September 2026
Been figuring out what I should include in this newsletter. No traveling, no big events, no female interests (well, maybe one), so, what could my friends be interested in? Am I wasting my time? Then got an email from old friend: "How’s Round Rock besides being hot?"
OK. Now I have a start.
Here it is mid September and we're forecasting another week of 100+ degree days. In Colorado, I would be bringing in my deck chairs, getting ready for an October snow.
.jpg "image title")
My Situation
How about normal life around the house? I no longer own an abode, but I am content to call this two bedroom apartment my home. For now. During these months, my brain has been questioning my huge decision to move here. (How did I make such a life-changing choice? see HERE.) I haven't been all that pleased, thinking I had made a big mistake. Yes, I was being sucked into a state of disappointment. Is this all there is? Or am I too critical?
The Reserve has plenty to offer: a monthly activities calendar, packed with daily events. Exercise classes, crafts, social events, bingo, many card games (Rummikub, Mexican Train dominoes, Quixx) and even minor sports - pickleball and volleyball.
Second GuessingThen I got an invite to an open-house brunch at the Amberlin, my second choice for retirement living, just a mile from here. I had not seen it since last November, but it was also new, fancy and was back then in the running. Good chance for me to compare, and am I glad I did!
A huge crowd showed up. In a 55+ place, if there is free food, everyone comes 30 minutes early. My hope was that I would discover a few attractive silver-haired grandmas ready for a boy toy. Nope.
Plus the place was NOT nicer. Certainly not worth the trouble of moving again. So I'm back to appreciating what I have. The location is perfect, the environs are spotless, the unit is first rate, the activities are never ending. We recently got a regulation pool table, have had a tournament and I've cemented a friendship or two by participating.
New friends? Five months in, finally being included and accepted. When I sit at an empty table at Happy Hour, I will immediately be surrounded by mature women. The conversation starts with which floor we live on, the quality of today's donut selection, and then we move right along to geriatric topics. Alzheimer's, arthritis, joint replacement, and even a liver transplant. Sometimes ex-husbands come up. I don't have much patience for this, but I am respectful for a full 5 minutes then stand up, pat my stomach and walk off with the perfect excuse. "Time for another donut, haha."
.jpg "image title")
Visitors
A total of five friends have come to visit. They admit, it's not me they want to see, it's to assess my situation and examine a 55+ community. I prepare fastidiously, meet them for brunch at a nice cafe down the street, then they follow me home. I park in front of the impressive four-story building and we enter through the double doors to the lobby, a spacious two story atrium with chandelier and smiling greeter. "Hi, Bill," Ella says.
We take a quick tour of the game room, the mail box area, the club room (happy hour locale). Just down the hall is the fitness center and a pair of restrooms, where my guests excuse themselves. They seem to get excited with the elegance.
We go out, and drive around to the back where they park and watch me walk up from my spot under a covered carport. I use my key fob to unlatch the secondary entrance door, and we proceed through a narrow hall. Then, into the sparkling, polished wood floor corridor with an elevator just steps away. On the third floor we step out and ten feet away is my unit. It has a numbered plaque, a welcome mat and even a peephole in the paneled door. Inside, the spotless interior impresses. The beautiful view to the vast western expanse is straight ahead through my glass doors, which open onto a secluded balcony. This little deck is my refuge. Every single day, I sit in the shade and contemplate my life. Sometimes I read a book. Even at 90+ degrees, it's manageable.
The living room is compact, but functional with big screen and plush seating. My furnishings are simple, colorful and appropriate for the space. The kitchen is a modern dream, new appliances, marble countertop, cabinets with self-closing hinges and room for more than one cook. Bedrooms are perfectly sized, each with a full bath and generous closet. (The second bedroom is my study, with desks, computer and bookshelves. The second closet is storage.) Every visitor has been full of praise. My perception tells me they are not just saying something nice to make me feel better about living in an apartment.
The living room is compact, but functional with big screen and plush seating. My furnishings are simple, colorful and appropriate for the space. The kitchen is a modern dream, new appliances, marble countertop, cabinets with self-closing hinges and room for more than one cook. Bedrooms are perfectly sized, each with a full bath and generous closet. (The second bedroom is my study, with desks, computer and bookshelves. The second closet is storage.) Every visitor has been full of praise. My perception tells me they are not just saying something nice to make me feel better about living in an apartment.
.jpg "image title")
Physical Activity
How about fitness? Gold's Gym has become my morning destination. Get there by eight am, stay til 10. Include strength and either treadmill or HIIT spinning. The gym here at the Reserve has plenty of equipment, but it's janky. And there is no one but me ever in there. No thanks, unless it's raining cats and dogs.
