House #2
As we continued to let ourselves be guided by a higher power through our trials and tribulations, serendipity struck again! A real estate agent, and friend, Maggie VanDamme, called us with news of a new listing that was an offer we may not be able to refuse. A house, within a 20-25 minute walk or 5 minute Moto ride to the beach, was being listed for what seemed to be a very low price.
After several bouts with serious mental anxiety, that caused us, and others to question our sanity, we bought another house (this one is about a mile downhill from the first house and therefore a mile closer to the beach). One overriding thought, while we agonized over this decision, was that, unlike the first house that was far from the beach (2 miles), this house was close enough to the main road to be easily accessible to public transportation, as well as having neighbors in close proximity to provide support, if necessary, That would be much more comfortable attractive to visitors. So this, we thought, could accommodate any family or friends better than we could at the first house, while also offering the opportunity to rent the property sporadically as we wanted or needed. Plus it meant we had a move-in ready home that meant we could move, with all of our critters, whenever we wanted. So, now, we were close enough to taste our goal to move to the Caribbean.
On 10/21/2017, the eagle landed. All 6 animals 2 humans, 4 giant rolling cases with basic household items arrived safely with us. No animal, vegetable or human was impounded by either government in the process. Estie did need to fly home 10/24 to finish dealing with storing U.S. household items until we can ship them here. She returned 10/28/17 and we began unofficial residence at that point. It will be a matter of several months before we can be approved for a long term residence visa. But for all practical purposes, our family now resides in Sosua, Republica Dominicana, effective 10/28/2017.
As I said, this house is a mile down the hill from our first house. It is close to the New Life Church on the map below. It will be ready to receive friends and relatives for those cold dreary winter months in PA. So make sure your passport is up-to-date and you are stocked up on sunscreen.