Enough talk about publishing and promoting Plunge and spending too much money every month… What has been going on with us, in our private lives, the last few months?
Well, I haven’t really touched on how we arrived in Massachusetts, except for the road trip, and our feelings and activities since then. If you are a blog reader only interested in our alternative lifestyle and adventures, this is a good post to skip, as it is more geared towards updating our friends and family members – like in the old days on our sailboat Irie. ????
(As always, hover over the photos or click on them to read the captions.)
Before we cleaned and sold Zesty and hopped in our crappy rental car, we managed to meet up quickly with artist Jon and author Gail, whom we met in Baja California, Mexico. In Yuma, Arizona, they introduced us to hospitable friends of theirs and we had a lovely evening together.
Another highlight was to finally be reunited with sailing circumnavigators and good friends made in the South Pacific: Lisa Dorenfest and her Captain, Fabio. This picnic get-together happened in a park in Tucson, Arizona. For anyone following Lisa’s wonderful blog, One Ocean At A Time (which contains her inviting writing and incredible photos), the couple is doing well, despite the crazy heat, taking a break from their boat to replenish the cruising kitty.
Then, we cleaned and prepped Zesty, sold our van, and jumped in our crappy rental car. Busy times! We saw some cute creatures one night of “stealth camping” in Tucson as well.
We are still here
Neither Mark nor I was looking forward to returning east as our hearts belong out west. But we had a few things to do in Massachusetts: health check-ups, helping my aging (and overwhelmed) parents-in-law, Covid vaccinations, and changing gears from our camper van to a truck camper. The moods weren’t optimal during that road trip and since then. For a few reasons. That being said, we arrived in Newburyport late on April 9th and estimated to be here two or three months. Maximum.
Unfortunately, the aftermath of the pandemic is causing us havoc. More about that another time. It didn’t work out for our house saga in Mexico, but I am – again – hoping for a happy ending before I elaborate on the (failing) pick-up truck search. We will see…
Mark
Mark had a tooth ache during our five-day drive across the country early April. He thought he could make his scheduled appointment about ten days later. He couldn’t. The pain became excruciating after his dentist saw him quicker in an attempt to refill a cavity. She told him he might have a hairline crack. If so, the molar at the bottom back would have to get removed. He handled the pain for a couple of days until it became an emergency over the weekend. During a nighttime phone call, the dentist told Mark he needed to go to an oral surgeon to get the tooth removed.
Long story short, the dentist couldn’t find a surgeon (as promised) due to our insurance and for the next three days, he and I called around to get his tooth pulled while he remained in agony and considered driving to the ER. We received one of two answers during each call: the dental clinic wouldn’t take our health insurance or the wait time was around one month – or longer. For an emergency extraction!
After calling one clinic back multiple times a day hoping for a cancellation, I literally begged the receptionist to ask the surgeon to fit Mark in. Another week (of taking over-the-counter meds and lots of complaints) had gone by before he was actually seen. Only to be told by the surgeon that he had an infection, needed antibiotics, and required approval from his oncologist to get the extraction done. The surgeon would pull the tooth after Mark’s two-week antibiotics course was finished! He also prescribed painkillers that made my husband sick. At least and at last, Mark’s pain diminished some as he swallowed a combination of extra-strong Ibuprofen, Tylenol, and antibiotics. On top of the drugs he took for stomach discomfort that had been going on for many months.
So many trips to and around Boston!
During all this, Mark also got blood work done, received his first Covid-shot, and saw other specialists. People who know us or read my travel memoir Plunge might remember that Mark battled cancer in 2014. Since we have passed the five-year mark, he needs yearly check-ups, tests, and bloodwork instead of every six months. Glad that changed! Based on our lifestyle, it wasn’t always easy to accommodate those bi-yearly trips back to Massachusetts.
Standing in line for Mark’s Covid test in Salem, MA, (after being vaccinated) in order to undergo an endoscopy procedure
Anyway (I don’t want to make this post too long and boring), two values in Mark’s blood work were way off and more tests and procedures were scheduled. The fear of metastasized cancer followed us. During these last two months, Mark underwent an endoscopy, full-body bone scan, more blood tests (the thought being that his results might have been compromised by all the drugs he was taking), and talks with specialists and his primary care doctor. He also – finally – had his molar removed (and the wound stitched up) and became fully vaccinated.
