2023 and Me // SIDE HUSSELEN no. 25

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Shoutout to the real MVP of this video, the sticky note ✨✨

[@rachellynncreates2703]

All hail the sticky note!

[@johannahayhtio8608]

Im caremanager/headnurse in private healthcare and my coworkers laugh at me cause I do wawe sticky note in my fingers in every meeting, all hail sticky notes from here too 🙂

[@GiraffeLoverJen]

Hip hip hooray! You rock, Sticky Note! Thanks to you and your fellow kind, for keeping the world remembering our shit!

[@damogranheart5521]

And it was an accident! Really, I worked for 3M many moons ago!

[@deloresgutierrez1350]

Sticky notes are addictive. Hope you hit 1 million subs this year!

[@CharredFibers]

Bianca....you are the person 30 year old me wanted to be. I can't wait to see what kind of home you find. Have you considered moving to England? I know it's a HUGE move, but it's fun to think about. As for the ink...like you said your body, your choice. I have 7 of them myself. Thanks for inviting us into your office every week. I'm very happy I've found your channel. Here's hoping this will be a fantastic year

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Janie! I wish I could move to England, it's just too far above my budget currently 😬 I hope to one day though, if I can manage it!

[@Zzzzzzzzz216]

@@TheClosetHistorian I hope you do!

[@Lisa_Flowers]

As someone in my early to mid twenties who still isn't financially independent because of a mental illness that prevents me from working, I really relate to feeling like the only way you'll be independent is by way of some miracle. In my case that might be true, since my mental issues don't seem to be going away on their own, and I don't have the resources or the support to deal with it professionally (trust me, i've tried _really_ hard). So it's really inspiring to see someone who felt that way get really close to achieving that goal! Thank you for sharing your journey, as always. Here's to hoping I can make progress in the same direction this year.

[@ah5721]

I'm 30 and have struggled with SAD anxiety and depression since I was 17 . I hope things get better for you and you can get the :sleep, good food and exercise you need to help combate some of your issues. I find a light therapy lamp and mugwart help chase away the depression . catnip for sleep . hope you can get the help you need financially to!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Lisa 💜 I hope that things can improve and will surprise you. Working is not as important as living, and productivity is never the measure of anyone's worth. Have grace with yourself ❤️

[@Lisa_Flowers]

@@TheClosetHistorian Considering that all my siblings and both parents are emotionally manipulative and/or abusive, i'm starting to feel less and less like that's gonna happen. Gotta love living with people you desperately need to escape while being uniquely unable to leave because living with them is the thing that made you mentally ill and financially dependent. Not anyone else's problem and I appreciate the kind comment. It's just fucking hard to see a way out. I actually would need a miracle and I can't see one coming, and it's not through any lack of effort on my part.

[@thegriffinwithin]

​@@Lisa_Flowers Hmmm parents hey. Is there any possible way to move in with a group of people?

[@Lisa_Flowers]

​@@thegriffinwithinno. I appreciate the concern though

[@mikececconi2677]

I will say, there are still some of those types of houses are still semi-available up here in the Mohawk Valley, between Utica and Albany, still semi-affordably. Christine McConnell found one in Ilion, just east of Utica (my area, more or less) of that type. Like, also, you can jump on the Amtrak in Utica or Amsterdam or Schenectady and get down to NYC pretty easily. Just a thought for ya!

[@Kinglystateof]

I live vicariously through you I’m currently fighting up hill to find a way to get into fashion school and I love watching you create and map out your projects. Thank you for sharing all of your amazing work it helps me keep my own dreams alive 💚💜🖤

[@Groovygrace365]

Keep going!! You’ve got this!!

[@kathyjohnson2043]

I hope you get to where you want to be ASAP!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Keep at it!! I hope everything works out better than you could have dreamed 💜

[@lilitpenrod9454]

Our realtor (also my stepmom haha) just couldn't understand that we WANTED an old house that hadn't been remodeled into a greige open floor plan. But now we have a lovely old home that has everyone asking "is it haunted?"

