Yesterday, Joe and I officially landed in San Antonio, Mexico, beginning an exciting new chapter in our lives. But before we left, we were overwhelmed with love and support. The past few weeks were a whirlwind of hugs, laughter, and heartfelt conversations—each one reminding us just how lucky we are to have such incredible people in our lives. Celebrating in Asheville, Travelers Rest & Beyond Joe and I kicked things off with a farewell party in Asheville, surrounded by friends who have shared so many memories with him over the years. Kathryn and I had our own send-off in the form of a camping trip at Lazy J, complete with one last tubing adventure—floating down the river and soaking in the beauty of the mountains one more time.  We also gathered with friends at The Community Tap in Travelers Rest, another chance to share a drink, swap stories, and celebrate all the years we’ve spent together here. (Thanks and love to Grey Thompson for the great photos!!!) On top of those bigger get-togethers, there were countless smaller goodbyes sprinkled throughout. Feeling the Love Every hug, every kind word, and every smile made us feel deeply loved and appreciated, reminding us how much we will be missed. Many of my closest friends have been in my life for decades and leaving them behind was not easy. These friendships are a part of my foundation, and I will hold onto them always. While moving away from so many dear friends is bittersweet, we’re beyond excited for this next chapter. Mexico promises new adventures, new friendships, and fresh experiences, but our hearts will always be tied to the people and places we’ve left behind. We hope our paths will cross again soon—whether back in the States, somewhere along our travels, or here in our new home. Here’s to new beginnings and to the friendships that last a lifetime.

A North Fork Getaway: Beaches, Vineyards & Quality Time with My Daughter Surae and I were lucky enough to score a pet-sitting opportunity in the North Fork area of Long Island—a peaceful, scenic stretch of New York that was completely new to me. It turned out to be the perfect way to soak up the last bit of summer, enjoy some beach time, explore a new part of the country, and most importantly, spend uninterrupted time with Surae before she heads off to college this August. Discovering the North Fork of Long Island I had only a vague idea of what to expect—just that it was on the opposite end of Long Island from the Hamptons. What we discovered was a place full of charm, peace, and natural beauty. The North Fork is lined with scenic coastline, abundant bunny rabbits and deer, dotted with vineyards, and bursting with local farmstands, many running on the honor system. You’ll find everything from fresh oysters and goat cheese to cut-your-own lavendar. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down and breathe a little deeper. Our house sat right on Peconic Bay, with peaceful views of the water—truly a serene and grounding place to stay. Exploring the Local Scene: Wine, Farms & Goat Yoga During the week, we visited several local vineyards and wineries (the region is known for them!), and stopped by farmstands where we got to visit with goats and other animals. A standout activity was goat yoga at Catapano Dairy Farm—a fun, lighthearted experience that had us laughing as baby goats hopped around mid-pose. We were caring for two lovable pups, Sergeant and Maverick, who were so much fun to get to know and spend time with. Ferry Adventures to Shelter Island and Sag Harbor One of the coolest parts of our trip was taking a double ferry ride—first from the North Fork to Shelter Island, where we visited the independent bookstore, Black Cat Books and then from Shelter Island over to Sag Harbor, located in the Hamptons. Sag Harbor has a wonderfully walkable downtown filled with boutiques, art galleries, and great restaurants. Driving the car onto the ferry and landing in an entirely different atmosphere was a truly unique experience! Nature Encounters: Wildlife Refuge & Mystic, Connecticut We also visited the Elizabeth A. Morton National Wildlife Refuge, a peaceful natural spot where chipmunks and wild turkeys roam freely. We wondered why the chipmunks seemed so fearless until someone gave us their leftover seeds and we realized what those chipmunks were after! Another highlight was a day trip by ferry to Mystic, Connecticut. There, we visited the Mystic Aquarium, where we saw beluga whales and playful sea lions. Celebrating Pride in Greenport One special surprise during our stay was attending the Gay Pride Parade in Greenport, a lively and inclusive event full of colorful floats, great energy, and community spirit. It added another layer of joy to an already amazing week. Our week in North Fork, Long Island was a time to connect, relax, and explore the beauty of a region that feels like a hidden gem. From vineyards and goat yoga to beaches and wildlife—and of course, caring for two sweet pups—it was a perfect summer sendoff before college. Goodale Farms Goodale Farms Goodale Farms Goodale Farms Ferry to Sag Harbor Sag Harbor, NY Elizabeth Morton National Wildlife Refuge Elizabeth Morton National Wildlife Refuge Elizabeth Morton National Wildlife Refuge Elizabeth Morton National Wildlife Refuge Mystic Aquarium Mystic Aquarium Goat Yoga at Catapano Farms Oysters in North Fork Gay Pride in Greenport Gay Pride in Greenport Gay Pride in Greenport https://youtube.com/shorts/gFQu3G79x5Yhttps://youtube.com/shorts/GZfTD-gqlVE

