Dream or reality?

Eight weeks since I finally moved into my house. After a month spent moving and a process that began in early March where I went on a research trip to Styria to get to know the area and look at a few houses that I knew were for sale. After a few days and environmental checks, there was one house that I wanted to take a closer look at.

The house is on the main street of Aflenz, a small town that has been a health resort for over 100 years and a health center is run here. In 1920, the town received confirmation as a Luftkurort, i.e. recognition that the atmosphere here is healthy and clean.

The house was built around 1500 and is the fifth oldest house in the town. The house was used as a weaving workshop and later a tailor's workshop and was owned by the same family for several generations.

And maybe it was that story that spoke to me, because I had imagined that I was looking for a roof over my head with space for a loom and a small garden for carrots. And my interest in textiles has been there for as long as I can remember, so you could say that it all somehow clicks together.

I have always dreamed of an old house or a house with a soul. A year ago I was on my way to Iceland, driving through the Westfjords, which were adorned with the most beautiful colors, incredible, and I imagined that this is where I wanted to be, but unfortunately I soon saw that it was not realistic for me and my finances and my quality of life and my chances of surviving would not be easy.

So I started to look at what was on offer here, I did not expect a 500-year-old house at the other end of Austria to be the choice and that I would start over in a foreign town. But the house welcomes me well and I only feel a warm and friendly welcome and I can say nothing but that it is a welcome for a foreign Icelander.

There are many projects ahead, but basically the house is in good condition with heating and everything you need to feel comfortable.

I've enjoyed settling in and getting to know the house and surroundings, allowing my creativity to take over with my paintbrush in the air, small projects and the sewing machine ticking regularly, I'll save larger projects for next year.