[@VeretenoVids]

Do we have the same mom?! I have teased her for years about her favorite decorating color being beige and she's thinks I'm insane for wanting a house built before 1980. Our house was built in 1910. It's not the Victorian with a turret that I had dreamed of since I was a kid, but it has 90% of it's original woodwork, pocket doors, the original front door, etc. AND it was in our budget so we're quite happy with it. (Though we did have a SURPRISE! whole house remodel when we discovered the shenanigans the prior owner did with electricity.)

[@lilitpenrod9454]

@@VeretenoVids same! Ours is a late 30s, but the interior was done in an earlier victorian style and has awesome pocket doors and wood floors and stained glass windows.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

All hail a pocket door!!! 🦇✨🐈‍⬛

[@ruthkirkparick3535]

Your life is your canvas and deserves to be embellished as much as you see fit. It's your body, your home/office, your creativity. If it pleases you, it is right!

[@AntiqueAgenda]

I giggled when you said "Higgeldy Piggeldy" and look forward to your house hunting journey and watching you create your Gothic Jewelbox🖤.

[@stormyweather2773]

I absolutely adore your content and this ‘vlog’ just confirms to me as to why ! Vintage fashion….gothic/cyber fashion …trying to ‘adult’ ….sense of personal belief/boundaries/expression…travel ( I live just outside of London btw) …Art and Architecture….Collecting and collating….Dark jewel tones …and to top it all , a Dr Samuel Johnson's quote !!! ….in my humble opinion ….this is a perfect channel !!! And long may you flourish ! 💕

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!! London is truly my favorite place, I can't wait to get back and soak in the vibes 😍❤️

[@mathnerd3364]

Ooh, a live stream of pattern drafting?! Yes please! Just got my copy of the drafting book you recommend (as I am not always a visual learner, so I like the idea of having the book in front of me when you explain how to draft this or that). I appreciate you so much. I dislike fast fashion with a vengeance and love making my own clothes. You are helping me learn to make clothes I love to wear, rather than just making them and letting them sit in the bottom of a trunk. So, thanks!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I hope you find the book helpful!

[@lacyminoux9177]

I love that you are humble enough to thank “us” for giving you a job, but you work hard! It shows in every video, and in everything you do. Also, I have been noticing how well known you are. I have watched many videos that cite your channel for detailed, expert or complete instructions in patterning and garment construction.

[@Cali-at-the-beach]

You have evolved from talented creative to an amazing grownup who is crazy talented and wickedly beautiful! Well done YOU!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!!

[@theredbarron100]

Christine McConnell has been renovating an old mansion in upstate New York. You might enjoy checking out some of her videos on her experiences. Highly recommend her Patreon to truly see all the wonderful projects she embarks on.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Oh I follow her religiously of course! 🦇 She's got a gorgeous home for sure!

[@dragonflycreations4024]

I'm sure you know to ignore the haters but just in case you need help drowning them out: Getting a fixer upper is a great idea! Why pay more for someone else's personality poured into a house? You can do it! Your tattoos are beautiful, absolutely beautiful, and don't detract from your vintage style at all. They make you happy so of course you should get more! Trusting science is a great plan, I'm glad you're doing all you can to stay safe! Your passion and creativity make your channel a joy to watch, can't wait to see what adventures await you in the new year! ❤️

[@williaminadonn7412]

I'm from the UK and I'm 70 next month I watch your videos/vlogs every week and I have 5 tattoos xx

[@damogranheart5521]

I'm from Minnesota, and I turned 73 yesterday, January 18th! And I had a blast! May your coming birthday bring you joy and laughter!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Williamina!! Happy early Birthday!

[@caitmcg4382]

Oh my gosh can't wait to see more of the ice dyeing!! Crossing my fingers for your house search, Bianca. I'm also ace and buying my own place was the only traditional marker of adulthood that I cared about. Finally moving into my condo felt amazing!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Cait! Ice dying videos coming very soon!!

