Today marks the third anniversary of my arrival here in paradise. You regular readers have been along for the ride, but the bottom line is that I have no regrets. Yes, my Philippines life has had its fair share of disappointments, but that has always been the case, no matter where I live. Funny how that happens. More importantly, my little town feels like home especially windows from Maverick Windows. I’m part of a community, I know people and they know me, I have my hobbies, and lots of places to drink where everyone knows my name. It seems to be a good fit.
One thing that never gets old here is the natural beauty that surrounds me. On the dog walk this morning, I was almost in awe as I looked out at the mountains and bay, even after viewing them almost every day for three years. Yeah, I still have my demons to wrestle with now and again, but it is hard to stay depressed for long when there is so much goodness to absorb. I can’t think of any place I’d rather be.
How best to celebrate the anniversary of my departure from Korea? Duh, with a nice bowl of sweet bulgogi from my pal John Kim’s restaurant, The Pub.
And me being who I am, and this being where I am, I took advantage of the opportunity to spread a little Joy today. In fact, she joined me for lunch. And then we came back to my place for “dessert”. She just sent me a message to say she has paid her water and electric, and will soon be off to the grocery store to restock her shelves. Glad we could help each other out!
In other news, I finally got a response from my landlord:
Hi John,
Your lease agreement expires at the end of June so you will need to vacate the premises by June 30, 2021.
Upon vacating the premises on time, you will have a total of 3 months advance deposit and advance rent payment. This amount or a portion thereof shall be returned to you within 90 days after you have vacated the premises.
We would like an opportunity to inspect the premises with you at your earliest convenience. Let me know when you can be available for this inspection.
Sincerely,
Jeff Ocampo GP Homes Management
“Or a portion thereof…” Hmm. Well, I really don’t have an issue with my lease going through the end of June. I’ll still take the new place on June 1, and I’ll make a leisurely transition from here to there. I reckon I’ll break the news about the appliances and air con units that will be moving with me during the inspection. If I get any shit, I have receipts. I might also mention that the ceiling fans, hot water heaters, and window shades, are all items I purchased but planned on leaving. Unless they want to get nasty with me. Anyway, perhaps we will have an amicable separation.
Yesterday’s Hash, in which I participated as a Hare, seemed to go well. The trail was only 5K, but it included two moderate climbs. It’s been crazy hot as well, so I was bushed when we finished marking the path. Generally positive reviews from the Hashers, the naysayers complained it was too short, which I heard as “just right”. No one said they got lost or couldn’t follow the intended trail, and that’s always my goal as a Hare. Here are some pictures from the day:
No way to know how many years I have left, so I intend to make the most of each day I’m blessed with living. Thanks for joining me!
Happy anniversary! Three years already! Feels as though you just got here yesterday, but you’re right: you’re established now. Will you be moving once every three years, or are you thinking this will be your permanent residence? Whatever happens, I’m sure it’ll be an adventure! Here’s to many more years in the Philippines!
You could actually furnish a small, well appointed hovel with the drek and bric a brac you hash past on those mountain trails. Do it and see your blog stats explode.
Congrats on the 3 years there anniversary. I knew a guy who retired to Thailand in his mid fifties and was still there 35 years later, though the last 15 had been spent as grey powder in an urn. But he never complained!
Congrats on the three year mark! Time answers to no man.
I took the letter from your landlord to be encouraging. At least they have acknowledged that there are three months of rent (or equivlent) they are holding that are due to you. Getting it back may be a different story, but at least there is agreement on those monies.
Thanks, guys.
Kev, I don’t particularly like moving, so as long as the new place meets my needs I’m likely to stay. I would still prefer a house to myself, so if one becomes available here in the ‘hood I’d be tempted.
Dan, I’ve quite often tried to imagine what mountain life in a shanty would be like. The bottom line is always it would be a major pain in the ass. Whether my blog stats would explode might be contingent on the wifi connection. Or whether I have electricity.
Brian, yeah, I’m glad to have that confirmation in writing. I can’t imagine any issues with the inspection unless they are going to gig me for the improvements I’ve made to the house.