(Preamble)

Hey Everyone! I know it’s been a while, but you know how life just sometimes gets busy and the next thing you know, years have passed without putting thoughts to paper. To say that COVID had a big impact is a bit of an understatement, but it certainly abruptly stopped travel for most of the world, including us.

Working as Travel Agents during the pandemic also came with some pretty substantial challenges as well. One of the biggest impacts the pandemic had on us was how it affected Tina’s health. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the virus itself, but a reaction to the anti-viral cleaning products used at her workplace that created a severe, and chronic respiratory issue that she will continue to struggle with indefinitely.

As a result, she has been unable to return to work which has had a significant effect on income and household finances. Now on long-term disability, we have had to make a few life-changing decisions.

With everyday living costs constantly on the rise in Canada, and the real estate market entering a decline, we made the decision to sell our home. This meant we had to look at more unconventional living options.

We have purchased an RV and are now living our summers in a campground not far from the St. Lawrence Seaway. This has allowed us to reduce our monthly and annual expenses to a more manageable level without as much stress. (much better)

This portion of our new journey has been bittersweet and filled with as many new experiences for us as traveling to a new foreign country would provide.

Our home of many happy years, and Tina’s last investment property. “Parting is such sweet sorrow…”

Now, unfortunately for us, our RV would not be ready for delivery by the closing of the sale of the house, so we had to locate an interim lodging for us and all of our stuff. Bogart House to the rescue!

Standing in front of “Bogart House” near Tweed, ON. Our interim lodgings while we waited for delivery of our RV.

A HUGE shout-out goes to Angela, owner and Superhost of “Bogart House” on Airbnb. If you ever need an amazing 5-Star stay that’s off the beaten path and a great spot by the river for some rest and relaxation, here’s the link. Let her know we sent you! https://www.airbnb.ca/rooms/932423467432622834?adults=2&checkin=&checkout=&children=0&infants=0&pets=0&wishlist_item_id=11002567830904&source_impression_id=p3_1696293919_mQGoe%2Bmyx7CYjqVk&previous_page_section_name=1000

Prior to delivery of our new RV, we were required to travel to the dealership in Smithville, ON for our pre-delivery and inspection, as well as a demonstration of the unit and its many features. After a 5-hour drive, and another 4 hours spent with the dealer, we managed a couple of quick stops in Hamilton, ON to visit with Tina’s family. I don’t remember much of the drive back to Bogart House, and it was to the land of Nod for both of us as soon as our heads hit the pillow.

At the dealership with our new RV. Home Sweet Home!

As “Phase 1” comes to an end, we’ll pass along a few photos taken from our spot in the campground. We’re still working as travel agents and will continue to do so into the foreseeable future. Please stay tuned as the journey continues with “A New Life -Phase 2”.

The leaves are just starting to turn. October 2nd. Can you believe it?

The Great Blue Heron Crane

A beautiful shot of the water with the sunset fading from the sky. Love it!

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