The end result (so far): no signs of cancer. Phew! But the reasons for his high liver and bone values as well as his stomach issues have still not been determined. Mark has another blood test planned in August and upped his Omeprazole (acid reducer) intake to relieve the discomfort in his abdomen. His allergies have been acting up, too.
Some of the meds Mark was taking
Because many of these appointments took place way out of town and Maya can only be left alone for short periods at a time, she accompanied us everywhere on the road. Often we tried to combine doctors’ visits with a walk or a bit of sightseeing in “the neighborhood.”
During this, he helped out his parents with a plethora of tasks, from meeting with a palliative nurse (for his dad) to helping out with chores, shopping, fixing things, installing the air conditioner units for the summer, bringing them to doctors’ appointments, dealing with condo association troubles, ancestry discoveries and creating a family tree, you name it, all the while spending eight hours a day trying to locate the right pick-up truck (unsuccessfully). Of course, I help as much as possible, but it has been a tough few months.
The following photos will give you an idea of how many times Mark entered a clinic or doctor’s practice – alone or to accompany his mom – since we’ve been here, as every visit requires a new mask given to him to wear inside the building…
Liesbet
Because of everything going on in our two households, I’ve had a difficult time focusing on work, writing, and book promotion. Mark’s health comes first, his parents’ needs second, and Maya third. Fortunately, my physical state has been A-Okay. My dentist visit was a non-event, I have been fully vaccinated since the middle of May, and my annual check-up happens in July. My mood, however, hasn’t been great and sleep is restless, interrupted, and short.
In general, I’m a positivist and I am happy to be here (our room above the garage is not a bad place to be!), but the stress about Mark’s health, the frustration about not finding a truck (with little hope for improvement the coming months), and not knowing when we can hit the road again weighs on me. Maybe a break in Belgium will charge my batteries? If that works out…
Maya
Since June 4th, Maya has been in our lives for two years. She has come such a long way!!! Instead of shy, confused, itchy, and difficult, she appears very happy, constantly wagging her tail. She likes being in Newburyport, going on walks, meeting other dogs, and being in the presence of friends and family. Her allergies seem to be (mostly) under control. Sure, she is still infatuated with and attached to Mark, but I feel somewhat of a connection now as well.
Maya
She also still has separation anxiety. We need to leave her alone more often, to make her get used to being without us, as our lifestyle allows being together – the three of us – 24/7. This year, we taught her to not play aggressively with other dogs, ignore squirrels, and listen when called. No matter what. Well, that last point could use improvement as “no matter what” does not include the distraction of food offerings, grassy snacks, errant scraps, intoxicating smells, or a galloping deer. We will get there.
Maya remains quite stubborn and sometimes independent as well. She can be incredibly cute and sweet too. The most bizarre to us is her changing behavior and interest. Unlike other dogs who prefer routine and familiarity, she couldn’t care less about that. She mixes up her favorite spots to hang out (currently under my desk for most of the days and nights), where she prefers to do her business, when to play with a toy or a stick, and when to actually listen to what we ask her to do or perform all her tricks at once, guaranteeing she is right about one of them in order to get her treat. She’s a smart, adventurous cookie!
What’s next?
For now, we are plugging along… Still looking for an F350 short-bed pick-up truck, helping my in-laws, visiting friends and family who are fully vaccinated, doing our jobs, and “dreaming” of a life back on the road. Keep your fingers crossed for a successful visit to Belgium for both of us the coming weeks. The EU rules for Americans have still not eased and being vaccinated doesn’t seem to make a difference. Stay tuned!
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June 17, 2021 at 10:46
Wow! having read Plunge, I was greatly interested in this post and glad you shared the personal stuff. Although my husband and I are much older, I understand the cancer concerns and multiple doctor appointments. I am happy that you have Maya, the places in your story I wept were the illness and deaths of your dogs, and of course the discovery of Mark’s cancer. All our dogs have been rescues,, (4 in 30 years). If you have written about how you got Maya, I would love to read that. Hoping things work for both of you to get to Belgium, and of course, finding the right F350. Best and blessings, Michele
June 17, 2021 at 11:50
Hi Michele!
