Hi, All,
I hope everyone is well and you are enjoying the WARM weather...
We did for about two seconds over the weekend, but yesterday the temps dropped back down to the 40's and an icy fog clung to the city like a cheap dress. Will it ever end?
Like the Dementors in the Harry Potter tales, this weather is certainly sucking out the happiness of me and many other Chicagoans. But tomorrow is another day and hopefully some wizard will scream "EXPECTO PETRONUM!!!!!" and send those vial creatures away from here.
I'd like to thank all of you who had dropped by yesterday for your words of encouragement and support. I REALLY needed them. Sadly I received bad news shortly after I had posted, my mortgage broker screwed up the numbers on my paperwork and it looks like I may not be able to buy my new place after all. Of course, I'm angry. They put me in a very bad position. I have already paid for several flights and have ordered my things for the remodel. Not to mention setting up the electric, cable, and internet accounts. ALL with deposits... I will be spending most of today canceling everything once I get the official news. The lender is still trying to crunch numbers, but I'd have to put down another 10K, and that would eat up most of my remodeling money. So I'm not sure if I want to move into a place that is incredibly dated and not functional. So we shall see. I will keep you all posted.
Today is also the first Wednesday of the month and all of us know what that is. It's the Insecure Writer's Support Group or the IWSG... founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh...
Are you insecure? Do you have soothing advice to give for those of us who are in distress? Then please hop over the Alex's site to sign up. Or just to visit other amazing bloggers who may benefit from your comment or whom may help you...
Funny, my situation does not make me insecure at all. This is BEYOND my control. Sorting things out does help. If you feel overwhelmed by a problem. Take a step back... clear your head... is there anything you can do to change your situation? Ask yourself this question. If the answer is "No," then take a deep breath and move on. It's all you can do. Focus on how to make your situation easier for you to get through it.
On the plus side, my new client is a total delight. She is fun, openminded, and truly ready to bring her space into the 21st century. I love clients like her. Because by helping her create a beautiful and functional space, I will be bringing joy to her life. A home is a haven to be cherished and loved. It is where we feel safe and SECURE. And if our home life does reflect this, then it will give us to strength to hit, head on, any obstacles in our way.
So in the celebration of Spring, why not brighten up your space with some lovely Spring flowers. Maybe throw some colorful pillows onto your sofa or favorite chair. Clean your windows to let in all the beautiful sunshine. Or just don on a colorful sweater or shirt.... It may put a SPRING into your step.
Have a wonderful day everyone! And thanks again for always being here for me and for each other!
UPDATE: Loan fell through... time to scramble!
I hope everyone is well and you are enjoying the WARM weather...
We did for about two seconds over the weekend, but yesterday the temps dropped back down to the 40's and an icy fog clung to the city like a cheap dress. Will it ever end?
Like the Dementors in the Harry Potter tales, this weather is certainly sucking out the happiness of me and many other Chicagoans. But tomorrow is another day and hopefully some wizard will scream "EXPECTO PETRONUM!!!!!" and send those vial creatures away from here.
I'd like to thank all of you who had dropped by yesterday for your words of encouragement and support. I REALLY needed them. Sadly I received bad news shortly after I had posted, my mortgage broker screwed up the numbers on my paperwork and it looks like I may not be able to buy my new place after all. Of course, I'm angry. They put me in a very bad position. I have already paid for several flights and have ordered my things for the remodel. Not to mention setting up the electric, cable, and internet accounts. ALL with deposits... I will be spending most of today canceling everything once I get the official news. The lender is still trying to crunch numbers, but I'd have to put down another 10K, and that would eat up most of my remodeling money. So I'm not sure if I want to move into a place that is incredibly dated and not functional. So we shall see. I will keep you all posted.
Today is also the first Wednesday of the month and all of us know what that is. It's the Insecure Writer's Support Group or the IWSG... founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh...
Are you insecure? Do you have soothing advice to give for those of us who are in distress? Then please hop over the Alex's site to sign up. Or just to visit other amazing bloggers who may benefit from your comment or whom may help you...Funny, my situation does not make me insecure at all. This is BEYOND my control. Sorting things out does help. If you feel overwhelmed by a problem. Take a step back... clear your head... is there anything you can do to change your situation? Ask yourself this question. If the answer is "No," then take a deep breath and move on. It's all you can do. Focus on how to make your situation easier for you to get through it.
