Plane ride back from NY was pretty bumpy, but good to be home - it actually is quite nice this time of year - with mommy and baby. Leaving this weather behind is crazy compared to New York, but when I think that, I just think of all the space we'll have and of the lack of people and traffic. They're pretty much mutually exclusive unless one has a great deal of money.

The NY house purchase is moving ahead. We had the place inspected Thursday, and I walked the property with the owner. There's nothing substantial that prevents us buying the place, but a number of little problems added up to us requesting a lowering of the offering price, which is currently being considered by the sellers. We should hear back in a day or so. I expect they'll grant a small reduction but not one to cover all the things that should be addressed. Details later.

We listed with Century 21 last Monday; the agent is the same person who found the house for us in 1999. She convinced us to raise the price $25K because she thinks the market will bear it. She had an open house on Sunday, but only several couples came by; she's bringing another one out tomorrow.

The neighboring house lowered their price about the same time we raised ours. They're using the same C21 office to sell. They have a contingent offer already. Apparently our place "shows" a lot better than theirs. So hope remains for a not-too-long sale.

At this point it's unclear how long we'll remain in CA. Cornell's saying take what time is needed, but be back here as soon as you can. Mixed messages for sure. Our closing NY is set for May 17 and I imagine that would mean our last day here is about May 12th, but could be much sooner.