I go back and forth about the personal stuff on my blog. I had no issues sharing my experiences in Plunge – or in any book – but on my blog, it feels like it’s in the here and now and I’m not always convinced my husband likes it when I “talk” about him, plus there are so many open endings with what we are dealing with. Much better – and easier – to come to closure with a topic before elaborating on it… If possible.
I love it how your dogs have all been rescues. Good for you! Breeders keep the problems about overflowing shelters and unnecessary euthanizing of dogs going. At least that’s my opinion.
Every time you see a blue/underlined portion in my blogs, it means that I am linking that phrase to a previous post I have written about it. In the first paragraph under “Maya,” I have the portion “Since June 4th” linked to the post about us adopting her. Here it is: https://roamingabout.com/our-new-companion-maya/
That particular post also links back to our Utah experiences having dogs on sleepovers in our van and volunteering at Best Friends, the biggest no-kill animal sanctuary in the US. Food for thought and lots of reading material! 🙂
Thank you for your interest in our cute girl!
June 17, 2021 at 11:17
Hi Liesbet, You have had so much going on. I’m sorry to read about Mark’s tooth and all he had to go through with it. It’s hard when someone you love is hurting and you can’t fix it. I can truly sympathize with you about begging the receptionist for help. I’m a caregiver to a loved one and .. well the system sucks sometimes. Not lady like to say, but the truth.
I did not know that Mark had cancer before. I’m glad the blood test have come back good but hope they get to the bottom of what is causing his discomfort and get it fixed soon.
Congratulations on having beautiful Maya for two years!!
Enjoy your time in Massachusetts. It’s so pretty there this time of year. Take care.
June 17, 2021 at 11:55
Thank you for pointing out the flaws of our system, Lea, lady-like or not. I fully agree. When it comes to health care, I do miss Belgium. Even though a more caring, social system has issues as well… The longer we have Maya, the more we love her. 🙂 I have a lot of respect for you as a caregiver and I hope it isn’t all challenging and tough. Hugs!
June 17, 2021 at 11:24
Hi, Liesbet – Thank you for sharing so openly how the three of you are (really) doing. I’ve been wondering. Sending you all warm hugs….and big wishes that you find your pick-up truck soon.
Soooo cool that you were able to meet up with Lisa and The Captain!
June 17, 2021 at 11:57
Thanks, Donna! We are not totally desperate to leave Massachusetts yet, but we would have to – one way or another – before fall/winter in New England hits. There is, however, no indication that the truck market will be back to normal by then. It was lovely to catch up with Lisa and Fabio after six years. I’m hoping for a repeat if and when we head west again. 🙂
June 17, 2021 at 11:48
Thank you for the update! I’m so sorry that Mark has had to go through all of that. I can’t imagine experiencing tooth pain like that with no relief in sight… thank goodness it’s over now. My fingers and toes are crossed for him to get good results out of his tests in August.
It was great to see your pictures of Lisa and The Captain. One of these days I’ll have to travel to Arizona to see them.
Good luck on your truck search. I’ve heard that they are almost impossible to find at any price. This whole pandemic craziness has turned so many markets upside down in unpredictable ways. Everyone assures us that things will return to normal one of these days… whenever that is.
June 17, 2021 at 12:01
I hope you get to meet those two in Arizona one day, Janis. It was because of your email I added a blurb about Lisa and Fabio in this post. 🙂
I actually don’t know if things will ever return to normal. So much has happened since the pandemic started and so many businesses and people have been affected – in a financial, physical, or mental way. I truly believe the mindset of many people has changed too and not in a positive way. Although others have come to appreciate the small things in life again. Time will tell, I guess.
On a personal level, we did pretty okay in 2020; this year is when we are impacted because of the ripple effect on the economy. This was all so unpredictable! Thanks for the wishes. We can use them.
June 17, 2021 at 11:53
Oh dear, you’ve had a lot to go through, I’m so sorry. Reading about Mark’s experiences makes me appreciate our National Health Service even more. And how lovely to see Lisa and the Captain! I had been wondering how they were doing.
