We are learning to let go.
Some of this is easy. We are giving a lot of things away to good friends. We have always tried to be proactive and stay stocked up in case we get stuck up here on top of our ridge line for one reason or another. In lots of cases, we did a lot more than we needed to…
Some things are more difficult. They connect to our image of our ‘self.’ Like my husband’s gun collection, the tools we’ve worked with for years in our shop, making our yard critters, mailbox decorations, etc. For me, closing down my Etsy shop will be the end of an era, and a piece of my identity. I have found, though, that when we get settled in Thailand, there are groups that get together to make art! I’ll be exposed to new people, new techniques, and maybe open up a whole new chapter on my art, too.
My friend Shelia gave me some good advice. She said it helped her to save some treasured things that mean home or comfort so that you in effect carry your home with you wherever you go. I have a really small, soft, teddy bear that has had a place on the shelf to my right for some 37 years as I type and work at my computer. He will go in my bag to indicate home and bring me comfort if things feel strange. My blog – and being able to get back to it after the move – will be my other treasure. Our son has promised to save our data from our current computers and build each of us a laptop as soon as possible so that I’ll be able to get back to you. He knows how important this is to me, and I’ve promised myself not to bug him overmuch about it, but I assure you this will happen just as soon as we can make it happen. (We do need to find a place to live and get settled a bit first).
The hardest thing for us will be our animals. I called our vet, who has cared for our animals and us for as long as I can remember. I explained our situation and asked him if he was in a position to help re-home them. We want them to have adopted families who will treasure them as we have, and give them the best possible life. He agreed, and I sent him pictures of Amber and Jet (aka as Monster Cat.) I also told him we have extra food, toys, and a cat tower that will go with them.
Thankfully, we’ll be able to keep up with friends and family via our phones. We will need some type of SIM card to transition from here to Thailand, but that shouldn’t be a big deal. I’ll be able to receive and send gmail, messages, etc.
We are busily handling lots and lots of details each day. Trying to get our belongings down to one suitcase and one backpack each will be quite the challenge. Our son has promised to guide us, and I’m relieved we’ll be handling this journal into our future together.
creativeartworksblog 
Wow! You’re moving to Thailand? I must have missed a few posts, I’ll go back and see. In a way that sounds exciting, even though it’s far. It sounds like you’ll be with your son so that’s great! Can’t wait to hear more about Thailand after you get there.
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We’ll be out of pocket for a bit once we leave, but I’ll be back with a laptop our son fixes for me asap.
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It does sound bitter sweet. I recall stories my parents told me about how they felt when they immigrated to the US from Italy. Friends left behind, favorite places to be visited no more. But, they loved their new country and had no regrets.
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We will have our regrets. We have loved our life and the people here, but the future looks perfect for us as we age and our needs change.
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Aww, love that my little comment helped in some way. I just know this is going to be such a positive (yet big!) transition for you and your husband, Linda. Been there done that (now, umpteen times).
I actually was thinking of you last night and again, considering the final Etsy order from your shop. I gotta act fast, I know!
I will order tonight.
Last night I read up on the Thailand visa process just to get an inkling of what’s going to go on.
I totally forgot about Amber and Jet!! I am soo glad they will get rehomed and your longtime vet will help with that! Whew!
Well, I didn’t mean to go off the rails about the auctioneer (from our experience), I just wanted to make sure they didn’t get your hopes up. Then again, maybe that’s what one needs to do (set high hopes but be okay with whatever that outcome is). Breathing into that.
Love that your son will get you set up with a laptop once you’re settled a bit. You are sooo right! This blogging is a lifesaver. Hugs!!
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I’m so happy the owl will have a home with you, and the ‘no rain, no flowers’ piece is one of my long time favorites. They’ll be on their way to you today, USPS Priority Mail. I’ll send you a tracking number as soon as I have one. Thanks again, Sheila.
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I wanted more, but I know you understand. The owl has been on my mind since I first saw it. And yes, I thought the ‘no rain, no flowers’ appropriate to remember you by. I know the time is ticking by fast, and you have much to do. I will be following you on your journey, Linda! Much love!!
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Much love to you, too Sheila. The package may not be mailed until tomorrow (plans are changing around here, but it will be no later than tomorrow. I’ll send you the tracking number.
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No worries at all and no rush. You know I understand. Hugs!!
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shipped to you today. You should get on the 10th. 9505 5114 3842 5066 4949 39
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Oh, that was FAST, Linda. Aww, you always exceed my expectations (though I really don’t have expectations… hehe). You ALWAYS inspire me. Sweet!
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Thanks go to our son. :O)
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Love him.
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He’s a keeper, all right.
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Very good you reached the Thailand. You come to near me, Linda. It good l ike you’ll be with your son. How you doing both of you?
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We will leave soon after we receive our passports. I’m not looking forward to the long trip, but am excited to start a new life there.
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Thank you so much! 🙏
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