Living in Manly at last!

A quick note to say that we have finally made our residence in Manly! It took 3 months, 4 residences, and countless hours of effort resulting in repeated rejection by realtors because of our dog. Finally, last weekend the planets aligned, and we found not one but 4 places that accepted us, Oskar and all.

The two biggest contenders were:

• a 3 bedroom, shabby-but-acceptable place that we can't afford, a mere one block from the beach; or
• a 2 bedroom, much nicer place that we can't afford (but less so), about 6 blocks from the beach.

We took the 2 bedder, and it is very nice. Quite large, hardwood throughout, immaculate finishes, modern kitchen and bath. At least it feels like we are getting close to what we are paying for!

We spent our first night there last night, after arriving at our new place around 10pm with a queen size mattress, a bed frame, two folding chairs, a lounge chair, 4 small baskets, 3 pillows, and a side table all mostly in a Toyota Corolla. Have you already guessed "Ikea"? Tonight the assembly begins...