I want a simple, cute cottage with a good sized master bed, big master bath, big kitchen and a small living room and an office that can double as a guest room for two when we have visitors. I don't want the living room right in the same room as the kitchen because Sarah makes too much noise when she cooks and it becomes impossible to read or watch tv. It would be nice if we had a laundry room but a stackable washer/dryer that fits in a closet will do. There should be enough storage for holiday decorations, suitcases, garden equipment and some of recreation equipment (bikes, tents, sleeping bags, etc.). I want a nice space to sit in the yard, and a victory garden.
I dream of finding a space like this that is green and sustainable, where we can collect rain water and reuse grey water for toilets and garden use, and where we get energy from solar and wind power. Composting is a must of course, and the house would be as energy efficient as possible too, and perhaps made of recycled materials.
It could be a small space close enough to downtown to feel we have access to the best of Portland, but far enough out that we don't deal with constant noise and dirt. This would be a home I'd never move away from and would live in until I had to die.
Speaking of which, I'd prefer a simple pine box funeral, no embalming, maybe my body planted under a nice tree. My family is on a different path in life than I am and I don't think they'll miss visiting my grave much, which is fine. I'd rather those who knew me at my best would have that access, if they wanted it. That is, my Portland friends. I really have found my happiest moments with Sarah, with my pets, in nature, and with occasional seasonal friends. I find other people are not as gentle and kind as I prefer - I like peace and quiet, and sometimes I find that best when I am alone. On fierce days, that makes me a golden eagle, free as a wild thing can get. On others, that makes me a cat, content to curl up in a sunny patch in the garden. Solitary, but not disengaged. Don't take this to me I am not a human with the same need for love and sex as anyone else - I love and need Sarah and a small group of nice friends in my life too.
I could finish my working years out, take on more and more small adventures such as our upcoming Habitat for Humanity build in Guatemala, and live out my days quite contentedly. Maybe I'd paint again or even write that book. I'd cultivate a group of peers who like me, want only peace and goodness, and who aren't into competition or money just for the sake of money.
I think I can envision a simple, sweet old life, filled with new things and a generosity of spirit.