On the plus side, my new client is a total delight. She is fun, openminded, and truly ready to bring her space into the 21st century. I love clients like her. Because by helping her create a beautiful and functional space, I will be bringing joy to her life. A home is a haven to be cherished and loved. It is where we feel safe and SECURE. And if our home life does reflect this, then it will give us to strength to hit, head on, any obstacles in our way.
So in the celebration of Spring, why not brighten up your space with some lovely Spring flowers. Maybe throw some colorful pillows onto your sofa or favorite chair. Clean your windows to let in all the beautiful sunshine. Or just don on a colorful sweater or shirt.... It may put a SPRING into your step.
Have a wonderful day everyone! And thanks again for always being here for me and for each other!
UPDATE: Loan fell through... time to scramble!
59 comments:
Man, that really sucks! The mortgage broker should have to make up the difference. His mistake. Or they just make it work without that extra money required. Really sorry, Michael.
You're right, if you can't control what happens, why stress over it.
And that's exactly how I feel - my home should be a secure place, a safe haven. When the rest of the world is beating me up and I can retreat there and be at peace.
Ugh, Michael. I am so sorry for all your buying/moving issues. Totally puffs! Sometimes things in our lives just don't make sense. Or they happen for a reason. Or they don't. Yeah, I'm a load of help, aren't I? Just know you're attitude about control or lack there of is a healthy one. It will get your to the other side of this. And you WILL see the sun, again. ;)
So very sorry, Michael. I know what you mean about not having control over things. Sometime it's hard to see when you're going through them, but sometimes these hard things are there to open up things for something good you didn't imagine. I think that may have happened in my job situation although I'm still sorting it out like you are on your move. Thanks for the great way to look at it. And today should be a warm day for you and a nice weekend is coming up.
I'm glad you are deciding that this is something there is no point in worrying about. It is so good to know that. People tell me they are worried about someone and I say - make them a pie - clean their garage - but don't worry about them. You sound like a smart cookie so will make the best of this situation.
That sucks about your lender! I hope he/she can figure something out. And I hear you about the weather. When I got back from Florida last week it was chilly here, too, way too chilly for May for Heaven's sake. But this week is turning out nice and I actually went to work Monday and Tuesday without a coat for the first time since last fall! Yay! I sure hope things work out for you with your new place.
That's terrible. How could they make such a mistake? You do have a good attitude about the situation, though.
I actually built a raised flowerbed and planed flowers. Me! Hope they don't all die.
Oh wow, I'm so sorry, Michael. I can't believe it. I admire your attitude, I don't know if I could manage it after getting that kind of news. Hugs to you!!
Love that you can see what is in your control and what isn't. So sorry to hear this is happening to you.
I'm am so sorry you won't be able to buy your place and have to spend the day fixing the things you already did and paid for. That would give me one big headache. I just moved so I know what all of that is like. Knowing what is in your control is the only way to stay sane.
Oh, wow! How awful! Hugs, Michael. :(
I hope something better comes along to brighten your life very soon.
IWSG #134 until Alex culls the list again.
Oh, I am very sorry to hear this! Yes, you have every right to be angry. That's the mortgage broker's JOB, to get the numbers right. I hope the numbers can still crunch out the right way for you. Fingers crossed.
And that's what I didn't want to hear, Michael. I know how disappointed you must be, and I'm so sorry. This happened to friends of mine, but they did finally sign a contract and they love their new place. Hang in there. I'm sending as many positive thoughts your direction as I can.
Glad you enjoy what you do. Easy clients are great. The bad ones make you appreciate the good ones.
Some things are just not in our control. Ugh. Life. I am also an MG writer. I grew up in IL and lived outside of Chicago for a decade. In fact, Chitown is the setting for my new MG UF! Nice to meet you:)
Ugh! I know that feeling, Michael. Here's hoping those number will sort themselves out and you can move as planned. Glad you are enjoying an awesome client; the best to work with. :)
Ah Michael, I'm so sorry, but hopefully they will work things out to benefit you and not lose a sure sale!!!! I hope so, especially if this is what you truly want. I love spring flowers and always bring them inside. Next fall I plan to plant more bulbs so I can have cut flowers all the time. So lovely, lightens the heart and brighterns the day.
I've not forgotten our goal - we will find time.
Wishing wonderful news today!
It's a good thing that it didn't make you feel insecure, Michael. How you approach things on a positive note is admirable.
Great to know that your new client is fun and open-minded.
steps forward and back - bummer. But there must be a reason this blew up, and somehow you were saved in the long run. Tough to keep upbeat, but sounds like at least work is good for you. Spring flowers and a splash of color - that's the ticket.
