pros and cons of Bellingham (Olympia, Republic: real estate, condo, homes)

[gmmhastings]

I made a move to the mid-west quite a few years ago from the west and have regretted it ever since. I always feel like I'm missing out on so much. I watch the commercial by Dennis Hopper (you know, the actor from the Easy Rider movie), and am inspired by his words. I want to make the move but am apprehensive because of my age. I'll be 59 in August and I know from past experiences, that the decisions you make today will effect the rest of your life. I feel there's a lot left in me that will never be accomplished by staying here. I am a life long musician and have much to offer. Music has always been my passion, for playing is really an extension of who I am. People ask me all the time 'how I'm doing'. One things for sure..."I'm not living the dream". Some good friends of mine informed me recently that they are taking steps to move back to Bellingham. I feel that if a person wants to be all they can be, location is paramount. People reading this post will probably wonder, how a person my age could be feeling so displaced. I kick myself everyday, wondering 'what was I thinking'.

There are a lot of people out there much smarter than myself. I would sure appreciate your take on my dilemma. I am a West Coast person, so would Washington State be the place for me? Anxiously awaiting your response...

[racechick73]

gmmhastings- So ironic- my family and I feel like we're missing out on so much by being in Washington! We feel like we don't fit in anymore, with so many different-minded people moving in, and the benefits of living here just don't keep up with housing costs. We're seriously considering a move to Wyoming, just to be around like-minded people and enjoy the slower pace of life. (Oh yeah, and to enjoy a smaller house payment!!)
I'm a firm believer that change is good. I think you ought to fly out here for a week or two, and see if it's how you remember it. Bellingham has gotten huge and busy, and I'm sure you've done your research and seen how out-of-control housing has gotten. Maybe you're independently wealthy- then it really wouldn't be a factor for you. But for a young family or individual, it's really tough to hang on here.
I don't think it's ever too late to follow your dreams- try a move back here- you can always move again in a few years and make a mint on selling your home!
Good luck to you!

[41Willys]

Originally Posted by gmmhastings

I made a move to the mid-west quite a few years ago from the west and have regretted it ever since. I always feel like I'm missing out on so much. I watch the commercial by Dennis Hopper (you know, the actor from the Easy Rider movie), and am inspired by his words. I want to make the move but am apprehensive because of my age. I'll be 59 in August and I know from past experiences, that the decisions you make today will effect the rest of your life. I feel there's a lot left in me that will never be accomplished by staying here. I am a life long musician and have much to offer. Music has always been my passion, for playing is really an extension of who I am. People ask me all the time 'how I'm doing'. One things for sure..."I'm not living the dream". Some good friends of mine informed me recently that they are taking steps to move back to Bellingham. I feel that if a person wants to be all they can be, location is paramount. People reading this post will probably wonder, how a person my age could be feeling so displaced. I kick myself everyday, wondering 'what was I thinking'.

There are a lot of people out there much smarter than myself. I would sure appreciate your take on my dilemma. I am a West Coast person, so would Washington State be the place for me? Anxiously awaiting your response...

These are the words I have been looking for . Im 40 and was thinking its now or never.I used to live in Colorado. I moved "BACK" to the East coast for ALL the wrong reasons. I can relate to missing out on things.I had XM in Co. in 95. It has only gotten popular here in NY/NJ in the last few years. Im a single full time parent of an 11 year old girl and want to move while she's still young. Prices arent any higher there then they are here, its exspensive here.
If Im gonna struggle to make it, I wanna be on top of my paramont! They I can live to the fullest!!
BTW, I say you go for it!!

[gmmhastings]

Thank you very much for all your responses. One has to wonder however, if "the grass really is greener"? I am greatful for all that I have and it's not that much but I can't help but wonder if opportunities aren't just passing me by due to where I live. I ask myself is it necessary to be all you can be or should I just simply except moderate improvements and go with that. Or...should I pursue my passions with a zest second to none. After a lot of pondering on that subject, I have to admit that the verdict is still out. I do love seafood and it isn't available here in Michigan.

I wonder if moving is really the answer or should one just embrace what the area offers and make the best of it. Somehow, that last statement just doesn't get it for me! I have found that different areas around the country have different takes on a variety of issues, and one important aspect of living is being in an environment with like-minded thinking. Here, I kind of feel like a fish out of water, simply because of narrow minded people. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a shallow person nor do I impose my feelings on others, but I do enjoy being around people that appreciate open dialogs on issues without getting an attitude about it. You know...just nice, informative conversation. That's why I thought about Washington State. I'm not wealthy and don't want to live in an area that is cost prohibitive for most people, so I guess Washington is out! I'll just have to resource some other areas. If you have any ideas, I would certainly be interested to here them and thanks again for your responses. Looking forward to more...Take care everyone.

[41Willys]

I dont get it? What happened to paramount?

[gmmhastings]

Nothings happened to paramount, there just might be other areas just as conducive to my needs as Washington State. Do you have any suggestions that might help?

[racechick73]

What kind of music do you play? I've heard great things about Nashville, and housing is 5% less than anywhere else in the country. At least that's what they said on "House Hunters" yesterday!

[racechick73]

Or check out Spokane- I think it's pretty well balanced politically, and I know they've got the whole artsy-fartsy thing there, so you should be able to excel there musically. Then you can still afford seafood, ha ha!

[gmmhastings]

I play just about anything including Country. The groups I worked with, thanks to a friend of mine, used drummers such as David Garibaldi, Hillary Jones and other, as well as myself when I resided in that area. They were recognized nationally and I am not, primarily due to wrong choices, such as the one that brought me to Michigan. I've had many influences over the years, such as John (JR) Robinson, Steve Gadd, Vinnie Caliutta, Louie Belson, Gene Krupa...just to mention a few.

I spent time in Nashville many years ago and it would be fine to work there but I don't believe it's the right place for me to call home. Of course, I would be happy to collaborate there with the right players, if the opportunity afforded itself.

I'll look into both Nashville and Spokane again, as I have considered them briefly once before and let you know of my decision. Nashville would certainly be closer for me than Spokane, however the West has such an appeal to me.

Thanks again for your input. It's greatly appreciated and if I ever pick up where I left off again (musically, that is), I let you know.

[41Willys]

Originally Posted by gmmhastings

Nothings happened to paramount, there just might be other areas just as conducive to my needs as Washington State. Do you have any suggestions that might help?

Hmmm, I still dont see! Not sure, the only other places I lived were NY, Colorado and here, Jersey!
Colorado has alot of what Wa. does if you hit the Rockies! Minus the Ocean.
Lotta cool parts to live in, but they come with "alot" of snow. Ive visited Oregon a few times. If you go an hour and a half west of Portland you will be at the ocean. Similar to Wa. coast, though I never been to Wa. Im just comparing it to pictures Ive seen. This would be the cheaper of the 3. (Wa., Co., PDX) Musically?
I'd have to go with Seattle! Im not a musician but it seems pretty diverse there! Hey, wasnt it Seattle grunge that single handedly KILLED hair bands back in the early 90's!! Pearl Jam still amazes me!! You said you play all music, though grunge mite not be your stye I was just making a point.