Some Background

Pat and I have talked about leaving Toronto altogether, and leaving Canada for winters, for some time. We have come to enjoy our place at Kemble Ontario ("The View") so much that it seems silly to have 2 homes with 2 sets of furnishings, and commute between them. So a plan took shape to have us change everything in one swoop.



After an award-winning (literally!) year, Pat wrote a resignation letter and her last day at Seneca College is officially Dec. 31 but really Dec. 19. Many students, staff, and colleagues were shocked and saddened that she would leave at the peak of her career and talents. Many tributes, lunches, and heartfelt messages have been pouring in.



In the meantime, I put my apartment of 21 years (Pat's for 13) up for rent and was lucky to get a young couple who seem to suit the neighbourhood and the house. Mark and Niamh Connolly move in on Dec. 14. I move up to Kemble.



We have been moving our stuff away from Toronto since September. It seemed early at the time, but we have needed all the weeks and all the trips in our Chevy van. And the place has been upgraded with new paint, wood varnish, carpet, dishwasher, baseboard heat, lighting, trim, etc etc. It looks better than ever.



But a week after we settle in to Kemble, we will be leaving Canada to drive to Punta Sam Mexico for the winter. I have been going to that area since 1979 and even though it has been under seige by change it is still mostly Mexican, with few English speakers and no TV or phone in our little rented apartment. Right on the beach across the channel from my beloved Isla Mujeres.



It will be about 6 or 7 days to drive there, but the complication is we're taking our two 14-year old cats. They have had shots, exams, Spanish lessons, and practice being in the van for up to 7 hours so far. We think they will do fine.



The last month has been hectic and frustrating with so many address changes, insurance arrangements, bill payments, service disconnections, etc etc. I have lost as much weight doing all this as I do in a month of physical labour at Kemble.



So soon we are off on our excellent adventure, hoping we have covered all eventualities and praying to our angels for a safe drive and another great trip.