Good luck and hang tough
After one of the hardest winters that I can remember, I'm sitting here next to my picture window and outside is filled with sunshine.
Thank you for your post of encouragement for writers!
So sorry to here about your house Michael.
That sucks. Don't the people who screwed have have to take any responsibility for all your out-of-pocket expenses over this?
Just wrong.
Oh, Michael, I’m so sorry to hear about the place in Tampa. Just can’t believe it after everything you’ve been through. I hope it works out. Even before reading your post from yesterday, I knew how much you want to get out of Chicago. As someone who has moved far too often, I can attest it is an incredibly expensive endeavor, particularly if you have to maintain two residences for a time.
Congratulations on the new client: a silver lining in the dark cloud!
VR Barkowski
Sorry to hear about the house, but it'll work out. Maybe this just wasn't the appropriate opportunity for you. And yay for good clients!
I agree, Alex, but I doubt I'll see it. I am pressing to at least get back the 500 bucks I laid out for inspections and the condo application.
I know I will. Thanks Sheri...
Thanks Natalie...
Thanks everyone.... I appreciate the support and reassuring words... It looks like I'll have to find another lender if I can. The problem is, this particular property has a high monthly HOA, and since I still have a lease on the condo in Chicago, they feel am spreading myself too thin.
Sorry to hear about the house. Moving on is good advice--even when it's very hard. You can only do so much.
No! Oh, Michael, I can't believe it. I have to go read yesterday's post. Just remember---things always somehow work out for the best. I know you believe that.
Spring is here in British Columbia too. Can't help but be happy about that :-)
Here's my link if you'd like to drop by :-)
Anna from Elements of Writing
Awww, so sorry Michael. I know how much that home meant to you. I'll send good vibes that you get another opportunity, or that things work out some other way.
And, I'll send a petronus spell your way for a ray of sunshine :)
That just sucks. I know how much you wanted it. Hope some warm weather moves your way soon.
Susan Says
Oh wow, that sucks. I really admire your positive attitude though. And am glad you do have that Chicago place to use until a newer and better Tampa place pops up. Or a better lender. :)
ARE YOU KIDDING?!?!?!?!?! Michael… ugh!!!! I can't BELIEVE this!!!!!!! You poor thing. Holy crap. Does it ever end for you?!?!?!
*tries to breathe*
Bleh. Can't believe all of the housing issues. And the dementors… I hope they've cleared today. You need sunshine! And you need to have everything align for you for once!!! But of course your outlook is amazing. Love your attitude, Michael. Pleeeeeease let everything work out soon and that you can be in the warm sunshine you need to be in!!!
My husband was in the mortgage business for 25 years and just reading this post I can feel the strain. That business practically killed him. Wishing you all the best, Michael, and glad you have a new client to take your mind off the disappointment in Florida.
I am so sorry about your bad news. It is SO frustrating when others make mistakes that cannot be corrected and our lives are affected negatively. I hope in the end it all works out just the way it is supposed to.
This weekend cleaning windows is on my agenda.
Oh no Michael! I remember how excited you were about your new place. The mortgage broker should reimburse you for the money you spent on this. If they don't, can you find out if they have a licensing board you can share your experience with?
Nice to hear that you are enjoying your client!
I hope that something else will come through to add more to your positive outlook on life or events.
I'm so sorry to hear about your new home. I really hope it works out. But at least you have a great new client to take your mind off it for a while. I used to live in Bloomington IN and visited Chicago a lot. Dang! That place is cold and windy! I hope Spring springs up soon! lol
In the face of this lousy news your attitude is excellent. Hang in there, my friend, because I'm sure that when the time is right everything will fall into place!
Dear friend, I'm really sorry to hear you're not going to have your condo after all. I was very excited for you. I would be eating the broker and spitting his remains by now. Good you're not a dragon. People do make mistakes. I will pray for everything to work out the best way for you and you get exactly what you need. Dragon Hugs!
Paperwork screwed up? NOOOOO. I'm so sorry to hear this, especially after all the accounts you've set up and deposits that have been paid. It just sounds like a headache.
I hope you sort it out soon.
On the flip side, I'm happy that you have a new client who is fun and open-minded.
Hang in there!
Sending another boost of positivity-----------------------------
Oooh Michael - that's a bummer ... and how exceedingly frustrating ... honestly life doesn't seem to be helping you. I sincerely hope, as Michelle says, you can sort something out - if it's what you want now .. but on the bright side your new client sounds a load of fun - and you'll enjoy the creative side.
