated payment plans and local accounts/memberships if necessary
	[ ]	Take your vehicle(s) in for a tune-up, especially if you are traveling very far
	1-2 Weeks Before Move
	[ ]	Continue packing and clean as you go
	[ ]	Pack items separately that you will need right away at your new place
	[ ]	Plan to take the day off for moving day
	[ ]	Find useful things for your children to do - involve them as much as possible
	[ ]	Find someone to help watch small children on move day
	[ ]	Begin to pack your suitcases with clothes and personal items for the trip
	[ ]	Reconfirm your method of moving with those involved
	[ ]	Make sure your prescriptions are filled
	[ ]	Empty out your safe deposit box, secure those items for safe travel
	[ ]	Schedule cancellation of services for your old place
		[ ] Newspaper [ ] Housecleaning [ ] Lawn [ ] Pool [ ] Water Delivery
	[ ]	Check your furniture for damages - note damages on your inventory
	[ ]	Take furniture apart if necessary (desks, shelves, etc.)
	[ ]	Make sure all paperwork for the old and new place is complete
	[ ]	If traveling far, notify credit card company to prevent automated deactivation
	[ ]	Get rid of flammables such as paint, propane, and gasoline
	[ ]	Try and use up perishable food
	2-4 Days Before Move
	[ ]	Confirm all moving details and that you have necessary paperwork
	[ ]	Make a schedule or action plan for the day of the move
	[ ]	Plan when/how to pick up the truck (if rented)
	[ ]	Prepare for the moving expenses (moving, food, lodging)
	[ ]	Continue cleaning the house as you are packing
	[ ]	Defrost your freezer and clean the fridge
	[ ]	Make sure essential tools are handy (screwdrivers, wrench, pliers, tape, etc)
	[ ]	Pack a bag for water bottles, pen/paper, snacks, documents, and essentials
	[ ]	Set aside boxes/items that you are moving yourself (make sure you'll have room)
	Moving Day
	[ ]	Remove bedding and take apart beds
	[ ]	Go early to pick up the truck if you rented one
	[ ]	Take movers/helpers through the house to inform them of what to do
	[ ]	Walk through the empty place to check for things left behind - look behind doors
	[ ]	Leave your contact info for new residents to forward mail
	[ ]	Take inventory before movers leave, sign bill of lading
	[ ]	Make sure your movers have the correct new address
	[ ]	Lock the windows and doors, turn off the lights
	[ ]	Use a padlock to lock up a rented truck
		At your new place …
	[ ]	Verify utilities are working - especially power, water, heating, and cooling
	[ ]	Perform an initial inspection, note all damages, take photographs if needed
	[ ]	Clean the kitchen and vacuum as needed (especially where furniture will be going)
	[ ]	Direct movers/helpers where to put things
	[ ]	Offer drinks and snacks, especially if the helpers are volunteers
	[ ]	Assemble beds with bedding
	[ ]	Begin unpacking, starting with kitchen, bathroom and other essentials
	Moving In - Weeks 1-2
	[ ]	Check for damages while unpacking - be aware of deadline for insurance claims
	[ ]	Replace locks if necessary and make at least 2 copies of your new keys
	[ ]	Confirm that mail is now arriving at your new address
	[ ]	Make sure your previous utilities have been paid for and canceled
	[ ]	Complete your change of address checklist
		[ ] Bank(s) [ ] Credit Cards [ ] IRS [ ] Loans [ ] Insurance [ ] Pension plans
		[ ] Attorney [ ] Accountant [ ] Physicians [ ] Family support
		[ ] Newspapers [ ] Magazines [ ] Licenses [ ] Memberships
	[ ]	Schedule a time to get a local driving license and update vehicle registration
	[ ]	Get local phonebooks and maps
	[ ]	Find new doctors, dentists, etc, depending on your needs & insurance
	[ ]	After you are moved in, update your home inventory, including photos of rooms
	[ ]	Update your renters insurance or homeowners insurance if needed

Being in a Relationship

Every morning I wake up with my Hunney Pants and do things to help him out the door.

I sometimes make tea (an sometimes he makes it to wake me up)

when he gets in the shower, I get up and Auto Start his Jeep

Then I prepare his lunch for him, sending him off with something for a snack, something for a mini morning meal, something for lunch (sandwich, soup ingredients he just adds water, or something like ramen etc), make his tea mix for him adding Black tea, roobis, matcha, yerba mate, ginger, gotu kola, ginseng, a little stevia leaves to sweeten, and sometimes a touch of cardamon, cinnamon, black pepper chai mix or some dried fruit berries. From time to time I toss in a little love note to wish him well or let him know how much I appreciate him.

Once in awhile I may pick out his clothes for him or help him match things up. From time to time he asks me what sweater goes with what. (He is a sweater, zip up or pullover guy because his office is always cold no matter the temp)...ps. I love sweater or vest guys. :)

Then he generally asks me the weather for the morning and for the day. I look it up on my tablet or smart phone and this decides which coat he wears.