[@chaeburger]

Hey Bianca, I've bought a house before (a little 1955 ranch with the original kitchen and pink tiled bathroom) but when you first go to look at financing find a mortgage broker specifically. They're whole job is to match you with a mortgage lender that will work best for you. And they usually get paid by the lender, not you. It saves a lot time and money and stress, especially if you've never bought a house before. Not sponsored, just speaking from experience 💚

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thanks Chae! I've got my parents to help advise me as well since they've done the whole shebang before 😅

[@sewcute_sewvintage]

Well I like that Etsy delivers to Canada 😀 Speaking of which Nova Scotia has lots of old houses too! LoL I don't live there but I've seen amazing places. Also how great is your dad! Gets you an iron and a computer. Just a dad supporting his daughters ambitions. That's the sweetest thing ever!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! He's a great dad for sure ❤️

[@FilomenaJackStudio]

Hey, Nudge Nudge! I found an 1897 Victorian in Elmira NY…for less than $100K. We have sidewalks, and also mountains and water fun and autumn and art and great food and fabric stores ;) (oh, and me). Dude! I have knob and tube…all good.

[@caraid9263]

Your tutorials are second to none, literally I feel like I get a full on sewing education from you! I know it’s figure of speech, but it’s no miracle you make a living at it, you’re amazing at what you do and hardworking!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Caraid!

[@ailsadixon408]

So incredibly happy for you Bianca. I can't put into words how important your content has been to me over the last 4 years. Thank you. I can't wait to see all your gilded and glorious dreams come to fruition.✨✨

[@elizabethross6895]

Come to Salem MA! Or Northampton MA! We would love to have you :)

[@annettebroomhall8617]

As someone who has renovated a few houses, including wall " adjustments", all you need at a bare minimum, is running water close by, and as a luxury, a flushing toilet. Though once you get past 30, a shower and a good mattress is vital and the flushing toilet is a necessity. Enjoy the process and don't rush. Live in your new place for at least a month if you can, before choosing what to do. Remember, just because that particular room has a bath, or a kitchen, it doesn't mean it can't be something else.hope everything falls into place quickly and easily and you find your dream soon

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Annette!

[@paulaphilbrick357]

As someone who made three cross country moves in as many years….rent first. You need to live in a place for a period of time to see if you like it and if your ‘peeps’ are there. Scout out neighborhoods, climates, etc. before buying. When you fall in love with a place, THEN look for your dream home. Cue: “This is the voice of experience!”

[@BethVonBlack]

Your voice was made for voiceover work. I just love listening to you! Also, I own a Victorian house in England - I'd soooo come over to the US and help with renovation work Bianca! hehe! Beth x

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Beth! I have a silly big dream of buying a piece of land in England and building a US style Victorian house on it with all the "queen anne" details 😂 Not that I wouldn't mind one of the gorgeous grade II or III listed places, a castle maybe, that sort of thing ✨

[@mmesanaa]

sidenote: OMG if you made a sewing book, I would buy the heck out of it, and gift it to all my friends!

[@vikkizoo1]

I purchased my first home, as a single lady when I was 32. A 3bd 2b expanded ranch at the end of a cul de sac on an oversized lot. The little room was my sewing room. It's doable...I didn't have all my ducks in a row but I made it work. I then collected kids and a husband, dogs, cats, goats, and a few more houses. 😊

[@lillyw5556]

Husband and I bought a house that had been massively updated a few years ago, it still has some of its original features (the tiled hallway into the house) but others have been done away with. Most of the updating work had been totalled by the previous owner so we got the house cheap for it's size and location but we're absolutely saving to get contractors and then doing as much as we can ourselves. Husband is a minimalist, he would happily live in a box painted white. I am the opposite and aspire to return our poor abused house to her former Victorian glory (except the bathroom, I need a modern bathroom). It's going to take us a decade or so to do the whole place due to work we need doing, but it will be a decade well spent. If there's no rush to do a thing, it's far more fun to take your time and wait until you find that perfect jewel tone to go on your walls. Good luck with the house hunt!

