After 2 years, we're on the move

Well, this is a bummer.

Time for a new World Headquarters.

We’ve been here for two years. The owners are selling, so I’m scouting possible new locations.

Before I get into how much we’re going to miss this place, and the stress of the situation, let me tell you a little bit how we got here.

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Recall that in October 2023 as I approached my 65th birthday party, the property owner gave me 30 days’ notice of eviction after 18 years. We were shocked and devastated.

My neighbor Paul had taken particular interest in me and seemed to feel sorry for me. I’m not exactly Mr. Fix-it, and Paul is a bustle of fix-it activity. When the eviction came, we ended up renting a wonderful lakehouse from Paul and his wife, Jean.

And, wow, what a house. You’ve seen some of the photos. While writing this I’m sitting on what I call the porch — the screen room just a few feet from Big Lake Henderson. I spend hours each week in this room, reading, relaxing, meditating, writing, and enjoying alone time with my Creator.

Life thrived in this home. It’s ironic that Thursday’s blog and photo centered on the sheriff’s candidates meeting at my house last summer, and having conversations that would lead to a political and community unity the likes I’ve never before witnessed.

Can’t talk about the house without mentioning Buddy. He spent his six months lounging about the house, sleeping on the couch, or tucked at my feet under the desk while I worked.

After Buddy’s passing, I kept his crate and food dish right where he’d left it. Six months later, Bunny arrived. She took to the crate and Buddy’s beds right away, and eventually found her comfort spots in the house.

In the last few weeks, in particular, Bunny is right at home. When the summer storms started, she found comfort in the laundry room, which I dubbed Bunny’s Apartment. She now spends much of the day there, sound asleep.

She’s my biggest concern with this move. I see how important routine is for Bunny, and it’s killing me knowing I need to take her from this environment to a completely foreign one.

(Any experience on how to make that transition easier on Bunny, please pass it on. The “Bunny Apartment” concept came from a JWC participant.)

I had a great talk with Paul the other day. He and Jean have been extremely kind and generous to me. I’ll miss them as much as the house. They’re not bum-rushing me out the door; I have until Oct. 1, which means I really want our new home settled by Sept. 1.

We have a few locales in consideration, including one that seems to check all the boxes. Not on the water, but a beautiful spot with plenty of outdoor room for Bunny’s adventures.

(That said, if Great Uncle Fred on your mother’s side has that place up on the Withlacoochee he can’t get rid of, let me know…)

Moving is stressful as hell. I have an excuse if my blogs seem more disjointed (ha!) than usual in the next few weeks.

It’s the first time I’ve moved on my own in 20 years. And it’s the first time ever I’ve moved on my own with a pet. I’ll be 67 in October. I’m not the sharpest tool in the shed. Pretty much running on instinct and hoping it doesn’t blow up on me.

Bunny and I got spoiled living here. I’m so grateful God landed me in this beautiful home, a place where I get to start each day with the morning sky and a walk with my best friend.

What a beautiful Friday. Enjoy your home, Citrus County.

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