June 17, 2021 at 12:05
Hi Anabel!
I had a good blogging friend contact me privately, asking if I knew how Lisa and the Captain were doing. I did know the answer, as I’d just met up with them at the time. Because of that email exchange, I decided to included a little blurb about our friends, hoping readers who follow her blog appreciated the quick update. I know she is waaaayyyy too busy at the moment to keep her blog up to date. Or to read other blogs (this one included). Lisa, the career woman! 🙂
I hear you about National Health Services. In times like these, I miss my home country as well. The thing is that dental care is very different in the US from other health care, which we have no complaints about, in Massachusetts.
June 17, 2021 at 12:40
I eas very glad to see them looking so well.
June 19, 2021 at 11:35
We are all on a break from adventure!
June 17, 2021 at 11:59
I’m just as interested in this post as in all others. Life is about dealing with the routine and mundane things along with the more serious stuff (Mark’s health.) It’s a lot easier to be even-keeled when things are going well in our personal lives. I sometimes recall how chaotic life got when I was still working fulltime and my mom had so many visits to the hospital.
Here’s wishing your vehicle troubles get worked out and you can get back on the road again soon since that is where your hearts feel best.
June 17, 2021 at 12:08
Thank you so much for understanding and for the well wishes, Pete. If we don’t find a truck this summer, I – honestly – have no idea what we are doing. We can’t – and don’t want to – live in a guest room forever. But, as always, we will find some kind of a solution! 🙂
Yes, life can get overwhelming, especially when a lot of issues are happening around us. Seriously, I am grateful neither of us has to work full-time right now!! I can only imagine doing that, especially teaching, in combination with hospital visits…
June 17, 2021 at 12:07
Good grief–poor Mark! I had to have a tooth removed, infected. Nasty stuff! I’m glad you and Maya are healthy. that pup is so darling, dogging it up. How great you got to meet Pam Wight! That must have been fun.
I’ll cross my fingers for the F350. Used cars are getting extremely rare because of the chip shortage for new cars. I don’t hear any projections for when that will ease. You may be stuck with ‘crap’ car for a while! My son plans to buy a car when he transfers from Okinawa with the Army in October. I hope things are back to normal by then!
June 17, 2021 at 12:14
Meeting Pam – and her hubby – was great, Jacqui. At the moment, she only lives one hour away from me. I’m hoping we can repeat this with just the two of us, as our men are not too interested in blog and author talk, haha.
You have no idea what cute Maya was up to a couple of days ago. I don’t know if you are on Facebook. I just posted a photo of our dog’s latest goofiness there, but will post the photo in one of my upcoming blogs as well. It had to do with her “devouring” Plunge… 🙂
Yes, that’s why it is so hard to find a (used) car, mostly because of the chip shortage. I do hope this issue is resolved by the fall (for your son’s and our sake), but it will take a long time for new cars to trickle into people’s lives, who will then put their used ones up for sale. We might be in it for the long run! 🙁
June 17, 2021 at 12:16
I couldn’t tag you in a comment to my last Facebook post… I will find a way to share the photos with you.
June 17, 2021 at 13:04
Sorry it’s been rough the past few months. Glad Mark got his tooth taken care of and prayers no cancer has returned. Hope you can get to Belgium – seems silly being vaccinated isn’t helping.
June 19, 2021 at 11:36
Hi Alex! Red tape has often been our antagonist during our travels. We do hope to know more about this trip to Belgium tomorrow!
June 17, 2021 at 13:06
Liesbet, sometimes the burden feels a little lighter when we share. And, even though this post is intended for close friends and family, I think your casual followers appreciate it just as much. It gives us the opportunity to voice our support and express confidence in the two of you. I think the time in Belgium will serve you well. Safe travels.
June 19, 2021 at 11:42
Hi Suzanne! Thank you for that support and confidence. I really appreciate it. Even though it doesn’t look like it based on my memoir and my blog, there are a lot of struggles that I tend to keep to myself as I hate to complain and “ask” for sympathy. When you chose a lifestyle like ours, people often think we are lucky and happy – all – the – time, but there is more to life than priorities and travel. Health, genes, family, and finances play an important part in our life, no matter how we live it.
