I've heard a lot of horror stories from people renting their homes. We discovered ourselves facing down one such nightmare, both the tenants and the property manager being outlandishly bad. I've heard worse stories, to be sure, but not many. We are learning, again and again, to feel less attachment to our plans. Case in point, we pivoted and took the opportunity to remodel and put our home on the market. A 10-day visit turned quickly into nearly two months. We are more than a little worn out, but the end result is gorgeous! Big, big thanks to my Dad, Mike, for helping paint every interior square inch of the place. I also want to say thank you directly to our home for several great years and wish it godspeed as it attracts new owners who will love and cherish it.
Meanwhile, we enjoyed the company of friends, the edible delights of summer, and the return of our dog Koa to our daily embrace. Donna and Tracy took such good care of Koa while we were abroad, and she earned her keep as an occupational therapy dog at Donna's clinic. Our deep gratitude also goes out to Jan and David, as well as Norma, for housing and helpfulness in every aspect of our tumultuous transition. Our lives are truly blessed in knowing all of you.
A few highlights from the kitchen... Tracy showed me how to can fresh albacore tuna and bake zucchini bread (vegan and gluten free, mind you). And Danielle fell hard for heirloom tomatoes in all their varietal glory.
I was scarcely found with without a paintbrush or drill in hand, but the high point of my summer was kayak camping on the wild shore of Long Island (Willapa Bay, Washington) with friends Matt and Dan. Out on the mudflats at low tide we gathered oysters for grilling and clams for steaming. Around camp I snacked on salal and huckleberries. That evening, sated by the too-easy feast and contentedly watching the stars, we agreed that we would gather our people and return to Long Island in the event of any kind of apocalypse.
I also managed to put together a short camping trip in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. This turned out to be surprisingly challenging. Though the area is beautiful and unique, persistent fog and cold winds left everything damp and dripping, and the stomach situation I developed back in Turkey finally deteriorated to the point of needing immediate medical attention.
Parasite diagnosed and treated, Danielle and Koa and I retreated to the
Oregon Gardens for some sun and rest before resuming our work. Such are the rigors and risks of travel. But, looking back through this blog and our memories, the rewards of our travel -- the crazy stories, the friendships -- far, far exceed the costs.
