What I Didn't Worry About
November 24, 2024
There are many things I take as a given: the love of my children and grandchildren, the beauty of nature, the joy of music, my close friendships and more.
And there are many things I worry about: our divided country, global warming, world peace and more.
One worry that never occurred to me is that the building where I happily live would be in danger of collapsing. And that its inhabitants would be forced to evacuate, having been given 4-6 weeks’ notice.
It was discovered some months ago that there were structural strength issues due to errors made during the building’s construction sixty years ago. But no one thought that it couldn’t be remedied with little disruption, albeit expensively.
But move I must—for at least a year. And by early next month, I hope to be settled “temporarily” in a place chosen on a week’s notice. There is no view of the river, no outside green space, and no place to park my car.
This would be fun for no one—it’s just a little harder at 80-something.
I am so sorry you have to deal with this move! I have read about this situation in the local media, and my heart goes out to everyone affected. May it all be resolved as quickly as possible. (This 60-something recently discovered your blog; keep up the great work!)
Posted by: Patricia Smith | November 24, 2024 at 06:52 AM
I'm shocked, on your behalf.
It seems to me you've always made sensible and tough decisions in your life, not least when you moved back to Boston when you realised the move nearer your children was not the right one for you, climate wise.
This really is a bolt from the blue but I'm sure you have the physical and mental ( and family ) resources and support to weather the next year or so.
Please continue to journal - I find if I write something down in detail it makes it all less scary.
I would actually find it easier to journal daily rather than twice weekly in your situation.
Posted by: Yellow Shoes | November 24, 2024 at 06:58 AM
Oh no! I am so sorry! I read about that building in the paper but did not realize it was yours. When we lived in Brookline, the building next door to us had structural issues. The owners did not have to move out, however the assessments were so huge (18 million dollars) that many had to sell since the assessment was more than the value of their condo. Developers came in and bought everyone out and now the units are all valued at over a million dollars. Many condos of a certain age are aging out it seems.
I hope your assessment is not too huge.
What a worry to have at this stage of life.
Posted by: Roberta | November 24, 2024 at 07:17 AM
I am sorry to hear this news. Your last sentence says it all. May some ease be found along the way.
Posted by: Linlee | November 24, 2024 at 09:09 AM
I am in your age group, and your experiences and well-written observations resonate with me. And I am shocked to hear about the upheaval in your living situation. Perhaps something good will come of it - such as your safety - in the meantime, stay strong!
Posted by: Barrie Levine | November 24, 2024 at 09:32 AM
So sorry to hear the situation you were just placed in. But from following your blog for some time, you are up to the challenge. Hope you are somewhat satisfied with your present residence. You have the get up and go to handle this. Hang in there.
Posted by: Irwin | November 24, 2024 at 04:48 PM
Oh, Judy, I'm so sorry. I certainly hope that adequate/generous financial compensation has been made to all of your affected. Hope you'll be getting help as you go through this stressful time.
Posted by: Becky in California | November 24, 2024 at 06:50 PM
Edit to above: to all of *you* affected.
Posted by: Becky in California | November 24, 2024 at 06:52 PM
Judy, I've been thinking about you ever since I read your note yesterday. A good friend of mine is also affected, though in a different way. It sounds as though you found a place to settle for the year. If you're anywhere near me, I could possibly offer help with your car since I have a garage and driveway. Good luck getting through the next few weeks. Luise
Posted by: Luise Erdmann | November 25, 2024 at 03:42 PM
Dear Judy I am so sorry to hear of your disruption. That is such a lovely building to me, I always imagine folks sitting on their terraces watching the river flow.
I am sure you will handle this in the best possible way, with determination and grace.
I have been following you since Seth’s frugal traveler times. I once approached you at the HS farmers market. You are a role model to this 73 year old. Happy New Year
Posted by: Carol | December 01, 2024 at 12:14 PM