Then I clean up my messes while he gathers his things for the day.

Once he is ready, we always hug, sometimes a peck on the lips or cheek or forehead, and then he is on his merry way. He asks me my plans for the day and we discuss each others day for a moment.

I stand at the door with the kitty cats, watching him leave. I want to make sure he gets out ok, no accidents pulling out of the driveway (our block seems to drive pretty fast) and drives away.

Then I lock the front glass door and carry on my business or tasks.

To some these may seem small or minute to some. However, they are dearly important to the both of us. I help him get ready. He helps me get awake. We take care of each other and we don't leave things one to the other to do alone.

Being in a relationship is more than just a title. To me it is not only a privilege but an honor. I know my ways and views are very "RETRO" but this is how I think, I breathe I live...in a retro state of mind.

We care for each other. We take care of each other. We are interested in what the other is doing. We are engaged in communication. We do things to ensure the other is loved, tended to and cared for.

We know each other's Love Language and we respond to what the other needs. My tops are praise/encouragement and Gifts. His is Physical Touch and Quality Time.

I love my relationship with my Hunney Pants (our nickname for each other) and I know without a shadow of a doubt the he loves me and his relationship with me.

Being in a relationship is not about the wedding, the ring, the kissing, the title or all the external things in life.

Being in a relationship, a good one, is loving each other fully, wholly and 100% on each side.

I feel lucky and honored to be able to call him my fiancee' love him as well as our relationship.

Until Next Time,
Trisha Trixie

My Roadmap to Peace and Happiness

I live my life through voracious eyes like a child. Everything I do, see, touch I take in like a new experience, though I have never seen it before. I taste the air, I envision my future. I touch the world.

I savor life to it's fullest, because I never know which day could be my last.

I tell my friends and family TRULY how I feel and let them know their importance to me, how much I appreciate them, and how much I dearly cherish their friendship.

I aim to be positive no matter what life throws at me.

I know I cannot control the experiences (good or bad) that happen to me or around me, but I can control how I let it affect me and my mood.

Sometimes, I have a good cry, and then I meditate and go on my merry way. We all need the good with the bad.

We need the bitter to taste the sweet. However, we do not have to live in the "badlands of feelings" we can conquer it, we can overcome.

 Each day, each, moment, each breath is a gift. That is why it is called "The Present" I do not live in the past or allow my past to define me.

I do not allow toxic people to keep darkening my door.

I do not allow negative influences, such as negative posts, words, toxic people, tv, radio etc to diminish my level of happiness.

I set and keep boundaries to maintain my happiness. I stand for my rights, desires, and beliefs. I know I am "enough" in all I do and how I am.

When I realize I am "out of whack" chakras are off or I just don't feel "at one" with myself, I stop, take a breath and do all I can to recenter myself.

I am not afraid to ask for help, healing, or connection because I know that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength to know who I am really am and be solid enough and strong enough to reach out for assistance or to take it when it is offered to me.

I am still learning the fine art of saying "NO" and when I realize I have taken on too much, do whatever I can to back down from those things or reach out and ask for someone to assist or take over.

I allow others the freedom and desire to assist because I know it helps them as much as it helps me.

My testimony is strong because I have walked through fire and did not get burned. I may have been singed a little but I came out alive. Alive from the hurt, the heartaches, the hardships and the trials.

I know those trials will have a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow because "blessings come after a trial of faith."

I can stand firm in the eye of a storm now, because I know the wind will die down or I have the choice to walk through the hurricane and suffer the consequences or wait until the storm passes, or bomb has been dropped, etc and dust myself off, check for holes, patch them up if there are any, put a smile on my face...and carry on.

Through the help of Brave Girls Club and many others like Leonie Dawson, Michelle Ward, Jessica Swift, Jaime Ridler, Danielle La Porte, Brene Brown, Elizabeth Gilbert and more, I have ascended to a higher way of thinking.

So many times people think my life is easy, or simple, or I have a perfect life. That could be non further from the truth.

Success, happiness, joy, luck, opportunity, etc doesn't not land at my feet or magically appear for me.

I work at it! I strive for it! I am determined to attain it. I pray for it, ask for it and manifest it by doing those things with a belief in my heart of attainment, however knowing, if my desire does not happen, then it was not meant to be so and I learn my lesson and move on.

I suffered many trials to get where I am today.

I endured many hardships. I suffered much loss. I witnessed more of my fair share. I have been broken down, I was fragile like glass, I fell off a few shelves.

The difference in me than others at times?

I did not stay down for long. I lifted myself back up, always with help either from a human or a higher power greater than me.

I did not happenstance upon the life I lead.

The difference is I choose happiness.

I chose Fabulous.

I chose to live.

Until next time,
XoXo Trisha Trixie