Before Mike and I lived in any new city, on any continent, we researched the area as best we could on the internet. We tried to find other expats who lived in the area so that we could ask them pointed questions about life in that city. We located grocery stores, bakeries, fresh markets, the local library, banks, and transit centers on a city map. If possible we also tried to locate information on crime statistics in a certain city.
Because we were heading back to Olympia, Washington, and we had only been away for seven years, we figured we knew enough about the area. Thus, we did no prior research. Before arriving we had planned to find something to rent in or near the downtown Olympia core.
Somehow, somewhere and without many people noticing, downtown Oly became a not-so-nice place to live. They even managed to turn my much-loved…
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Applecore 
Mike, sorry to hear about Olympia and I can see why you would have a change of heart. But I am glad you will be in Bham for while. Sue and I came to Bham in August to get our rental house ready to sell but decided it was such a great town we plan to be here a while. I’m taking some writing classes, hanging out at Village Books, Woods Coffee, etc. No regrets so far. Drop me a line. I still want to buy you a beer.
Hey, Tom – it’s good to know I can look forward to a friendly connection when we move north. I will connect with you once we have a place to call home. I believe we will have much to talk about. Thanks for your comments. 🙂 – Mike
You and Florence are still too far to see each other in person, but hope it all works out in your new place to live. So sorry that things changed and other setbacks have occurred. Mainly, hoping you are enjoying being ‘in person’ with your daughters and grandchildren, too! Please stay in touch… Hugs, Robin
Like when we were living in other countries, we manage to keep on the move. This time we are moving only 150 miles north. For some reason we were not meant to remain in Olympia. Finding housing in Bellingham will be a bit more challenging since it is a university town and demand is high, but all will work out in the long run.
During this transition to living domestically, I have not felt the need to blog as much, but I do continue to follow my favorite blogs, and I will stay connected with you via my comments. – Mike
Florence and Mike, Sorry that Olympia didn’t work out, but the last time we were in Bellingham we thought it was terrific. It’s been several years, but we both remember that it had a great feel. Wishing you all the best in your new home. ~Terri
It was disheartening to see and experience the decline of this once-attractive city, the town where I raised my children and where they graduated from school. Bellingham looks to be a city with a vision and a place that welcomes young and old alike. One huge benefit for me will be the opportunity to spend more time with my grandchildren. Finding a place to live is more challenging because many others have already discovered Bellingham’s appeal, and there is only a 1% vacancy rate for apartments. Nonetheless, I believe we will be sharing news of our new hometown before the end of the year. – Mike
Wow MIke, a 1% vacancy rate is a challenge! But it sounds like you and Florence must have some good leads. And being closer to your grandchildren has to be exciting. Wishing you good luck in your search. Can’t wait to see what you find. 🙂 All the best, Terri
I am one to keep checking back to see if you have posted something new, my friend! Take care and hope you have fun watching the Seattle Seahawks, but I will be rooting for my ‘roots’ of my family in New England, for the Patriots! Go both teams and hope they will have a fair and exciting game, Mike! I always appreciate all of your thoughtful comments, Mike! Take care!
Thank you, Robin. Perhaps one of these days I will return to putting my thoughts out for thoughtful readers such as you. Until then, I will be content to follow your blog along with a select few others and offer my comments on a regular basis. And here on the eve of Super Bowl XLIX I have only this to add — Go Seahawks! – Mike
We in Colorado are trying to figure out if there really is a lesser of two evils in today’s game 🙂
Considering both New England and Seattle put a beatdown on Denver this year and in the last Super Bowl, I guess it comes down to how many friends and relatives you side with (or against) by choosing a favorite. Sometimes it is most judicious to cheer for an exciting game, and hope the officials don’t make a game-changing call, which is difficult to do given the new pass interference rules this year.
Agreed Mike – like you say, hopefully it will be a good game, as opposed to last year… 😦