Winter 2004 Newsletter
|
When I'm weary and I can't sleep, |
| —Irving Berlin |
I've heard that there is a theory in quantum physics that everything in the world is speeding up. The technological advances come so fast that we can't keep up. The time we have to accomplish things seems to shrink. Even here in the relative tranquility of the North Coast, this theory seems to have some credence. So, this year my husband and I thought it was time to take a deep breath and do just what these lyrics imply: count your blessings.
In the midst of the best local real estate market in memory, we took two months and traveled to Alaska with our truck and 5th wheel, and our dogs Zoë and Gracie. We dipped our fingers in the Beaufort Sea/Arctic Ocean, saw the giant vegetables at the Alaska State Fair, watched the grizzlies feed on the salmon run, and had close encounters with a moose or two. We had been dreaming of this trip, and it was well worth waiting for; but, no matter where we go we are always happy to come home. There is, after all, "no place like home" — especially when home is this extraordinary place.
People often ask me, "What can I expect if I move to the North Coast?" For openers you can expect less noise and shorter lines; a surprising number of good restaurants and artistic performances; but, most of all you can expect to make good friends who value you for who you are not what you drive or where you live. These are blessings in short supply in many parts of the world, but usually found in abundance here.
Now it's Christmas again, and with so much to be thankful for, it seemed right to mark this Christmas by sharing some blessings. On December 5th, I invited friends to my home to package boxes of goodies for the soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. We did this through the auspices of a website called AnySoldier.com. These packages can be sent all year long — a piece of home is always in order for our men and women in service to the country.
As in years past, it has been a pleasure and yes, a blessing, to have been a part of the transition for so many new families who now call the Mendocino area and the Anderson Valley home. To all my past client/friends who are such a big part of my life — thank you! To those of you who write to me and stop by when you come to town, I treasure your visits.
May your blessings be many in 2005,
And may your Christmas be very, very merry.
Gio
December 2004