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!
In 1983, a 16-pound baby caught everyone’s attention: You won’t believe what he looks like now!
In 1983, Patricia Clarke, then 24, had a strong feeling that her baby was about to get bigger. There were many big babies in her family, but the size of her newborn still surprised her.
Patricia gave birth to Kevin Robert Clark, who weighed an astonishing 16 pounds, making him possibly the largest baby born at Community Memorial Hospital and possibly in New Jersey at the time. Despite his size, Kevin was perfectly healthy, although he did not fit into a standard crib and his baby clothes were too small.
Kevin’s extraordinary height quickly made him famous, with appearances on popular shows such as Saturday Night Live and Good Morning America. As he grew up, his height continued to make headlines. By age 12, he was already 5’7″ and continued to grow. By the time he reached middle school, he was 6’5″ and he didn’t stop there.
Kevin humorously tells the New York Post: “Not a day goes by that someone doesn’t ask me how tall I am. I like to joke that I’m 5’9″. When people ask if I play basketball, I ask them if they play mini golf.”
Now 40, Kevin is a former soldier who lives with his 6’1″ wife and their Great Dane. He has grown to an impressive height of 6’9″, which he easily manages.
Check out the video below to learn more about Kevin’s incredible journey. Despite the challenges of growing up in the spotlight, it seems that Kevin has adapted well. We wish him all the best as he continues his journey! Please SHARE this amazing story with your family and friends!
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