Seeking an escape from their busy city lives, four couples decided to create a unique community of tiny vacation homes to fulfill their retirement dreams together.
This eco-friendly retreat, tailored to individual needs, allows the couples to enjoy a shared experience surrounded by their closest friends. After more than two decades of friendship, these Texas couples were eager to find a quiet place away from their busy Austin homes, a place where they could immerse themselves in nature and rejuvenate.
When they discovered a piece of land near the Llano River, just an hour from Austin and perfect for nature lovers, they recognized its potential despite its rugged condition.
Fred Zipp, a former editor of the Austin American-Statesman, shared his first impressions with Garden and Gun magazine: “At first, it wasn’t very inviting”. He and his wife, Jodi, are among four couples who care about environmental sustainability and minimizing their carbon footprint. “This place has its charm, even when it’s dry”, Fred noted, pointing out the herds of wild buffalo that roam the rugged landscape. “We’re focused on conserving water for the native trees and grasses, which are really beautiful.”
The couple originally planned to build a house together, but after learning about the tiny house movement, they changed their focus and decided on individual houses and a communal building for gatherings.
With the help of San Antonio architect Matt Garcia, the vision took shape. With a budget of $40,000 per house, Garcia designed four compact 350-square-foot cabins, each equipped with a double bed, kitchenette and bathroom.
“We wanted a place where we could spend quality time together, eat together and enjoy each other’s company, while still maintaining privacy when needed”, Jodi explained.
The designs also included sustainable elements such as roofs that capture rainwater while meeting conservation guidelines. To combat the hot Texas climate, the cabins are insulated with spray foam and feature large overhangs to minimize heat gain.
Garcia focused on creating an inviting interior, contrasting the sleek metal facades with warm, grained plywood surfaces. The natural gray concrete floors add an affordable, stylish touch.
Large windows throughout the open floor plan allow for plenty of natural light and offer stunning river views. Additionally, a 1,500-square-foot community cabin serves as a hub for social activities and features a guest bedroom, living area, kitchen, and even a pool!
Reflecting on the cultural shift after the recession, Garcia said: “People began to realize that happiness does not come from owning too much space or things. I am proud to work with clients who embrace the idea that less is more”.
Although the eight friends are not yet ready for full-time retirement, their small community, called “Llano Exit Strategy” or “Bestie Row”, offers the perfect retreat. When they are not using the cabins, they rent them out to vacationers interested in the tiny house lifestyle.
“It’s like living in a Disney movie here! We have rabbits, bobcats, deer and a variety of birds. We discover more wildlife every time we visit”, they shared.
The story of “Bestie Row” sparked a lively debate on social media, with many expressing admiration for the couple’s commitment to friendship. One comment read: “What a brilliant idea! Friends building a community together is the way to go as we get older”. However, others raised concerns about the potential risks of living together in such a close relationship, suggesting that friendships could suffer.
Would you consider creating a micro-community to spend more time with your closest friends? Share this story and let us hear your thoughts!
Riona was cruelly set on fire — after a year of recovery, she’s finally going to her new home
The degree of cruelty some humans have towards dogs is simply unfathomable. Riona, a cute puppy, endured the most agony of all when her owner cruelly burned her on fire the previous year.
But Riona is finally moving to her new house, almost precisely a year after that terrible event.
Residents of Nutbush, Tennessee saw the horrifying sight last June when Riona, a pitbull mix, ran down the street while completely engulfed in flames. It was obvious from the gas scent that she had been purposefully set ablaze.
The degree of cruelty some humans have towards dogs is simply unfathomable. Riona, a cute puppy, endured the most agony of all when her owner cruelly burned her on fire the previous year.
But Riona is finally moving to her new house, almost precisely a year after that terrible event.
Residents of Nutbush, Tennessee saw the horrifying sight last June when Riona, a pitbull mix, ran down the street while completely engulfed in flames. It was obvious from the gas scent that she had been purposefully set ablaze.
The degree of cruelty some humans have towards dogs is simply unfathomable. Riona, a cute puppy, endured the most agony of all when her owner cruelly burned her on fire the previous year.
But Riona is finally moving to her new house, almost precisely a year after that terrible event.
Residents of Nutbush, Tennessee saw the horrifying sight last June when Riona, a pitbull mix, ran down the street while completely engulfed in flames. It was obvious from the gas scent that she had been purposefully set ablaze.
Riona’s tale was told in a TikTok video that went viral and received millions of views, inspiring compassion for Riona all around the world.
Riona’s journey to recovery was lengthy, requiring multiple skin grafts to address the fourth-degree burns that covered her entire body. Riona was claimed to have been frightened by the experience, yet she was also upbeat during her recuperation.
Mclemore remarked, “She’s just always wagging her tail.”I suppose that’s what makes it even worse. Just being so lovely, and for someone to do something like this to her—not that it would ever be OK. She simply adores everyone.
The Commercial Appeal was informed by Natoli that “she’s actually kind of cute with one ear.”It adds cuteness to her personality.
Supporters brought presents and donations for Riona, and Tails of Hope kept posting updates on her progress.
Quishon Brown, 43, was taken into custody in the meanwhile for allegedly setting Riona on fire. He was accused by the police of misdemeanor assault, two felonies, severe animal cruelty, and setting fire to personal property. Trial in the case is presently pending.
A Facebook post claims that Riona’s story contributed to the passage of a new Tennessee law against animal abuse.
Riona’s condition gradually got better over the course of several months. Riona’s story has lately had an encouraging development: nearly precisely a year after she was set on fire, she is finally moving to her new home!
Riona would be traveling for 10 hours to reach her new permanent home, according to a post made by Tails of Hope.
“We wanted to find her a forever home, and we succeeded in doing so,” Natoli stated to the Commercial Appeal. “Riona has a large yard to play in, children to play with, other dogs to play with, and a family that understands what her injuries were and has experience in the medical field.”
The rescue posted on Facebook, saying, “Riona’s story is not coming to an end, in fact it is really just beginning.” “Our ‘warrior’ girl, we have all shared in this miracle together.”
Tails of Hope added that just after Riona departed for her new home, they took in another rescue dog who had suffered burns, serving as a reminder of how important animal rescue work is never done. They wrote, “There is always someone else in need.” We get to participate in yet another story right now.
What a terrible ordeal for this beautiful, kind dog to go through, but we’re overjoyed that Riona is moving on to her new home after a year!
Please spread the word about this encouraging update!
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