I can't believe what I've just read ... it will work out ... I'm sure it will .. take care and look after yourself - and yes we have 'coldish' winds ... but next week they're saying we might get some English early summer weather ... let's hope .. cheers Hilary
I'm so sorry to hear of the trouble you are having with getting your new home.It is so frustrating when things happen like that that are out of your control. I hope things fall into place for you.
Argh, that sucks! But what you said is true -- if it's not something we can control, then there's no sense getting too upset. Hope it all works out for the best soon so you can settle for a bit!
Yikes! Could you move in now and remodel later? Or are you thinking you'll remodel and flip it? We just bought a house...pain in the butt. We were pre-qualified but I can easily imagine how a mistake could be made during that process. The guy just took all our numbers down over the phone, then came back with a range in which we could safely qualify. The whole process of buying a home is a LOT of work.
Oh dear... you are going through a lot at the moment. You're right, though. It's best not to worry about those things that are out of your control. Hope it gets all sorted soon.
I need to clean my windows! Great reminder. :)
So sorry to hear about the problems caused by your broker. How frustrating and time consuming. You have a great attitude about the situation, considering how stressful it it. Wishing you the best of luck with everything.
Loved the HP references. I hope that patronus came and good weather is surrounding you. :)
~Jess
Yuck, I'm sorry to hear about the bad news on your mortgage. You have an incredibly sunny attitude about the whole thing though, and it's so good to see you can still focus on the positive!
Oh no! So sorry to read this. That said, I do believe you'll end up getting the perfect place for the right price. Just hang in there.
Too bad about that, but stay hopeful, and best wishes!
Oh no! That really stinks about the house. I was so excited for you. But you're so wise. You're right. If there is nothing we can do to change it, we have to let it go.
Speaking of springy steps- I have spent the last few years so absorbed in writing stories that my house and self have suffered a little. I've decided I have to set times and do what I can online and in word. That way I have more time for the physical world around me. So, I will use your tips!
Fingers crossed that things work out with the house!
Oh, Michael, I just now saw this post - I'm so sorry! I hope I didn't post anything about your move or remodeling AFTER this.
I have a friend who is a hugely successful realtor. We've been thinking about selling our place and had many questions and concerns. Nothing about my place is normal. It used to be a barn that was converted to a home, stone faced, etc.
She said, simply, "If it's meant to be, it will happen. Things will fall into place. If not, walk on to the next thing - the thing that happens easily. That is the place for you."
God bless, dear - I hope the place for you, wherever it may be, is waiting for you to make it a wonderful home for years to come.
Greetings Michael,
Apologies for my late arrival, only to read that bit of a downer for you at the beginning.
Yet, you, good sir, dust yourself off and keep going. Other chances will come your way and you shall make it so.
A client is a total delight is part of the balance. The balance of your positive attitude that the road has potholes. With each pothole, you climb out and enjoy the journey even more.
Bask in the ambience of the renewal, the rebirth that is the spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
A thoughtful articulation, my kind friend.
Hugs and hope, your way,
Gary :)
Well as they say Michael, God doesn't send us trials but that we can handle! You are handling this well by all accounts. I'm so glad you're enjoying your new client. That makes it a little easier. Chicago just doesn't want to let go, does it?
Keep us posted. Meanwhile, bake some biscotti and salute the fog!
Denise :-)
I'm sorry to hear about your house! I really hope they can figure it all out for you.
Your weather sounds like the weather we have in California. I've not seen the sun in more than a week. It is peeping out today but I'm not sure how long it plans to stay
i hope you are all settled into a new place by now and you love it! i hope for an update in your next iwsg - can't believe it's right around the corner! you deserve some warm happiness, michael! keep your chin up!
Well, since it's now June, you should finally be experiencing warm weather. (Or maybe even hot?)
I hope the housing situation has all cleared up by now, and you're well on your way to starting a new chapter of your life in a new place. Good luck!
Obtaining mortgages is not fun and can be down right nasty at times. I know a guy who had a similar situation, and his stuff was mostly already in boxes. Ugh. they finally worked out a way to get his debt ratio down a tad so that he could get the right loan amount. I hope they crunch numbers enough for you to get the loan through or you find an even nicer place. :-)
Best,
Deb
I hope things are looking up these days! Praying for good weather, a wonderful home, and good news for you, Michael!
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