Get Out

Hi friends. 

When I last connected with you via CastletotheKeys, I had finished the thought process and actual move to sunny Florida. It’s been just over five years and I’ve learned quite a bit about myself and our new home.

So, how do I fit here in the south with my northern sensibility? Pretty well I think, having found great friends, good food and fun times. I’ve reconnected with cousins who live in the area. Dan and I bought a cute house in a lovely little city called Safety Harbor. We are just east of Clearwater and a short distance to the Tampa airport, allowing for easy travel to and from our home. Overall, we are pleased with our soft landing.

Along comes Covid. And we’re living here in Florida with, let’s face it, a governor who is not the brightest science-based thinker. Masked up and wary of grocery stores, friends and family soldiered on. In the midst of this Dan landed a good job in Clearwater, one that played to his core strength of customer service and conflict resolution. I had left my full-time job of 3-years after a reorganization. After initially looking for work I decided the safest place was at home, so reading book after book became my new pastime. We also adopted a really beat-up rescue Doberman who needed full-time attention and love, so win-win.

The government ponied up the first stimulus which we put to good use. Same with the second, a beautiful new front door. When the third arrived we discussed options and decided to channel Dan’s grandparents Ray and Alma, who believed that money should be given away when the sender can appreciate the joy of the recipient. Checks were sent to both of our boys.

Our oldest son and his wife have contemplated some new furniture – decisions yet to be made. Our youngest sent me a thank-you note and said he and his roommates were looking forward to a “coke and strippers” party. I think he meant Coca-Cola and chicken strips.

Fast forward. I get a call, “Mom, thanks so much for the stimulus money! I bought some Dogecoin at .05 and now it’s over .40! I’ve made thousands of dollars!” And the only thought I had was purely a northern (and Midwest) response – GET OUT! Take the money and RUN. What are you thinking? We are not a gambling family! Just GET OUT!

Now, I’m not saying that Southerners take more risks, buy hey, Florida man. There are published books and articles that back me up on this. No one in our family has ever been injured after saying “hey y’all, watch this.” I didn’t check myself at the border, but now I’ll be checking my reactions and reporting back to all y’all.

Stay safe. Much love,

Paula