A Nature-Filled Getaway to Fernandina Beach & Amelia Island, Florida We recently spent a beautiful week in Fernandina Beach, located on Amelia Island off Florida’s northeast coast. This charming barrier island is known for its pristine beaches, rich wildlife, and laid-back Southern hospitality—and we got to enjoy it all while housesitting two adorable pets: Amigo, the sweetest dog rescued from Mexico, and Adeline, the queenly cat who kept us company outside. Live Music & Laid-Back Vibes in Downtown Amelia Island One of our favorite evenings was spent at the Green Turtle Tavern in downtown Amelia Island. This local hangout has super chill vibes, a shady outdoor patio, and a lineup of talented singer-songwriters. It was the perfect spot to unwind with a drink and great live music. While looking for more tunes, we lucked out and stumbled upon the Jacksonville Jazz Festival—just a short drive from Amelia Island. We were blown away by performances from Tank and the Bangas, Trombone Shorty, and Janelle Monáe. The energy was electric, and the crowd was as awesome as the music. Paddling with Manatees and Spoonbills We spent a lot of time on the water and it was magical. Paddleboarding on Lofton Creek and Egans Creek was one of the highlights of our trip. We saw alligators, turtles, herons, and even a manatee—but the biggest thrill was spotting a group of roseate spoonbills, their pink feathers glowing like flamingos in the Florida sun. Seeing these elegant birds in the wild was unforgettable. Hiking Trails and Wildlife Galore For nature lovers, Egan’s Creek Greenway is a must. This lush trail system winds through marshes and meadows and offered us even more wildlife sightings—more gators, wading birds, and peaceful views all around. It’s a serene escape right near the heart of the island. We also ventured south to Big Talbot Island State Park and hiked to two of the most photogenic spots in the region: Black Rock Beach – Known for its dark, almost volcanic-looking shoreline. Boneyard Beach – A hauntingly beautiful stretch of coast scattered with sun-bleached driftwood trees. On Little Talbot Island, we spent time relaxing on the beach and were lucky enough to spot a gopher tortoise making its way through the sand—a rare and special sight. A Week of Wildlife, Music, and Sweet Companionship Our trip was packed with unforgettable moments—from the music and the wildlife to the trails and the beaches. But what made the experience even more special was sharing it with Amigo and Adeline, two loving pets who made our house sit feel like home. We left Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island feeling recharged, inspired, and ready to return someday soon. Tank and the Bangas Jacksonville Jazz Fest Janelle Monae Jacksonville Jazz Fest Lofton Creek Paddling Egan’s Creek Egan’s Creek Roseate Spoonbill Egan’s Creek Roseate Spoonbill Green Turtle Bar Black Rock Beach Black Rock Beach Black Rock Beach Boneyard Beach Boneyard Beach Boneyard Beach Black Rock Beach Boneyard Beach Gopher Tortoise Boneyard Beach Boneyard Beach Fernandina Beach Egan’s Creek Greenway Egan’s Creek Greenway Fernandina Beach

Our Four Petsits in NYC (October 2023 – November 2024) Our first housesit in New York City was completely unexpected. It came about as a last-minute pivot from a canceled sit—and suddenly, we found ourselves in the heart of the West Village. That stay ended up bringing us one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences: attending the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, something that had lived on my bucket list for years. Since then, we’ve completed four different house sits across NYC, and each one has offered its own flavor of the city, along with unforgettable adventures. NYC House Sits: Living Like Locals House-sitting has given us the chance to truly live in New York City, experiencing its neighborhoods like locals rather than tourists. Each sit has introduced us to new communities—and new furry friends: Miso & Logan – Two sweet cats in the West Village (our first NYC sit). Penny – A gentle, loving cat in Harlem. Stevie Jackson – A playful tuxedo cat in Brooklyn. Millie – An adorable French