A 'Shore' Thing

Well my husband and I took a drive down the shore to see a rental that accepts pets because we believe that our dog is part of the family ... he needs a little relaxing time too (it's stressful watching out the window and munching on all of the yummies around the house). We have rented the same beautiful pet friendly house for several years but unfortunately my husband can't get that week off and that house wasn't open the week we needed so we were off to find another. I know from past experience that when you call and say I need a rental ... that accepts pets .. you get that dreadfull pause . So we went to see a house that our realtor 'located' through her search and yes it was a house at the beach. But unfortunately it was just that. It was an UGHH moment. My husband said 'that it will do' and I was calm. After we left we said that we would think it over and get back since things are limited. The next day I called a few other realtors to see if there was anything else because I just can't see spending all of this money for something I wouldn't be living in if it wasn't at the beach. A beach house should be bright and airy and beachy.... not this one! Well I called and what did you know... three others that looked pretty good. Then ... this is where the web is fantastic. I went to several realty websites and typed in what I needed as well as included my need for bringing my furry friend and out popped up over 20 houses9 (not all where I really wanted but at least people are opeing up to our furry friends). I was just mad at myself for not doing this before we drove down but I just thought that the realtor would have researched it as much as I did. So I think we may be taking another trip to see some of these other houses. We already called and had someonce send us a contract for one of the houses but we have a second week to fill up. It was wonderful to have this 'power' of finding items on my own and calling up and asking about these houses rather than just having someone say I have this one. I have known my realtor for quite a long time and I'm giving the benefit of the doubt that she didn't have all of these listings in her listings at the office. Whatever ... I just know that we'll find something and that our furry kid will enjoy his beach vacation as much as we will. Here's to thinking of sunny skies and a nice surf.