My House Our House. Karen M. Bush

that we all took turns in that role, as we talked our way toward deeper friendship and community.

      To give you the flavor of the meeting, we have reproduced our flipcharts exactly as we created them in that planning session. They reflect what was important to us in the beginning.

       Flipchart # 1

       What agreements should we make to ensure that we plan efficiently and effectively, and that we’re still friends regardless of the final outcome?

      Voice our positive & negative views early & whenever they are on our mind.

      Be clear and comfortable with respect to money matters.

      Don’t sign anything related to money matters until it is reviewed by a financial advisor and attorney.

      Protect each person’s financial interests, especially for heirs.

      Don’t step down in lifestyle.

      Purchase a house that is a good investment, i.e., with good resale value.

      Make sure the financial plan is strong; that we will be in a better financial position by doing this than if we lived individually.

       Flipchart # 2

       What is my idea of a good retirement life?

      Financial security

      One or more events per week with friends

      One community service event per week

      Involvement in my religious community

      Ample cultural activities: theatre, musical performances, dance

      Educational opportunities—programs, trips, courses for seniors

      A college community with a good theater department or conservatory that welcomes community attendance

      Travel

      Pleasing, but not luxurious, environment

      Good climate

      Safe living environment

      Time and money for photography (for Jean & Karen)

      Singing opportunities (for Louise)

      Good market area for retirement work (for Jean)

      Good medical facilities

       Flipchart # 3

       What Geographical Areas Interest Us?

      Not overly humid

      Within 90-min. drive to an airport

      Within 30-min commute by public transportation to a major city

      Reasonable, if not low, taxes

      Low pollution

      Good proportion of sunshine to rain