I have cooked up a new plan for making friends at a non-club gym. Few old folks at Gold's, and they appear to have zero interest in meeting someone new. I am biding my time, and just this week got a smile from a young lady who is there every morning. She and one other are my targets. First a smile, then a nod, finally, "Hi, I'm Bill." May take another couple of months. I'll let you know how it goes.
Once I get a couple of youngish women to talk to me, it is my theory that the males will notice and realize I might be a good guy. Next thing it will snowball. This will involve more months of patience.
Early Sept update. This AM, I get a smile from 20 feet away. It was someone I had never noticed before. Is he looking at me? Why is he smiling? Maybe I do know him? I am walking toward a multi-rack preparing for a killer triceps exercise. He keeps staring at me, then I see he isn't using the station I am heading for, after all. So keep approaching, then smile and point, "Using this one?" Next thing you know we've said a few pleasant words, I give my usual joke, he laughs and says, "I've seen you in here a few times."
Later, I thought, maybe that's a better way to start making friends, with a dominant male. This was a 250 lb fully tattooed hulk of a man wearing a thick pullover, his huge muscles bulging through the dense fabric. Having a big dude on my side may be an asset sometime.
FYI. I've been going to Gold's Gym six days a week (one day I go to Planet Fitness) for five straight months. This man is the first male to acknowledge me or speak to me. Except for the front desk and the maintenance guy. Five months, no communication whatsoever. Until this AM.
Mid Sept update. The woman has now smiled again, this time with a squint. What that means, I dunno. The hulkman has smiled and spoken briefly. Progress.
My VO2 max is in the elite category for my age (see chart below), my resting heart rate has gradually dropped to the mid 40s. Thanks mostly to the agonizing HIIT workouts on the spin bike.
Mid Sept update. The woman has now smiled again, this time with a squint. What that means, I dunno. The hulkman has smiled and spoken briefly. Progress.
My VO2 max is in the elite category for my age (see chart below), my resting heart rate has gradually dropped to the mid 40s. Thanks mostly to the agonizing HIIT workouts on the spin bike.
No More House!
What a relief. No maintenance, no to-do list, nothing to repair or upgrade. And, even with my apartment rent, it is less expensive. Bye-bye to the HOA critiquing my raggedy grass! No wait, I never had to mow my rocks!
The downsizing, I will admit, was hell. I started three years ago in 2023. No more garage to fill up with camping gear, motorcycle tools and bicycles. Everything fits in my new place, no storage unit needed. After 50+ years of home ownership, it's a big load off. Jenn, my realtor, was a wonderful choice, sold my house in two days for much more than I expected. She made the process a dream. Competent, organized, helpful; a walking miracle she is.
The Opposite Sex Been crossing paths with an attractive single lady here at The Reserve. She's too young for me and who cares? So far, no sit down, only short chit-chats. I do know her name, have seen her on her balcony and her parking space is just across from mine. She teaches elementary school. Unfortunately, she does not attend community events, so I may be waiting in vain. So far, she is the only one with any possibilities for me.
TexasPretty much as I expected. My location in the city is ideal, all my shopping needs are within a few blocks, and the freeway is nearby when Target or Best Buy is on the agenda. Texas highways and city streets are super well maintained, probably due to oil revenues. Potholes? Nonexistent. Speeding is entrenched. If you ain't keeping up, you will be tailgated. When first in line at any traffic light, be prepared to smash that gas pedal when you see a green. My place is on University Blvd, a high traffic four lane artery with many lights, cross-streets and retail access driveways. So what? Speed limit 45, so do 50 or stay in the right lane if you want to avoid a monster pick-up looming in your mirror. This is in town. What about the freeway? Merge in behind a big semi. It will be doing the lawful limit. Relax. Your destination is a few exits away.The speed here has been eye-opening, but the adjustment has been exhilarating.
Priorities 1. Health. So far, holding up. Can't complain, although I do anyway.
The downsizing, I will admit, was hell. I started three years ago in 2023. No more garage to fill up with camping gear, motorcycle tools and bicycles. Everything fits in my new place, no storage unit needed. After 50+ years of home ownership, it's a big load off. Jenn, my realtor, was a wonderful choice, sold my house in two days for much more than I expected. She made the process a dream. Competent, organized, helpful; a walking miracle she is.