Bulldog in DUMBO. We used TrustedHousesitters for all of these sits—it’s been a game-changer for our slow travel lifestyle. If you’re curious about pet sitting or want to explore cities without breaking the bank, I highly recommend checking them out. Iconic NYC Moments Being in NYC for several months allowed us to slow down and soak up everything from the everyday to the extraordinary. Some of our most unforgettable moments include: Getting Engaged in Central Park – Truly magical. Walking Across the Brooklyn Bridge – A must-do, with skyline views that never get old. Visiting Coney Island – Complete with a Cyclone ride and a classic Nathan’s hot dog. Exploring the NYC Subway – Including a fascinating visit to the New York Transit Museum. People Watching – The fashion, the characters, the energy—nowhere does it better. Entertainment, Arts & Culture New York’s cultural scene is world-famous, and we had the time to dive deep: Broadway & Off-Broadway Shows – We scored tickets to all of these via rush or digital lottery (see how here) and saw incredible shows like: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Hadestown Kimberly Akimbo Little Shop of Horrors Maybe Happy Ending Teeth The Hills of California The Lion King Broadway Karaoke at Marie’s Crisis Cafe – Singing show tunes with theater lovers in a historic piano bar is just as fun as it sounds. The Daily Show Taping – Thanks to 1iota, we got free tickets and a behind-the-scenes look at live TV and political satire. Comedy Shows – Always an adventure; some hits, some misses, but never boring. Live Music – We caught concerts in some of the city’s most beautiful old theaters—nothing beats great acoustics and classic architecture. Museums & Galleries – From the MET and MoMA to hidden gems in Brooklyn and the Lower East Side, there’s always something new to discover. The Food Scene Eating our way through the city was a joy all on its own: Chinatown Favorites – Soup dumplings and hand-pulled noodles became staples. L’Industrie Pizza – Legitimately some of the best pizza we’ve ever had. Xi’an Famous Foods – Spicy lamb noodles that still haunt our dreams (in a good way). Late-Night Eats & Street Food – Post-show snacks became part of the routine. So much food, so little time! House-sitting gave us a different kind of New York experience—one filled with slower mornings, neighborhood strolls, and the chance to return to our favorite coffee shops, parks, and pet friends again and again. We didn’t just visit the city—we got to live in it, and we’ll definitely be back. If you’re considering a long-term stay in NYC or just looking to travel more intentionally, we can’t recommend house sitting enough. Whether you’re caring for a cat in Brooklyn or a Frenchie in DUMBO, it’s a one-of-a-kind way to explore the city that never sleeps. New York City Thai Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade High Line NYC High Line NYC High Line NYC Liz Phair Kings Kings Theatre Chinatown NYC NYC Protest Daily Show NYC LOS TACOS No.1 Harry Potter and the Cursed Stone Hadestown NYC Statue of Liberty Central Park Central Park Ethiopian Food NYC Shrine NYC NYC Subway Marie’s Crisis Cafe Central Park Picasso NYC Street Art NYC Brooklyn Bridge Coney Island Hot Dog Coney Island Xi’an Famous Foods NYC Frenchie Moulin Rouge The House of Wax bar Brooklyn Bridge New York Transit Museum New York Transit Museum Maybe Happy Ending NYC Broadway Shows NYC Street Singer Brooklyn Bridge Museum at Eldridge Street NYC MLK Mural

New Orleans: Halloween & Day of the Dead Housesitting in the Garden District In November 2024, our housesitting journey brought us to New Orleans—right in time for Halloween and Day of the Dead. We were set to care for a potbellied pig named Patches in the historic Garden District, but sadly, Patches passed away just before our arrival. The homeowners, gracious and kind, still invited us to stay and care for their home and plants. We gratefully accepted, and what followed was an unforgettable experience in one of our favorite cities. Halloween on Frenchmen StreetNew Orleans doesn’t just celebrate Halloween—it lives it. Frenchmen Street turned into a carnival of costumed revelers, street performers, and a mix of the magical and macabre. It was the perfect spot to witness New Orleans’ unmatched spirit. On Day of the Dead, we experienced a powerful candlelit parade honoring ancestors, with music, face paint, and a reverence that filled the air with something truly special. Music, Food & ArtNew Orleans is, hands down, my favorite city in the country. Its blend of bold flavors, endless live music, eclectic locals, impromptu parades, and layered history keeps calling us back. Live Music Highlights:🎶 Galactic at Tipitina’s – Funk, soul, and big energy in one of the city’s most iconic venues.🎶 Ragtime Jazz at The Spotted Cat – Always a vibe and a must-do when we’re in town.