Honey, I’m home!

Posted byJaime CarrolloPosted inUncategorized

7 August

It was almost a year ago when I started this blog about building a wranch house in the country near Buffalo Texas. I had recently finished reading the Iliad and the Odyssey along with dabbling a bit in Greek mythology, so it should not be a surprise that I imagined myself a warrior facing a series of battles at the end of which, through strength and cunning and guile, I would emerge victorious. And then, following the completion of this very real-world project, I would allow myself a hero’s journey of reflection and self-discovery to seek the eternal home we all wish to inhabit.

So it is fitting, perhaps, that the project is bookended by Homer’s Odyssey at the start and by Nolan’s at the completion. Whither goest thou henceforth, Odysseus?

A couple weeks ago, the final building inspection was completed with only a few minor issues identified. So let’s call that the completion date, August 1, or 11 months since the start date. These past few weeks have been the “break-in” period, capped with a family gathering. We put the bedrooms and bathrooms and kitchen and laundry to the test. I also finally completed the rainwater collection system and we have been living on the heavenly waters.

Paula and my sister ChaCha show the new house to my niece Allana. ChaCha and Jim helped hang artwork throughout the main house and bunkhouse. Paula’s invitation to Allana is extended to all of you.
One of our daily armored visitors. They are welcome because they root around for army worms, which could destroy a new Bermuda grass lawn. I bought Paula a lawn mower and she lets me use it all the time.
The family gathering was in part to welcome Josh’s wife Christina to the clan but served the purpose of getting the house used to people living and eating and celebrating within its walls.

9 August

Paula and I arrived in Encinitas yesterday to spend the changing of the seasons with family and friends. We will celebrate Paula’s birthday – and JP’s and Jen’s – and enjoy our walks and swims at the beach, the occasional babysitting duty and all the activities we get involved with in this near-perfect weather. We love Texas as well and we look forward to splitting our time between Houston and the Wranch.

Whither goest thou henceforth, Jaime? Next Camino starts September 14. Follow at caminodejaime.com.

“Midway upon the journey of my life
I found myself within a forest dark,
For the straightforward pathway had been lost.”

4 thoughts on “Honey, I’m home!”

  2. Love these journals, Jaime, you renaissance poet you. Congrats on the completion of your ranch house!🎊
    ~Karen

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  3. What a beautiful “Wranch” House! Barbie and Mike can’t wait to visit. What wonderful family pictures and videos. How proud must Mimi and Jim be, watching all of this from Heaven. Or where ever you believe they are watching. This is what “Family” really means. Everyone stay healthy and safe. Well, two of the Russell Boys and their bosses had an electrifying journey back to our stomping grounds in Wyoming. Evanston, Big Piney and Pinedale. What wonderful country to visit and the graciousness of our cowboy/cowgirl cousins. Maybe some beer stories when we visit Buffalo, Texas. Presently we are living in “hell”. Our lows are most cities highs. Waking up to 90 degrees and having the day go to 114 degrees is not pleasant. It’s a dry heat. Oh well, a couple more months. We can handle it. Another beer story; Mike sold his black sports car and bought a grey one. As soon as I figure it out, I’ll send some pictures. Jim and Paula, you built a beautiful second home called “The Wranch”. You have to be proud- – what an accomplishment. The Tortoise Whisperer

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