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!
The Truth Behind Princess Catherine’s Current Health Battle Is Uncovered
The Princess of Wales, Catherine, is still going through preventative chemotherapy after being diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. At 42, she started her treatment in late February.
Princess Catherine is feeling better.
Princess Catherine is planning to reconnect with the public after facing a tough battle with cancer. She is “feeling much stronger and healthier,” and she’s ready to make her return to royal duties. For those who don’t know, the future Queen of England was diagnosed with cancer in March 2024. Since then, she has followed her doctors’ advice and stayed out of the public eye.
But now, as a loving mother of three, she’s eager to reconnect with the public, take on more engagements, and get back to her royal responsibilities. A source shared that Catherine is excited to move away from the focus on medical treatments and doctors’ visits.
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Princess Catherine is still undergoing chemotherapy.
Kensington Palace has provided a significant update on Prince William’s travel plans to Llanelli, South Wales. It’s important to note that Catherine won’t be joining her husband on this trip because she is still undergoing preventative chemotherapy.
Princess Catherine was recently spotted looking great during a visit to a church.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, made one more public appearance on August 25 since being diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. She was seen attending Crathie Kirk, a small church in Scotland, accompanied by her husband, Prince William, as well as King Charles III and Queen Camilla. William drove the car, smiling as he conversed with his wife, and chose a navy blue suit for the occasion. The royal family typically spends their summers at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.
Prior to this, Catherine was last seen in public in July at the Wimbledon men’s singles final between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic. Catherine has been gradually returning to public life at a slow pace following the news of her health challenges.
Here’s what we know about her journey through chemotherapy.
In a heartfelt message before her appearance at Trooping the Colour on June 15, the Princess of Wales shared that her treatment is making “good progress.” However, she openly admitted that she’s having “good days and bad days.” While she’s been working from home, she reminded everyone that she’s “not out of the woods yet.”
Princess Catherine expressed hope of attending a few public events over the summer, but she urged people not to see these as her return to full public life. The Princess and her family—Prince William and their three children—have spent some of their summer break at Anmer Hall in Norfolk, where they were seen enjoying the Bear Grylls’ Go Wild festival.
In a statement released on June 14, Kensington Palace also shared a new photo of Princess Catherine, showing her leaning against a tree in Windsor Park. Alongside the photo, she expressed her gratitude for all the kind messages of support and encouragement she’s received over the last few months. These messages, she said, have made a world of difference for both her and William, helping them through the toughest times.
Kate candidly described her experience with chemotherapy, saying that she feels weak, tired, and has to listen to her body’s need for rest. But on the good days, when she feels stronger, she cherishes the time spent engaging in school life, enjoying personal activities that bring her energy and positivity, and doing a bit of work from home.
Princess Catherine has not yet returned to a full schedule of public engagements. Any future appearances will be carefully decided based on how she’s feeling at the time. There is no set timeline for her return to full-time duties, as she is being given the time she needs to rest and recover.
Earlier Princess Catherine debuted a new ring, and here’s the special meaning behind it.
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