Final thoughts on the experience

As most of you know who have been following this blog, I set out to write about our experience housesitting in Italy. What motivated us? We wanted to live somewhere for a while, not just pass through -- something we do all too often in life. This was more adventure than vacation. Someone asked me if I'd learned anything, was the experience life altering. I learned that my husband is a good partner and that's a critical component in the experience. And it was a pleasant diversion from our normal life in Seattle. We also met some truly wonderful people. Having dogs to take care of was a bonus. (We miss you Jack.)

What led us to this adventure? Four years ago I signed up on a newish website that matches people who want a house and pet sitter with people who want the opportunity. Our busy lives prevented us from seriously signing up for an assignment until my husband semi-retired and suddenly we had time on our hands. More time than money actually. We thought this would be a good way to get out into the world.

We had a wonderful experience which was helped by the home owners who made sure we had everything we needed (a MAC, Internet access, Sky television with English translation, wood for the stove, neighbors and friends in the wings, and showed us the important places, such as the grocery store in Grosseto). It was well worth the cold we endured (we brought long underwear and wore it the entire time) to be able to live for a brief time in the most beautiful piece of countryside anywhere. We'll do it again to be sure.