June 17, 2021 at 15:25
Lies et so appreciate the transparency because I’ve been wondering how you both are doing and although I’m relieved that ultimately you are okay I truly feel for you both having to endure so much in the past few months. Sounds like such a challenging time. Health issues are always the toughest I think and reading how much pain Mark was in and for so long was hard JUST reading about. Glad you are on the other side of teeth hell and do hope you get to go to Belgium and that the results give you reason to celebrate good health.
How lovely you got to see Lisa! That’s really great.
Maya looks and sounds like she is doing really well! Good to see.
Safe travels and fingers crossed for good health.
Big hugs
This too shall pass
Peta
June 17, 2021 at 15:26
Oops just saw the “e” is missing from your name
xoxo
June 19, 2021 at 11:47
Blame auto-correct! People who have known me for years still spell my name wrong in emails. I can only think it’s the software trying to be smarter than the human writing the messages…
June 19, 2021 at 11:46
Hi Peta! I guess you can look at our previous months from a positive side as well: we had a comfortable room and no rush to deal with all our issues. We have been relatively patient about not finding a truck, despite all our efforts, but we fear nothing will pan out before the fall. We will see what happens. Our motto! First, we hope Belgium materializes and after that, we will start over again in our pick-up search. It has never been so difficult – and “unhappening” – for us to change gears… The entire year so far has been uncooperative with our “desires.”
June 17, 2021 at 19:05
No need to apologize for sharing your troubles, Liesbet. Friends who read your blog want to know. I ached reading about Mark’s tooth pain and the delay in getting relief.
My hopes for you: more girl time with Pam, your continued good health, and the right truck at just the right time–sooner rather than later. A trip for both of you to Belgium would be a delightful change.
One more thing: You are the best Maya Mama ever! ((( )))
June 19, 2021 at 11:49
Hi Marian! Thanks for rooting us on. That girl time with Pam might happen later this summer and, hopefully, we will have our health squared away soon as well. The big unknown ticket is that truck. There is one extra complication with that, which I will write about when the time is right. Maya is the luckiest dog ever! 🙂 Have a wonderful weekend, my friend!
June 18, 2021 at 10:29
I so sorry to hear about the health and other issues you and Mark are having’ Liesbet. I had no idea about Mark’s cancer, and can’t image what it must have been like having to live with that very bad toothache. As I have said before, though, I’m just glad you have a safe place to stay for now. I know you both want to get back on the road, and that time will come, but knowing you are safe is my prime concern.
Pets can often been a challenge, but the best thing about them is that they give back so much loyalty and love in return for us looking after them. I can’t imagine life without my two dogs.
What with the health issues of Mark’s parents too, I can see why it all seems too much. I wonder if it helped putting this all down on your blog? My fingers are crossed that you will both be allowed to travel to Belgium.
Take good care of yourselves.
Sending you all lots of hugs.
June 19, 2021 at 11:57
You are so right, Hugh! Being safe and having this place to stay has been our saving grace. Of course, if this room wouldn’t have been an option, we wouldn’t have sold Zesty. We usually only take calculated risks. Except, nobody could have predicted the shortage of cars and trucks and the massive post-pandemic inflation – with no end in sight. Crazy times!
Dogs are so worth the extra challenges. Each time we adopt them, we are aware of the restraints and restrictions that come with that. And, each time, we are okay with it, having fitting travel options in mind. In the case of adopting Maya two years ago, we knew we wouldn’t be able to fly internationally anymore and postponed our plans to house sit all over the world. We figured she could join us on an overland adventure to South America. We have experience traveling with dogs overland through Central America, so this would not be the issue. Apparently, finding transportation is!
Thanks for the crossing of the fingers. We should find out if he/we can go by Monday.
June 20, 2021 at 04:46
Yes, it’s a crazy world at the moment, Liesbet. In the UK, there are shortages of lots of things, including cars, garden furniture, and even camping equipment. The latter, I think, because many Brits are holidaying in the UK this year, and with hotels, guest houses and Bed & Breakfast establishments are all fully booked, Given that many counties have insisted British travellers have to quarantine for 14 days if they travel to them, you can see why many are choosing to holiday in the UK.
