For years I considered buying a fixer upper in Iowa while also being present for my elderly mother. She was in a nursing home. I’d say she was living in a nursing home, but she was far from “living” there.
In 2024, I filed for conservatorship after a fall left my Mom badly bruised. No family member stepped up to speak on my behalf or my Mom’s during the hearing.
After losing the court case, I came back to feeling like I needed to be present for my Mom. That’s where the decision to purchase the little house in Newton, Iowa originated.
I put a contract on the vacant little house, that needed more than a little TLC, sight unseen. After nervously packing up the car with what I thought I would need, I drove ten hours to see it for myself.
Oh my, had I made a mistake? It was worse than I imagined, but I was determined to take it on while also being present for my Mom. Little did I know at the time, my Mom’s health had taken a turn, and not for the better. While negotiating the terms of the purchase agreement for what turned out to be a foreclosure, I was able to spend time with my Mom. I was able to care for and love her during what turned out to be her final days.
Sadly, Mom passed away the same day as the closing on the little house in Iowa. Now what?
My friends and family members could not believe it, nor could I. After taking some time to grieve, I got to work.
Over the past 18 months, I drove to Iowa six times and flew once. I worked each time until my body nearly gave out. A couple of times I could hardly get in the car to leave because my body hurt so much. I would drive back home, try to recoup and then do it all again.
During some of my visits after my Mom’s passing, I was able to be present with my oldest sister, Susie. She and I enjoyed thrift shopping, several meals, Easter church service, and even a short gambling trip. In December of 2025, my dear sister passed away very unexpectantly. I lost my Mom in February and then Susie in December.
With the loss of my two closest family members, I did what I could to get my little house on the market. My nephew Shawn installed new kitchen cabinets, countertops and a dishwasher. I hired an electrician, a plumber and some great floor guys to assist me as well.
Initially I thought my Iowa project would take 2-3 years, but after just 18 months, a new buyer moved in August.
I have been asked a few times if I have any regrets about the conservatorship or buying the house. Regrets, no. Was it a burden? Yes, indeed. But I can say being present during my Mom’s final days and spending memorable times with Susie made it worth it.
God had a plan and I am so glad I had the courage to follow it. It was a journey of love, heartache, perseverance, loss and determination, but mostly faith.
Thank you to all who supported and prayed for me throughout. By the grace of God I made it through. I am grateful for the lessons I learned along the way.