11 years ago, we moved to Austria. Our first apartment was small but cozy, and we were so happy. However, it was right in the heart of Graz—a busy, noisy city full of people and cars. I’ve never been a fan of living in the middle of a big city, so we decided to search for something nearby but quieter.
And we found it. Just seven minutes from Graz, in a peaceful area with everything we needed—shops, parks, and fresh air. We stumbled upon a beautiful house on a hill with only five apartments inside. The last available one was a charming attic apartment. I was overjoyed! Living on the top floor with a balcony overlooking the city felt like a dream come true.
Every morning, I’d make my coffee, step onto the balcony, and gaze at the peaceful city below while admiring the vast sky above. Behind the house, there’s a forest and a huge meadow where our dog loves to play. It was perfect... for a while.
But time has passed. Our beloved dog is getting older, and those stairs have become too much for her. We take her out at least five times a day, and climbing up and down has become a struggle. The apartment, once spacious and cozy, now feels cramped after 10 years of collecting memories and belongings. With sloped ceilings limiting storage, every inch of space seems to vanish.
We actually tried moving five years ago. We found a huge apartment in the city, but as soon as we spent one night there, I knew it wasn’t for us. There was no nature, only walls and concrete. I felt trapped. The next morning, we returned to our old apartment, and when I stepped onto the balcony, I felt a wave of relief and gratitude. That view—our view—reminded me why this place was special.
Still, we always said, “If the ground-floor apartment ever becomes available, we should move there.”
About a month ago, I noticed our lovely downstairs neighbor clearing out her garden. At first, I thought she was just prepping for winter, but then I saw her carrying boxes from her apartment. My heart skipped a beat.
We’ve known her for 10 years—such a kind soul who never minded our dog barking or running after her cat. When I asked what was going on, she explained she had retired and could no longer afford the apartment. My mind immediately lit up: Could this be our chance?
I ran to tell my husband, and we shared one knowing look. We’re moving.
The ground-floor apartment is much bigger and has a yard! Our dog can go outside whenever she wants—just open the door and she’s in a safe, fenced area. She’ll still be in familiar surroundings, with space to explore while staying close to home. It feels like the perfect solution.
So, we started packing. Slowly but surely, we’re moving our things... just down the stairs. If all goes well, we’ll be in our new apartment by Christmas. What a gift!
Leaving our attic apartment is harder than I thought. I’ll miss that magical view from the balcony—the peaceful mornings, breathtaking sunsets, and starry nights. It’s been our safe haven for a decade.
But even though the view from our new apartment won’t be quite the same, it’s still high above the city, surrounded by nature, and full of potential for new memories.
As I pack the last few boxes, I can’t help but smile through the tears. It’s not really goodbye... it’s just hello to a new chapter—one filled with love, comfort, and new adventures.
Here’s to the memories we’ve made... and the ones still waiting for us. ❤️
“We do not remember days, we remember moments.” – Cesare Pavese
Oh dear, why do I always relate to your posts on certain levels😂😂😂 there’s always one of your posts out there that talks about me😂😂😂
I’ve been finding it difficult to move out of my apartment, I love my apartment so much that moving to a new one scares me but I think I have to move because it’s becoming too small.
Oooh, so you understand me 😂 are you living alone?
It's just that 10 years is a long time, and I'm comfortable in this apartment. We also said we wouldn't move if there were one more room, but now it is getting smaller for us two. It's funny that I'm sad, but on the other side, I'm like a little kid finally moving to a place with a garden 😂 and that also means I will have some vegetables…I am bad with flowers, but maybe my tomatoes and salat will survive 😂we will see in summer 😎 Im packing my clothes 2 days already, and I am still not sure how I can always say I do not have any clothes to wear, but I have five boxes full with my clothes. I think I am not allowed to say that I don't have any clothes 😂😂