June 20, 2021 at 13:17
That makes sense, Hugh, to stay close to home this summer. I think most Americans have decided to do the same thing. The prices of RVs are swinging out of the pan right now as well and few are available. We hope to keep traveling within the US as well. This visit to Belgium is solely to see my family (and friends), as usual.
June 18, 2021 at 11:01
Wow Liesbet that is a lot on the plate of life. I’m so relieved mark’s cancer free but of course the ongoing symptoms and blood work abnormalities a concern. The dental saga sound beyond brutal .I don’t know how he coped through it frankly.
On a brighter note I’m glad you were able to connect with Lisa and Fabio. Lovely to see the photos of them.
Take care and hoping for brighter days ahead.
June 19, 2021 at 11:59
When it rains, it pours, right, Sue? Again, no lives are in danger, so we are okay. 🙂 Thank you for the well wishes and support!!
June 18, 2021 at 16:43
Ugh…such is life at times. Things will get better, hang in there.
June 19, 2021 at 11:59
Thanks, Leslie! Newburyport is not a bad place to be stuck in (despite the deja-vu from last year), as long as it’s summer. 🙂
June 18, 2021 at 16:49
Ahoy from the desert, where we miss you very much, and are looking forward to future opportunities to hang out with you. My work may bring me East after Labor Day, so if you are still there, we need to meet up!
Sorry to hear about Mark’s far too lengthy tooth ordeal, but relieved to hear that subsquent, unrelated tests didn’t find caner. I hope that the doctors are able to figure out what is causing his high liver and bone values and can resolve his stomach issues. I adore that picture of Mark and Maya on the beach.
Glad you are able to manage through all that you have on your plate. Wishing you a safe trip to Belgium soon, with a bit of time off for you to take care of you.
PS – Cera and Lily are adorable in their communion dresses!
PSS – Made my day to receive love from you, and from Donna, Janis, Anabel, Peta, and Sue, in the comments section. I miss my blogging buddies, and hope to reconnect soon.
June 19, 2021 at 12:04
Well, hello there, Lisa!!! How did you know I wrote about you? Telepathy, whispers, or just coincidence? 🙂 It’s so nice to hear from you and we miss you both as well. I sure count on meeting up again, but in Arizona. Unless your trip east would be temporarily and short… I know we talked about a New York potential, but wishing that can be delayed as long as possible. The blogging community is full of love and sympathy. I do hope your weekends have been less busy and that you managed some relaxation, as hiking might be getting a tad too hot, even on Mt. Lemon. Hugs from all three of us!
June 18, 2021 at 18:42
It is always wonderful to read about you, Mark and Maya, Liesbet! When we can share more about ourselves (blogging is more real than than FB and IG in my opinion),we can be there for each other if just virtually (now that most of us are more used to that notion). I know I value my online friendships especially after meeting many IRL. I’m on a weekly zoom chat with some other bloggers and really enjoy it!
I can’t imagine the pain Mark dealt with! I can tolerate a lot of pain, but a toothache is the worst. Our US medical system is hugely flawed and it should never take weeks to get a simple tooth extraction done. Most of those are 100% covered by insurance!
Happy 2 year “gotcha” adoption of Maya, the sweet girl! And how wonderful to see Lisa! I miss her posts and amazing photos! Glad to know she is in AZ (as are many people apparently).
Keep on keepin’ on, Liesbet. I’ve learned to be patient these days. Like you, I am grateful we have out home. We still have a lot of logistics to accomplish but the polebarn/shop construction is experiencing one delay after the other. If it’s not a concrete shortage, employees quitting or fewer people working and staying on unemployment, it is something else. Great to read your post today! I pray for all good things and relief from the stress!
June 19, 2021 at 12:13
Hi Terri!
If I ever have to pick one form of social media/online medium, it would be my blog. I would never voluntarily drop that. Like you, I believe we are making real connections and creating real friendships through our blog posts and sharing opinions, thoughts, and experiences in the posts and in the comments. It is very valuable to me and ever-lasting, unlike Facebook or Instagram, which I have been neglecting a bit. And, I’m not even talking about Twitter, which has been an afterthought for me. Who has time and energy for it all???