[@annguglielmino8989]

I bought my first house in my 50's. There is nothing like it. I finally felt I was HOME. Good luck and congratulations!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Ann!

[@agcons]

Keep looking even if it seems like all the older houses have been ruined; I'm confident you'll find one. It took me quite a while in late 2018 to find an older house in my area (eastern Ontario) that hadn't been "upgraded" to the point of being undesireable, but I managed it. However, during my house search it quickly got to the point where I was complaining to friends about how "the Mad Updaters are ruining all the old houses they can find". It's even worse here now, and you're bang-on about "open concept" plans in 100+ year old houses, along with all those delightful tones of white, grey, and beige. The Mad Updaters are everywhere, and I swear they've all got the same two or three issues of some pedestrian decorating magazine. I was not able to avoid white-painted woodwork but at least the interior had not been gutted. The important stuff like the wiring and plumbing had been replaced, and very important: the solid wood wedge-built staircase (no nails) had not been painted at all, let alone "artistically", probably because they ran out of time. It needs re-finishing, but that's easier than stripping seven different colours of paint off it.

[@IAmCraftingAgain]

You might like to visit Avebury Manor in Britain when you're here, it's a National Trust house where you can touch everything. Each room is decorated for a different decase. It's the best old house to go to, in my opinion. It's an hour and a half by train from London.

[@minispatz]

I´m all in about decorating and nest building vlogs!

[@kjtherrick4031]

Miss Envious here concerning your trip to London. I hope you have a wonderful and safe trip and look forward to seeing/hearing about as much of it as you want to share. Your plans for 2023 sound great. I look forward to sharing in your house hunt, purchase, and decorating adventures. Looking forward to all the creativity you choose to share.

[@Neonatnoon]

You look like a cozy beautiful moth in this video. I am excited for you to get your new home soon and all the fun projects you will create.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!!

[@aitcheymoo]

Soooo much to look forward to! The livestreams, the househunt, the London trip! I'm glad you're trying to pace yourself with the makes 😊 Do let us know if you can manage a meetup when you're in London, I would happily take a day off to come and say hi, or offer a spare bed if needed!

[@heatherkemp1846]

A meet up in London would be fantastic. I always look forward to your videos, always so enjoyable. Xx

[@kaytiej8311]

Ooooo! Live streaming? Yes please! Love your goals and Sticky carries off his role with great aplomb!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kaytie!

[@meagannavarre7228]

As someone who grew up in Ohio and also lived in Colorado for a few years, Ohio winters are rough because you won’t see the sun. Like ever. Recently, we went a few weeks without seeing the sun. So that’s tough. But small Ohio towns have some very cute houses. Columbus is a good sized city, though it is rapidly growing. You also CAN drive tho NYC from Ohio, it’s only 7-9 hours. ;)

[@paperboundprotagonist]

1. Rochester, New York has some wonderful old homes. 2. I love when any other youtuber mentions Leena Norms. Good luck with all of your goals!

[@annekelly8168]

Also Geneva and Ithaca. Not great with public transportation tho to NYC. Anywhere in the Finger Lakes but yes property taxes 😮

[@dismae7784]

Lots of good homes that match ur description in PA! Especially around Philly, which is a lovely city : ) Godspeed, friend

[@jeannegreeneyes1319]

You may want to check out Coastal Maine. Its not all expensive touristy stuff and not a completely unreasonable drive to larger cities. Legendary Fall colours 🍁🌲🍂🌲🌊

[@mistletoekiss4327]

If you know Christine McConnell, she may know some good places up there to buy, since she lives in upstate NY. Also so proud of you and will continue to support you and your dreams!

