House Spotting

My husband was feeling the effects of his treatment today and needed to rest up. We have moved out of our accommodation as today was his last treatment so we are spending the last night with another old friend who is kindly putting us up.

While my husband slept I decided to go exploring around a nearby suburb with some interesting shops. I caught the bus and enjoyed the feeling of anticipation of not knowing what I would see and do.

I wandered the shops and went into 4 or 5 stores but didn't really feel inclined to actually buy anything much. I think this frugal journey has made me reconsider the whole idea of shopping. I mainly went to thrift shops and book shops. The new retail stores did not really draw me in. 

My curiosity being satisfied I decided to wander some of the side streets in this old suburb that is very gentrified. I had a great time exploring and admiring the restored cottages that are currently prime real estate. I found my favourite street that I have driven past several times and it was good to be able to wander it on foot at my own pace. I found my favourite house - one I had seen in a magazine several years ago. One I could happily live in - if only it wasn't in a city I don't want to live in...

The weather was stunning and I enjoyed photographing the old houses and wishing I could go and knock on several doors to ask to see inside. I was able to imagine these cottages being new homes once and filled with the lives of 19th and early 20th century families who would never have been able to imagine that their humble abodes would last as long as they have and now be worth millions.

I rode the bus home with a sense of satisfaction that my curiosity was satisfied. I had spent the grand total of $5.00 on a small item in a second hand shop. I had the most fun looking at and photographing these beautiful old buildings. And best of all I got an afternoon's entertainment for very little financial outlay!