Trailer Life Ain't So Bad!
Being indicted by the federal government kind of makes you rethink a lot of things in your life – one of the big ones being finances. We were in a pretty big hole coming out of 2008. Neither of us had jobs, we were in a house in Austin we could not afford, most of our net worth was tied up in Palm Springs real estate (which was in the process of dropping more than 50% in value) and we were headed into the Great Recession. Of course, a lot of other people were in the same situation even without sabotaging themselves like I did. Thanks to a wonderful Orange County start up, we did manage to get back on our feet and were on our way towards planning what looked like a comfortable – if not luxurious – retirement. Of course, my indictment threw all of that into doubt. How much longer would I be able to work? If I ended up in prison, would I be able to find work afterwards? Would Ken be able to find a job after being out of the work force for so long? Would we ever be able to retire? We decided we needed to plan for the worst and hope for the best and that meant reducing our expenses. It also meant figuring out a low cost way for Ken to live in the event I had to go to prison. Usually I am the planner but in this case, Ken had already been doing his homework. He’s always loved all things vintage and mid-century and that includes trailers – both the mobile and not so mobile kind. He wanted to make sure he had a nice affordable place to live so he took it upon himself to find the best trailer park. And he did! He found a beautiful, well maintained, well managed, quiet, 55+ rent controlled park in Palm Springs. One day, right after I had just returned from meeting with the government, he took me to see a trailer in this park that he wanted to buy. It was awful. It was a 1968 Vagabond double wide, was dark and needed a ton of work. I was so depressed. At the time, it seemed like just another in a long list of indignities. But Ken said he would fix it up and make it nice. So we took the plunge and he spent the next three months working his magic. And you know what? It’s great! We love living in a trailer! Who knew? Ken made it cool and fun inside and I worked on creating the nice outdoor spaces that we are known for including our trademark “Costa Rica” room and the “Carport Café!” We have wonderful neighbors and we feel lucky to be here. Best of all, it’s paid for and we’ll always be able to afford to live here. It goes to show you. When you are with the person you love and you throw in a little imagination – any place can be a wonderful home.
What a beautiful testimont to your relationship and your outlook. You and Ken have this way of making lemonaid out of lemons in a real and positive way. You both continue to be an inspiration and example of how to handle adverse situations and not have them defeat you. Sendingyou lots and lots of hugs.
Sandy
Wonderful story, and IT IS WONDERFUL !!!
Thanks, Sandy. The hugs are always appreciated!
David and Ken, you’ve managed to turn this into a very chic mini.
There is a “tiny” movement in real estate–I’m sure you know–with all sorts of successful people opting out of the craziness that has enveloped home owning in the past 20 years. Unique and creative spaces designed to serve multiple functions for those who never want a mortgage again. More lifestyle…less maintenance and financial commitment.
You are right on trend, regardless of the motivation. Congratulations on a superb transition. Enjoying your posts, David!
XO
Anne
Thanks, Anne. We are all about less craziness! Trailer life suits us well!
Having had drinks on the lanai, I can attest to the fact that the place is fabulous!! You have us even thinking of doing the same! You have made a lovely home and more importantly set yourselves up for a comfortable retirement with stability and financial freedom! Good for you my friend…proud of you and Kenny for the good decisions you both make!
So glad you guys were able to come over for snappy cocktails on the front lanai!
David thank you again for the reminder of what’s important in life.