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!
MY NEIGHBOR LEFT HER CAT BEHIND BECAUSE HER NEW BOYFRIEND “DIDN’T LIKE CATS” – I TOOK HER IN AND WILL NEVER BETRAY HER
I was shocked when I heard the news. My neighbor, who had this sweet, loving cat for years, moved in with her new boyfriend and left her cat outside to fend for herself. The reason? He “didn’t like cats.”
For weeks, I watched Bella wander the streets, confused and scared, clearly waiting for her owner to return. It broke my heart. One cold, rainy night, I couldn’t take it anymore and brought her inside. She was skinny, shivering, and desperate for love. Now, Bella is curled up on my couch, purring peacefully, safe and loved.
How can anyone prioritize a relationship over a loyal, trusting companion? Would you give up your pet for a partner who didn’t accept them? Would you leave behind a creature who’s been by your side, offering unconditional love, just because someone else couldn’t see their value?
The situation with Bella made me realize the deep bond between humans and animals. It’s a connection that transcends words, a silent understanding that only those who have experienced it can truly comprehend. Bella’s story is a stark reminder of the irresponsibility and cruelty that some people can inflict on innocent creatures.
I couldn’t help but wonder how many other pets are abandoned or neglected each year, simply because their owners prioritize new relationships over their loyal companions. It’s a heartbreaking reality that highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership.
As I watched Bella settle into her new home, I couldn’t shake the feeling of anger and disappointment towards her former owner. How could someone be so heartless? I’ve always believed that pets are family, and to abandon them is a betrayal of the trust they place in us.
In the weeks that followed, Bella continued to thrive. She gained weight, her fur became soft and shiny, and her playful spirit returned. She was no longer a scared, lost animal, but a happy, contented cat.
I often think about what might have happened to Bella if I hadn’t intervened. Would she have survived the harsh winter? Would she have found another loving home? The thought fills me with dread.
Bella’s story is a reminder that we all have a responsibility to care for our pets. Whether it’s a dog, a cat, a bird, or any other animal, they deserve our love, our attention, and our commitment. They rely on us for their well-being, and we must never fail them.
I hope that Bella’s story will inspire others to be more compassionate and responsible pet owners. Let’s work together to create a world where all animals are treated with kindness and respect.
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