The Opposite Sex Been crossing paths with an attractive single lady here at The Reserve. She's too young for me and who cares? So far, no sit down, only short chit-chats. I do know her name, have seen her on her balcony and her parking space is just across from mine. She teaches elementary school. Unfortunately, she does not attend community events, so I may be waiting in vain. So far, she is the only one with any possibilities for me.
TexasPretty much as I expected. My location in the city is ideal, all my shopping needs are within a few blocks, and the freeway is nearby when Target or Best Buy is on the agenda. Texas highways and city streets are super well maintained, probably due to oil revenues. Potholes? Nonexistent. Speeding is entrenched. If you ain't keeping up, you will be tailgated. When first in line at any traffic light, be prepared to smash that gas pedal when you see a green. My place is on University Blvd, a high traffic four lane artery with many lights, cross-streets and retail access driveways. So what? Speed limit 45, so do 50 or stay in the right lane if you want to avoid a monster pick-up looming in your mirror. This is in town. What about the freeway? Merge in behind a big semi. It will be doing the lawful limit. Relax. Your destination is a few exits away.The speed here has been eye-opening, but the adjustment has been exhilarating.
Priorities 1. Health. So far, holding up. Can't complain, although I do anyway.
Summary
I'm happy here, but holding my future options open. Later this year, I plan on a trip back to the Springs to re-evaluate living possibilities there. Now that I've experienced the 55+ life, maybe I could use some cool air and the reestablishment of friendships. Here in the hill country, there is not much of that white fluffy stuff that I love in winter.
.jpg "image title")
Thanks for reading. It's a bit long. Email me with comments.
.jpg "image title")
Thanks, I enjoy these! Love your dry sense of humor! And happy birthday!!! ... Love, Ericka M., San Diego
Hi Bill..... from L and me - in the southern Ozarks. "...brain has been questioning my huge decision to move here. How did I make such a life-changing choice?" You made it the same way you made the huge decision to hit the road from Houston - and, cresting a hill selected Colorado Springs to settle, and for so many good years. We miss visiting you - and those memories on the bikes will never go away. .. Gere G., AK
Photo below is G and Wife L with me on our trip down the Blue Ridge Parkway in 2011!... BG
Hi Bill..... from L and me - in the southern Ozarks. "...brain has been questioning my huge decision to move here. How did I make such a life-changing choice?" You made it the same way you made the huge decision to hit the road from Houston - and, cresting a hill selected Colorado Springs to settle, and for so many good years. We miss visiting you - and those memories on the bikes will never go away. .. Gere G., AK
Photo below is G and Wife L with me on our trip down the Blue Ridge Parkway in 2011!... BG
Happy Birthday Bill!!! Enjoyed your newsletter. Welcome back to TX! Life keeps drumming on here at the office. Staying busy. Hiring new younger people. Scott, Eric, Matt, and I are probably all that’s left from the office you once co-owned. Mark F. retired this year. Come by and see us next time you’re down in Houston. All the best... Chris L., Houston
Good Work, Bill! Nice reflection on your early learning/living curve. As one who has visited your new digs, I appreciate your efforts to settle, make friends and work to understand life and Texas... Most of us continue those pursuits... Glad things seem to be going your way...commendations for your conscious efforts to smooth the process... I'll hope to see you soon... Dan B., Austin
Bill, Still reading your letter. The Reserve considers Happy Hour a time for...donuts!? (No wonder you were having second thoughts). Your exercise routine embarrassed me. I thought I was working out going to the gym three times a week and lifting weights, and then walking dogs (to the nearest yard where I sit while dog sniffs around, then comes over for a little loving). And I thought I was old enough that I didn't have to do HIIT, but...well, your routine has me rethinking that. Good to hear from you. Stay in touch. (Peggy says "Hi")... John P., Tucson
I read your newsletter (the whole thing). It's good and you have got it made. A really nice no maintenance home and free to get up and go wherever you want whenever you want. Couldn't be better! I have yard, too big of a house, too many friends and 2 cats.... So no time to do much of anything anymore... Judy P. Central TX
Interesting newletter... In my case, I recently, about a month ago, fell and broke the head off of my right femur... You will be seeing me soon in "I have fallen and can't get up " commercials. Worst thing I have ever had happen.. Total handicap.. Although my walker has a cup holder... Hopefully I will be back to running wild in a month or so, but do not have any promises. Sure puts a total stop to all of my working in the shop, gardening in all of the spots, and damn near everything... We , as humans, just don't realize how great we have it with mobility and having a brain full of ideas. Try to avoid this eventuality... Bill K., Houston
