Seeking an escape from their busy city lives, four couples decided to create a unique community of tiny vacation homes to fulfill their retirement dreams together.
This eco-friendly retreat, tailored to individual needs, allows the couples to enjoy a shared experience surrounded by their closest friends. After more than two decades of friendship, these Texas couples were eager to find a quiet place away from their busy Austin homes, a place where they could immerse themselves in nature and rejuvenate.
When they discovered a piece of land near the Llano River, just an hour from Austin and perfect for nature lovers, they recognized its potential despite its rugged condition.
Fred Zipp, a former editor of the Austin American-Statesman, shared his first impressions with Garden and Gun magazine: “At first, it wasn’t very inviting”. He and his wife, Jodi, are among four couples who care about environmental sustainability and minimizing their carbon footprint. “This place has its charm, even when it’s dry”, Fred noted, pointing out the herds of wild buffalo that roam the rugged landscape. “We’re focused on conserving water for the native trees and grasses, which are really beautiful.”
The couple originally planned to build a house together, but after learning about the tiny house movement, they changed their focus and decided on individual houses and a communal building for gatherings.
With the help of San Antonio architect Matt Garcia, the vision took shape. With a budget of $40,000 per house, Garcia designed four compact 350-square-foot cabins, each equipped with a double bed, kitchenette and bathroom.
“We wanted a place where we could spend quality time together, eat together and enjoy each other’s company, while still maintaining privacy when needed”, Jodi explained.
The designs also included sustainable elements such as roofs that capture rainwater while meeting conservation guidelines. To combat the hot Texas climate, the cabins are insulated with spray foam and feature large overhangs to minimize heat gain.
Garcia focused on creating an inviting interior, contrasting the sleek metal facades with warm, grained plywood surfaces. The natural gray concrete floors add an affordable, stylish touch.
Large windows throughout the open floor plan allow for plenty of natural light and offer stunning river views. Additionally, a 1,500-square-foot community cabin serves as a hub for social activities and features a guest bedroom, living area, kitchen, and even a pool!
Reflecting on the cultural shift after the recession, Garcia said: “People began to realize that happiness does not come from owning too much space or things. I am proud to work with clients who embrace the idea that less is more”.
Although the eight friends are not yet ready for full-time retirement, their small community, called “Llano Exit Strategy” or “Bestie Row”, offers the perfect retreat. When they are not using the cabins, they rent them out to vacationers interested in the tiny house lifestyle.
“It’s like living in a Disney movie here! We have rabbits, bobcats, deer and a variety of birds. We discover more wildlife every time we visit”, they shared.
The story of “Bestie Row” sparked a lively debate on social media, with many expressing admiration for the couple’s commitment to friendship. One comment read: “What a brilliant idea! Friends building a community together is the way to go as we get older”. However, others raised concerns about the potential risks of living together in such a close relationship, suggesting that friendships could suffer.
Would you consider creating a micro-community to spend more time with your closest friends? Share this story and let us hear your thoughts!
Joy Behar Calls Dolly Parton’s Jolene Anti-Feminist And Fans Come Unglued
There doesn’t seem to be a shortage of viewpoints these days, and people are willing to argue almost anything. The View, where the hosts explore some of the most fascinating subjects, is one venue where these discussions frequently take place.
Joy Behar, one of The View’s members, recently sparked a heated discussion by questioning the renowned country song “Jolene” by Dolly Parton, implying that it might have anti-feminist connotations.
Behar even went so far as to declare that Beyoncé’s more current rendition of “Jolene” was better. People’s attention is being drawn to the intense conversation that has been ignited by this comment.
Joy Behar is not afraid to voice her opinions, and she made sure the show’s producer knew that she preferred Beyoncé’s performance of “Jolene.” Behar claims that Dolly Parton’s rendition of the song displays possessiveness and insecurity, especially when Parton is pleading with the mistress not to take her lover.
This notion, according to Behar, is antifeminist because it suggests that women should be worried that their men might cheat on them because they are attracted to other women. She feels that it undercuts women’s empowerment.
However, Beyoncé’s rendition of “Jolene,” known as “Cowboy Carter,” presents an alternative viewpoint. In the song, Beyoncé issues a warning to the other person, telling them to avoid her connection, instead of pleading with them.
Naturally, a lot of people—including country music icon Reba McEntire—had comments about the matter. McEntire just chuckled when asked about Joy Behar’s remark and complimented Beyoncé on her contributions to the country music genre.
Behar praises Beyoncé’s performance of “Jolene” for its strong message, but she still maintains that Dolly Parton’s song is anti-feminist. Behar claims that Beyoncé’s rendition shows a self-assured lady who is prepared to face the difficulties in her relationship head-on.
Fascinatingly, Dolly Parton appears to value Beyoncé’s rendition of the song, which adds another dimension to this continuing discussion.
As long as people are willing to talk about it, this argument will undoubtedly continue. Undoubtedly, Joy Behar evoked powerful feelings, and not everyone finds it amusing.
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