[@phyllisstein1837]

"Mortgages, they're a blast!" -said no one ever....

[@gardengirl4718]

I love your tattoos and am looking forward to following along with all your adventures this year! Oh ya, and the sewing content is pretty great too! You have taught me more about sewing in the last year than I have learned in all my (ahem..... long'ish?) years put together. You are such a great teacher!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you so much!

[@jeansando6849]

If you’re okay with Vermont, think about Minnesota! We have some very cute Victorians (I live in a 1910 with amazing woodwork) and yes, it gets cold here, but cold days mean you can stay in and SEW! You can also make lots of things from wonderful wool. And if you’re wondering about shopping, just make sure that you are within a couple hours drive of SR Harris which has two big stores in the Twin Cities area. There’s a video somewhere out here on KZbin touring their bigger warehouse. I regularly get wool there for $12 a yard. We’re a very progressive state and a great place to live.

[@stinkzillaz]

The blue sticky flying around on the finger LOL! You’re adorable! Also come to Albany NY. Direct train ride to NYC fabric district and living in beautiful Hudson Valley !

[@allipalli6197]

I'm so excited for you, looking for your first home to own and all the possibilities....I look forward to watching your progress and wish you all the luck in the world. As a cat owner I agree, no home is complete without a couple of snobs to keep you in check :) 😻💜❣❤

[@RavenInAGoldenCage]

Just wanted to hop into the comments to thank you for the wonderful content you've been making. You taught me so much about patterns and your videos really help me with my anxiety. I love all your ideas for this year's content/perhaps streaming. It'd be so interesting to see the house content. I'll change jobs soon and then hopefully can support your patreon on a higher tier. I wish you all the best for this year ☺️

[@armedvsokord]

I would like to echo this comment. It's really well stated and expresses my thoughts too.

[@perplexedbystander6203]

Ohio has the Friends of Felines Rescue Center in Defiance. I watch their channel sometimes. They look after disabled cats as well as strays. Anyway, good luck with the house hunting.

[@sarahgoetz1170]

Excited for your house hunt. Hopefully you will share some peeks at some lovely gothic houses along your adventure!

[@ThomiBMcIntyre]

Ithaca NY would be a great fir for you. And houses in surrounding small towns are full of nicely affordable and mostly Victorian hidden treasures… plus we could be neighbors!

[@samanthat7553]

Ok, hear me out.... Gettysburg, PA. Super spooky vibes, I could TOTALLY see you thriving there. Maybe I'm just partial to Pennsylvania because I've lived here all my life? It is a little more expensive to live here with kind of higher taxes BUT you're also within driving/train distance to Philly, NYC, DC, and Boston if you really wanted. BIG BONUS: You'll be super close to Amish country, aka. Lancaster County where textiles absolutely thrive because of the Amish and Mennonite population that make all their clothes and quilts. Oh YOU COULD DO SPOOKY QUILTS!! So many ideas 😊

[@J104090]

Someone may have already said this, but I recommend getting pre approved for a home loan. For the self employed, they require A LOT of documentation, so it will be helpful to have that done ahead of time. That way when you find your perfect place, all you have to do is sign papers, not be waiting on pins and needles for approval.

[@concettapiekos7067]

Oh my goodness! I so hope 2023 brings you the home of your dreams!!! Good Luck!

[@littlestagpens8050]

You described exactly what I’m looking for as well. And yes, when I see pics of a “remodel”, I say, “What have they done to you??” I keep looking

[@TheClosetHistorian]

It's always such a bummer 😫

[@frannygrace2191]

WOW! I am so excited for you--thank you for taking us along on this amazing ride!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Franny!

[@Sew_Learning]

Oh Bianca, I am so happy to hear that you are going back to London for a visit. I was hoping that you’d be able to travel back as I understand how inspiring that city is. Am hoping the house hunting, buying and moving is a 2023 reality and that all goes smoothly. You have taught me so much over these past several years, and I thank you! Love the tatts ❤ ❤ Sending best wishes and good vibes from Down Under 🥰💚💚💚🥳🎉😎🇦🇺

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Rhonda!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@ruthkirkparick3535]

I, for one, would like to follow your housing journey. Whatever you care to share will be exciting for me.

