This is all new to me and in such a huge way.
- I recently turned 50 and am a first-time homeowner in the area where I grew up.
I spent my entire life in developing countries where I didn’t have access to things like residential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. And now I’ve inherited this massive apartment that needs a lot of work. Last year, my parents passed away. I miss them, but I’m relieved that they didn’t have to be apart for too long. Nonetheless, I am an only child who was raised in this house’s central air conditioner. The sensation of having completed a full circle is almost overwhelming. At first, I assumed I’d return to living abroad once my parents’ final days were over. However, being back in the United States has been a pleasant surprise. To be honest, I didn’t think I’d want to stay any longer than I had to. I’m so grateful that I had the ability and job flexibility to be in the air conditioner with my parents when they needed me. It took me a while to get used to that air conditioner. But, as with many other aspects of living in the United States, I believe it all came back to me. I stayed long enough to be introduced to or re-introduced to this culture. And now I have this huge apartment to deal with, as well as some renovations. Ironically, I’m replacing the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment in my home. However, I’m going with the most environmentally friendly residential Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning I can find. The geothermal heat pump I’m having installed is much better for the environment, which makes me happy.