Interesting. I'm curious how this relocation will play out for you... Eric B., Houston
Adjustment takes time. We are enjoying our situation. I just had aa ankle joint replacement. 8-12 weeks non weight bearing cast/boot. Bored to tears... Michael P. San Antonio
Incredible!!! You really know how to live, and productive too!!! I only know how to make architecture, and still work eight hours a day... Josh P., Taiwan
Read it all. Sounds as if you're in a really well-planned senior environment. You remain realistic re: life, health & social potential. Glad you're taking care of yourself. Thanks for keeping me in your loop. I admire the way you "seize the day!"... Lee P., AL
Thanks for including me in the update. It sounds like it's been interesting. Please let us know when you are up this way in case you have time to catch up. Add my husband to your newsletter email. He is interested... Stephanie A., CO
Thanks for including me Bill. It’s ALWAYS great to read anything you write. Sounds like you are doing well. I was surprised you are back in the sweltering heat of Texas. But it sounds like you might be leaving again... Connie R., Houston
My wife and I were just reading your newsletter. Glad you're adjusting... Wes T. CO
Hello William. Nice to hear from you again. Glad to see you've quit your bellyaching about moving to Texas. Come down and visit anytime and bring your new girlfriend. No, really, happy for you and I know you'll make friends and start to live a normal old person's life! Haha.... George H., Galveston
Hey Bill, Thanks for keeping me on your email. Very entertaining... Jack W., Baton Rouge
Good Work, Bill! Nice reflection on your early learning/living curve. As one who has visited your new digs, I appreciate your efforts to settle, make friends and work to understand life and Texas... Most of us continue those pursuits... Glad things seem to be going your way...commendations for your conscious efforts to smooth the process... I'll hope to see you soon... Dan B., Austin
Bill, Still reading your letter. The Reserve considers Happy Hour a time for...donuts!? (No wonder you were having second thoughts). Your exercise routine embarrassed me. I thought I was working out going to the gym three times a week and lifting weights, and then walking dogs (to the nearest yard where I sit while dog sniffs around, then comes over for a little loving). And I thought I was old enough that I didn't have to do HIIT, but...well, your routine has me rethinking that. Good to hear from you. Stay in touch. (Peggy says "Hi")... John P., Tucson
I read your newsletter (the whole thing). It's good and you have got it made. A really nice no maintenance home and free to get up and go wherever you want whenever you want. Couldn't be better! I have yard, too big of a house, too many friends and 2 cats.... So no time to do much of anything anymore... Judy P. Central TX
Interesting newletter... In my case, I recently, about a month ago, fell and broke the head off of my right femur... You will be seeing me soon in "I have fallen and can't get up " commercials. Worst thing I have ever had happen.. Total handicap.. Although my walker has a cup holder... Hopefully I will be back to running wild in a month or so, but do not have any promises. Sure puts a total stop to all of my working in the shop, gardening in all of the spots, and damn near everything... We , as humans, just don't realize how great we have it with mobility and having a brain full of ideas. Try to avoid this eventuality... Bill K., Houston
Interesting. I'm curious how this relocation will play out for you... Eric B., Houston
Adjustment takes time. We are enjoying our situation. I just had aa ankle joint replacement. 8-12 weeks non weight bearing cast/boot. Bored to tears... Michael P. San Antonio
Incredible!!! You really know how to live, and productive too!!! I only know how to make architecture, and still work eight hours a day... Josh P., Taiwan
Read it all. Sounds as if you're in a really well-planned senior environment. You remain realistic re: life, health & social potential. Glad you're taking care of yourself. Thanks for keeping me in your loop. I admire the way you "seize the day!"... Lee P., AL
Thanks for including me in the update. It sounds like it's been interesting. Please let us know when you are up this way in case you have time to catch up. Add my husband to your newsletter email. He is interested... Stephanie A., CO
Thanks for including me Bill. It’s ALWAYS great to read anything you write. Sounds like you are doing well. I was surprised you are back in the sweltering heat of Texas. But it sounds like you might be leaving again... Connie R., Houston
My wife and I were just reading your newsletter. Glad you're adjusting... Wes T. CO
Hello William. Nice to hear from you again. Glad to see you've quit your bellyaching about moving to Texas. Come down and visit anytime and bring your new girlfriend. No, really, happy for you and I know you'll make friends and start to live a normal old person's life! Haha.... George H., Galveston
Hey Bill, Thanks for keeping me on your email. Very entertaining... Jack W., Baton Rouge
My email:bill@bgerman.com