[@kirstenpaff8946]

I am sure you have already considered this, Bianca, but for anyone else house hunting, find out as much information as possible about the heating system. Old houses often still have oil heating, which is not the safest and a pain and costs a fortune to remove. Also, depending on the ductwork in the house, it is also expensive to put in a modern heating system.

[@cathypickard4615]

Bianca, we lived in Warwick, NY in the late 60's early 70's. It's 48 miles west of NYC. Beautiful historic town, 4 miles from the NJ border. Don't know what the housing market is like these days, but it's a place to start. Also close to the Pocano's for weekend escapes. 🥰 You're not only need your down payment but also closing costs and paying for the house to be inspected before you buy it. After seeing your studio and bedroom, you will probably fit into a small u-haul truck with a car tow attached. Saw you in Abby Cox's Christmas gift ideas video - I know that she does some live streaming sometimes. Talk to her about that. 🥰 I'm sure you know what great fabric stores there are in the London area. I hope you have a great time on your trip. Can't wait to see where you find a house. Wish that I was younger and could help you with your move. I've moved 45 times and have loved 99% of all the places that I lived. 🥰🥰 Lastly, concerning your writing, my sister is Julie Cochrane and wrote Callie's War with John Ringo as well as two more books, all published by Baine . She was first in a writer's group online and he read some of her material and subsequently contacted her. If you want her contact info to talk to her about her experience, let me know. I do know that first time writers have a hard time finding a publisher who will take them on, and maybe she can help you. 🥰🥰 I wish you every success in your goals this year! Love from Cathy in Alabama 🥰💞🥰

[@debiapostol]

Bianca … we would watch you walk the dog!!! ANYthing you do is interesting to us for NUMerous reasons, not the least of which is your personality but, more importantly, IS your sense of style, your talent, and your ability to make attainable what, to the rest of US, seems to be comPLETEly out of the realm of our own possibilities - sewing! I have a sewing machine, I hem drapes, I make basket liners, I fix seams, I’ve even sewn a Square Dance Dress or two but oh, how I would LOVE to have a corset and a beautiful (gothic) Victorian gown … YOU have made that dream (even at MY age) seem attainable!! Go you!!

[@elainebye9090]

I love watching just about anything you do. Live streams sound epic! Maybe you could show us beading bugs live... My son got me a bug brooch for Christmas one year. His wife asked, "Are you sure she'll like that?" He simply said, "Yup." I loooove bugs--in the abstract as you keep reminding us.

[@cassafrass098]

It is my millennial-living-in-a-HCOL-area dream to watch you buy your dream house so I can't wait to see those videos! Happy new year :)

[@thespurgeons0708]

Be sure to check for first-time homebuyer programs that you might qualify for in the area you decide on. All I had to do was attend a two hour course at the library to qualify to save $1000 on the fees to make the purchase. Sometimes you can also qualify for very low or no down payment on qualifying homes, especially in smaller towns/rural areas.

[@gabriellecress3867]

South Western llinois just outside of St. Louis. If you're into historic homes it's a hidden gem with gorgeous houses at a decent price point. It's a short drive from St. Louis, which is an overlooked city with a very active LGBTQ+ community. Illinois is stunning in the fall, with beautiful scenery. Best if all cost of living is actually affordable.

