Unexpected Vagabonding
When we set out on our Vagabond journey, we could never have imagined the current situation! Right now we were scheduled to be in Sicily, looking forward to tracing the steps of John's ancestors. Instead, we are in Haines City, Florida, renting a house from Nick in the UK via AirBnB.
Our transition the past week was a little rocky. We had reserved for the month of April and then the very next day Florida's governor decreed no vacation rentals for two weeks. Even though we met the exemption of being long-term and having made the reservation before the decree, upon arrival the security guard refused to issue us more than a day pass, which left us in a bit of a limbo. That issue is now resolved, and we're working with the owner to see how long we can extend our reservation, hopefully through the month of May. Like everyone else, making any plans beyond that is pretty futile, so we're experiencing our collective lesson in living in the moment!
Between our time in California with Emily and our arrival to Haines City, we spent 12 days with cousin Jim. We had fun together, with John and he reminiscing about Ciacchella cousin memories and Chris enjoying the opportunity to get to know the sweet soul that is our cousin.
On our last weekend, we had a really fun, carefree day. We listened to disco music all day, including bringing back those old disco dances in the pool. In the evening, the disco ball went on, and we switched to some good Motown. John and Jim talked about times of cousins dancing and pantomiming those great songs as children.
We are still healthy and have nothing to complain about. It's great to have a pool in which to exercise and a lanai to sit outside. Chris just says that had she known, she would have saved more jammy pants and t-shirts!
Our transition the past week was a little rocky. We had reserved for the month of April and then the very next day Florida's governor decreed no vacation rentals for two weeks. Even though we met the exemption of being long-term and having made the reservation before the decree, upon arrival the security guard refused to issue us more than a day pass, which left us in a bit of a limbo. That issue is now resolved, and we're working with the owner to see how long we can extend our reservation, hopefully through the month of May. Like everyone else, making any plans beyond that is pretty futile, so we're experiencing our collective lesson in living in the moment!
Between our time in California with Emily and our arrival to Haines City, we spent 12 days with cousin Jim. We had fun together, with John and he reminiscing about Ciacchella cousin memories and Chris enjoying the opportunity to get to know the sweet soul that is our cousin.
On our last weekend, we had a really fun, carefree day. We listened to disco music all day, including bringing back those old disco dances in the pool. In the evening, the disco ball went on, and we switched to some good Motown. John and Jim talked about times of cousins dancing and pantomiming those great songs as children.
We are still healthy and have nothing to complain about. It's great to have a pool in which to exercise and a lanai to sit outside. Chris just says that had she known, she would have saved more jammy pants and t-shirts!
Never have health, food, shelter, company (people, including one's self), arts, ideas, memories, laughter, tears, communication, and communications been so appreciated. And YOU are living the expat life (from yesterday's places, lifestyles, stuff, ideas, and habits). Great entries in the Book of V Vagabonding!
ReplyDeleteYour observations always make me smile, my friend!
DeleteI sure am glad you guys have come up with a good alternative plan, you can come and stay in my apartment in Michigan indefinitely it's empty and available. No restrictions and Corona free. I know you talked about coming this summer but you can come anytime and stay as long as you like. Love you both stay healthy
ReplyDeleteFeeling the love, my friend! I have your offer in my mind. Love you too!
DeleteIt is always a pleasure hearing of your adventures.You know how to remain optimistic and use the "lemons" for more than making lemonade. Stay safe and keep "Walking on Sunshine"
DeleteThank you sweet friend! XO
DeleteI found you and have read all your postings. it is wonderful seeing you so relaxed and enjoying the good life. This is your dream you are living even though you aren't in Sicily. Look forward to reading more.
ReplyDeleteThank you, hugs!
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