Well, we did it.

Many months later, and we finally signed on the dotted line. Third attempt this last year. Lots o' money this one. And lots o' work, too. I think it will be worth it in the end, because it really is such a great apartment and in the right spot for what's next, good and bad.

But about that work, the wife is already on track for the kind green renovation I envision. She resourced stone quarried in New York State for the kitchen floor. She's picked a cabinet-maker who only builds with responsibly harvested solid wood and only uses "green" formaldehyde-free plywood boxes and non-toxic water-based glues and finishes -- plus they are located on Long Island. The countertop-maker is located in Brooklyn and uses 100% recycled material. Appliances from a company in the Bronx. Local, local, local. The building itself discourages people who renovate from discarding old hardware and keeps the various Art Deco pieces (door knobs, light fixtures, etc...) in storage for people in the building who want to use them for their own renovations.

(deep breath)

I think this is going to be great.

Initial Stages

The wife and I are moving from renting to buying an apartment in New York City. For the first time in my life, I can find a way to put my values to the test, to put them to work, in pursuit of living my life and choosing to live my the very same values I profess to hold dear.

It's called integrity and I am seeking to prove I have it.

We don't own the apartment yet but we did just sign the contract. Working on financing. And getting past the co-op board.

Egads, we're a long way away from living that dream. Stay tuned.