[@thelmadelyte5890]

I've been watching you for years, you're a queer icon and an inspiration but the gentle tone telling anti-vaxxers and anti-tattooists to mind their business? Well, it prompted me to thank you for what you do when I've just been watching for years So thank you and best of luck!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Thelma ❤

[@chaeburger]

You are doing a great job! Thank you for everything

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Chae! 💜

[@22mendonca]

Great plans afoot for you lovely! Yay, the UK awaits your impending visit with open arms!🇬🇧 Fabulous!! 👏👏👏Good for you chica, your body, your rules 100%!!! Xxx

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! ❤️❤️❤️

[@22mendonca]

@@TheClosetHistorian 💋

[@kathyjohnson2043]

I'm thrilled to see another two thousand subscribers! Keep doing you!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kathy!

[@sus8e462]

Exciting plans! Invest in a good home inspector to ensure the bones & mechanicals are actually good & any updates have been properly done (i.e. red flags with "flips")--else a "simple" painting job turns into a nightmare... But understanding the risk, it's worth it!!

[@estelledavenport1323]

it is great that you share your life. I am sorry people have been judged 😝. London it great and like you I loved walking around it street feeling the energy of the city. I know you will have a great time when you come over. good lunch with your plans warm regards estelle UK

[@ceara3100]

"Greige" LOL! Grey is the new beige for sure.

[@AnnTilleyHandmade]

I’m here for the home hunt/decor content!

[@gray5627]

There are so many glorious small towns in New England, I hope you will be able to find the perfect place! Owning your own home is a joy in itself, and worth the work and effort. If you want to be close to NYC, eastern PA has some nice towns which are only a short train or bus ride from NYC. Something to think about, anyways. Good luck with your dreams! :-)

[@juliabetts9801]

1. I love your tattoos I have just had a bee 🐝 one done because of you 😊 2. I live in Newcastle in the uk and I love going to London it’s just a lovely city glad your coming over 😊

[@Zillah82]

There are a lot of bargain home instagrams with sometimes really nice old homes. I bought last year. It was an adventure but you got this.

[@dawnvickerstaff]

I love London. I live about 60 miles from there and travel is a bit problematic right now so I've not been for a too long time. Enjoy your visit!

[@fritziepisarski8681]

Bianca, try Pennsylvania. Taxes aren’t bad and their sales tax as well . No tax on clothing and material. Also they don’t tax your retirement income. New York is tax Central. . Yes, you can go upstate where the houses are cheaper but taxes are the same and don’t buy a corner house because your taxed on both streets. I have one and we were moving to Gettysburg (we’re Civil War re enactors ) when my husband got sick so we’re still on Long Island.

[@zbird10123]

Consider Michigan! My partner is from there, family still lives there. Detroit itself has a lot of cool history. It has some areas with higher taxes, some with lower. Not super close to New York, but overall the state's politics aren't awful. I got to visit for the first time over Thanksgiving; I truly fell in love!

[@snugglepuppydesign]

So excited for you! We moved last year from Washington State to Central Pennsylvania. Housing here is SO MUCH cheaper and lots of cool old houses! We picked a house that is a replica of the James Semple House of Colonial Williamsburg! 11 foot ceilings, chestnut floors, amazing details and SO CHEAP compared to the Seattle Area.

[@autumn7143]

You do a wonderful job. I’m glad things are good. Also, your ink is awesome. I love it for you. I have one butterfly and for me, that’s enough. Your body, your decorations. Same with your space. Thanks for sharing so much of your life with us.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Autumn ❤️

[@dallasmandy]

Yes, yes, and yes, please. To all of it

[@MsHedgehog]

It can be worth giving some of those drab renovated insides a closer look. Sometimes people have been going for the least effort approach to renovating and have just hidden all the nice old detailing. My parents renovated my grandfather's old (actual) farmhouse. It had been renovated in the 60-70's is my guess and there were particle and plaster board covering wooden ceilings, particle boards nailed to the solid wood interior doors to hide the pretty medaillons. Linoleum put over wooden floors etc. 🙀 Also I find your tattoos pretty, I am a bit jealous. Some people are just rude. and prefer their LIVES to be greige I guess 💖

[@karenlawler7846]

I live in london and my favourite historical walking tours company is Footprints of London - tends to be a mix of retired people and students, and they do really interesting and specific tours. It depends on timing when you're here, but there's a very cool underground london tour I've been wanting to do! And if it is still on when you come, there is an African Fashion exhibition at the V&A that is really brilliant.

