January 6, 2025

Jan 06, 2025

I'm in the last week of my time in Italy. It has been a wonderful experience and given me a lot to think about.  I am always soothed and gladdened by the scenery even when just riding up the hill on a bus.  There are plenty of towns that are not particularly petty—some that are mostly apartment loaded bedroom communities—but the old hill towns are just what one imagines from old travel posters.  And I love the regular ringing of the church bells. 

But this trip has given me a lot to think about.  It was long enough that while there is are never ending things to see and do, I also had time to just settle in with a daily work life (even if that was nine hours different!).  I had to take the bus to town to do any shopping or errands beyond what Cortona offered; I had to deal with trains—late ones and strikes; I had to deal with not having easy access to items (replacing a broken lamp shade took multiple trips and weeks); and then the general not knowing—holidays, store hours, different trash pick-ups, etc.  Many of the issues were just inconveniences that took time or would be resolved if I had a car and/or more money.  But life is filled with inconveniences, so are they enough to change my retirement plans?

I have to admit, I think some of them could, especially as I get older.  Do I want to be fighting the train schedule in winter when I’m 80?  Or the small hot water heater?  Or having to dry my laundry in the house? Many apartments here don’t have clothes dryers. 

I know the additional walking is good for me, and I do enjoy it here, but my feet do hurt.  And walking a lot isn’t an option is the old city centers—cars just can’t get everywhere, and parking is extremely limited. 

But the real dealbreaker is a dog.  I cannot see not having a dog again, and I also cannot see traveling with a dog.  I love big dogs, and I would not have a dog spend 36 hours in a crate to fly.  Whenever I see a dog here (and they are very dog friendly here), I smile.  They bring me joy in the same way the scenery brings me peace.  I am just a person who needs a dog.  It’s just that simple. 

So, what does that all add up to?  Probably not retiring to Italy.  But repeatedly visiting.  I don’t have to make any decision now, and I have the bank account here if I need to rent a place. 

It has been a good adventure; one I could not have ever done at 400 lbs.  I am so fortunate to have options, and while I wish no one was ever shamed or limited by one’s body, I know the physical pain I was in, and the difficulty a body of that size has in navigating travel.

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