🎶 Bonnie Raitt at The Saenger Theater – The venue’s beauty alone is worth a visit, and Bonnie’s voice filled every inch of it. Food Highlights:🦪 Chargrilled oysters at Acme Oyster House – Smoky, garlicky perfection.🥣 Gumbo with grilled cheese at Heard Dat Kitchen – A flavor combo we didn’t know we needed.🍝 Italian at Adolfo’s – Hidden above Frenchmen Street with cozy vibes and mouthwatering pasta. First-Time Experiences:🖼️ We finally visited the New Orleans Museum of Art and its adjacent Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden—both of which were inspiring and peaceful.🏡 We also explored the Longue Vue House and Gardens, a beautifully preserved estate filled with lush greenery and Southern charm. At the Presbytère Museum, we took in a vivid and moving exhibit on Mardi Gras Indian culture. The craftsmanship, history, and pride behind the costumes left us in awe. Treme Gumbo Fest, We Are One Second Line & Election BluesOur trip concluded with the soulful Treme Gumbo Festival, featuring the legendary Treme Brass Band. We were lucky to catch the We Are One Second Line parade too—there’s nothing like stepping into a second line in New Orleans. It’s not something you describe. It’s something you feel. The only downside? The presidential election results came in during our stay. It was a heavy emotional hit—but if there’s a city that knows how to channel pain into joy, it’s this one. Despite the heartbreak, our time in New Orleans was a beautiful blend of culture, celebration, and soul. We left with full hearts and even more appreciation for the city’s spirit.   New Orleans Acme Oysters Frenchmen St Frenchmen St Frenchmen St Frenchmen St Garden District Galactic Tipitinas Day of the Dead Day of the Dead Day of the Dead Longue Vue House & Gardens Heard Dat Spotted Cat Adolfos New Orleans Museum of Art New Orleans Museum of Art Sydney and Wanda Beshoff Sculpture Garden Sydney and Wanda Beshoff Sculpture Garden Sydney and Wanda Beshoff Sculpture Garden Sydney and Wanda Beshoff Sculpture Garden Saenger Theater Saenger Theater Saenger Theater Presbytère Museum Presbytère Museum New Orleans Treme Brass Band Treme Gumbo Fest Happy Birthday! https://youtu.be/p3ykLEl33UIhttps://youtube.com/shorts/S7fTX1zXJuw

Honeymoon in Puerto Rico Our honeymoon in Puerto Rico was everything we dreamed of—relaxing, adventurous, and filled with stunning landscapes, incredible food, and friendly people. We split our time between the east and west coasts, soaking up the best of both worlds. Luquillo: Quiet Beaches & Rainforest AdventuresWe started in Luquillo, where the water was unbelievably blue, and the beaches were nearly empty. It was peaceful and slow-paced—the ideal way to ease into our trip. One night, we took a bioluminescent kayak tour through the mangroves. Even though the full moon dimmed the glow, paddling through the quiet water under a sky full of stars was still magical. We also drove through El Yunque National Forest, catching misty mountain views and waterfalls. While some parts of the park were still closed due to past hurricane damage, the scenery was breathtaking. The next day, we got a little muddy with a four-wheel drive tour through the rainforest—bumpy, wild, and absolutely worth it. West Coast Road Trip: Cliffs, Caves & Surf VibesNext, we headed west, stopping at Cueva del Indio, where dramatic rock formations meet crashing Atlantic waves. The trail to the cave looked a bit sketchy, so we stuck to the cliffside—and the views alone were stunning. Then it was off to Rincón, a chill surf town famous for its sunsets and relaxed energy. One of our favorite spots was Crash Boat Beach, a vibrant place where locals gather with music, food, and plenty of beach fun. We had brunch at The English Rose—delicious food and panoramic views made it a must-visit. We stayed at Casa Islena, a small inn steps from the water. It was a gorgeous spot, though the early morning brunch crowd made it tough to sleep in. Waterfalls & Final SunsetsBefore heading back east, we stopped at the San Sensation Waterfalls, tucked deep in the lush forest. A short, easy hike brought us to a beautiful swimming hole—cool, refreshing, and the perfect end to our adventure. Puerto Rico offered us quiet beaches, tropical forest adventures, jaw-dropping sunsets, and mouthwatering food and drinks—all without breaking the bank. Whether we were kayaking under the stars, off-roading through the jungle, or simply sipping rum cocktails by the sea, this was the perfect way to kick off our next chapter. We highly recommend visiting this beautiful, magical island.     Luquillo El Yunque El Yunque Luquillo Luquillo Cueva del Indio Cueva del Indio Cueva del Indio Rincon Casa Islena Casa Islena Rincon Crash Boat Beach Crash Boat Beach Mofongo Cascada Gozalandia Cascada Gozalandia