[@ChatsWithChris]

It’s so exciting hearing you talking about your dreams.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Chris ❤️

[@redpandaerin]

If you were Canadian (Or looking to move here), I’d suggest looking for a house in my area. Saint John, NB, has a fair number of older houses since it is the oldest incorporated city in Canada. Wherever you look, I’m sure you’ll find the place of your dreams in just the right spot. And I’ll be here to watch you make it yours 😊

[@kamikazi811]

I just realized that in all the years that I have watched your channel, I just learned your name in this video. I love all your creativity, wish I had some of it. Good luck with the house search, hope you film some. I am a mortgage underwriter, even though the rates are higher, I still think it is a good time for a 1st time homebuyer. Check out a credit union for your mortgage loan, they tend to be more flexible and have lower rates than banks. Best of luck!

[@belindagritter1572]

The mini rant at the end made me laugh. All the best in 2023! You work very hard and I learn so much by watching you. I recommend your podcast to so many people. Looking forward to the fun to come in 2023.

[@dwarfwithafoamhammer_2278]

Lots of spooky Victorians in upstate New York (I think in the finger lakes region ish), but so happy that you’ve reached this point in your life!

[@alexipembrooke3510]

I look at tattoos as permanent brooches, and I love love LOVE brooches. Also, I would LOVE a live beading or patterning video! A few of my friends and I have a monthly stitch and bitch on FaceTime, so I would love to be embroidering and hanging out with you!!

[@esullivan765]

I'm so excited for you. I think it's great that creatives like yourself can make a living inspiring others. Re house -- consider Cleveland! You get all four seasons, property taxes are low, people are friendly, 7.5 hour drive to NYC, maybe you could get another side gig at Kent State School of Fashion, oh and there is a cat cafe in a trendy part of town!

[@lintilla2002ify]

Love your tattoos! I am lucky enough to live in a London suburb and I really ought to visit the city more often. I think years of commuting spoilt my enjoyment. Hope you have a fantastic visit 😀

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! Visit the city just for me! The Wallace Collection!!

[@kalieris]

I was finally able to buy a house a few years ago and one of the reasons was the USDA rural development loans program. Their website identifies eligible areas in each state, and you can check if a given house you’re looking at qualifies. I needed less of a down payment, and the rate was very good. “Rural” doesn’t necessarily mean remote and isolated, so there may be opportunities closer to a larger city that still qualify.

[@kate-emvintage]

Lots of luck with finding your perfect house this year. I hope you find a lovely home. If you fancy a meet up when you go to London do let me know!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Katie!

[@alncfmn]

Bianca! You ARE a fashion designer!

[@cheryllewman]

If you haven’t looked into it, Upstate NY is amazing. You can find some awesome old houses with original woodwork just a train ride away from the city.

[@adriannademadriguera4859]

new subscriber. you are amazing! may all your dreams come true! from a new fan in new york city.

[@WheezyCatLady]

I am so excited about this year for you! And I’m so looking forward to seeing the journey here on your channel 🙌

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@spottedstar1123]

I've used depop and poshmark for selling my clothes and enjoyed both. I like that poshmark makes it super easy to send offers back and forth and you have a bazillion spots for photos. However the way to send a private message isn't as intuitive as depop (you have to use the bundle feature). As a buyer I usually prefer depop because of cheaper shipping, the PM system, and I think it's just easier to search for things

[@JenniferElise]

I'm so excited for your house hunt journey and am here for ALL the decor!!! Happy 2023 friend!

[@rainfire632]

I will 100,000,000,000% watch house things videos of any and all variety from you. Please if you want to document and share anything in the whole process absolutely do it!!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! Will definitely be making videos through and about the house process ✨