I wonder if your weekly Zoom call is with the group of bloggers I know? 🙂
Yes, tooth aches are the worst. We have all experienced them, hopefully for short amounts of time. In general, Mark and I have been very happy with healthcare in Massachusetts and it is one of the reasons why we keep our residency here, but dental is different for some reason.
We all have to be patient, it looks like. To travel. To buy. To rent. To build. To drive. If we’d have a camper or a house somewhere, we certainly could be patient as well. Unfortunately, we are in a pickle…
Sorry to read about the delay with your barn/shop. All these shortages, the lack of employees, and the absence of a work ethic are all unexpected ripple effects of the pandemic. Hopefully, things will get back to “normal” somehow and soon… Have a wonderful weekend!
June 18, 2021 at 20:51
Thank goodness, the health issues were sorted. I’m afraid I really dislike the American health system and insurance schemes. Seems barbaric. Though who knows how effective our health system will be when us baby boomers all reach old age, perhaps stretching it to breaking point. On a more positive note, great that you had more social outings, we are so looking forward to being able to do that when we get Les’s transplant done and dusted.
June 19, 2021 at 12:16
Hi Suz!
The way health insurance works here is, indeed, insane. Obamacare is/would be a solution for many people. That “for profit” train of thought is not good for the patient! There are good and bad things about the health system in the US. A comparison with a more social country like Belgium would take an entire article and be quite boring, haha. Our social gatherings, while still far and few between, have been wonderful. If only for the fact that we can hug again and talk to each other without masks and in close proximity. It is weird to get used to again!
Wishing you both well and keeping my fingers crossed for the transplant!!!
June 18, 2021 at 21:32
Liesbet, I’m sorry to hear about Mark’s health challenges. It’s terrible that he had to endure the dental pain for so long. I’m glad to hear he’s cancer-free and you and Maya are well. It’s great that you’ve been able to socialize with fully vaccinated family and friends. Great to see Lisa and Fabio, too. I hope you get to go to Belgium and find a suitable vehicle by Fall to go somewhere warm. Take care.
June 19, 2021 at 12:19
Natalie, having everyone around us and ourselves fully vaccinated makes all the difference. That’s why I would be so bummed if we can’t travel to Belgium later this month. Either way, this will be a summer of rekindled social interactions, hopefully in both countries. 🙂 And, with a bit of luck, we will get a truck by the fall… Happy weekend!
June 19, 2021 at 06:56
You do such a good job filling us all in with the wherewithal’s of you and Mark (hmm, not sure why that word cropped up in my mind – I keep writing interesting ones to you). My guy and I got to know about some of your challenges during our WONDERFUL get together on our front porch with you, Mark, and Maya, who I must add is a beautifully trained and sweet dog. I fell in love with her, and as I said, if you decide you want to ‘give her away,’ she’s mine!! 🙂 She relaxed at my feet and licked them with such doggy love. Anyway, enough gushing. This is the “summer of challenges” for you and Mark, and I have such high hopes that in the end, it will all turn out as it’s supposed to. Mark’s parents are so fortunate to have you both there to help, and Mark is getting his health assessed and taken care of, all necessities. Maybe you and I can get a girlfriend-get-together soon! xo <3
June 19, 2021 at 12:24
Pam, you are so sweet and kind!!! And I love that your vocabulary is stretched (or refreshed) in your comments to me. I love language and I adore funky words that totally make sense but are hardly used. Keep them coming! 🙂
Maya thanks you for the compliments. We gave her a haircut yesterday and she looks incredibly cute and cuddly now, like a teddy bear with tiger stripes. I’ll have to post a photo soon! She strained her loins, so we have to keep it/her calm for a few days.
There is a good reason (many, actually) to be here right now and we do realize that. I guess our worry is that we will be stuck here much longer than we prefer, which has happened before… Mark’s parents are incredibly happy and grateful we are here. Mark is currently dealing with some condo association issues regarding replacing all the decks and railings in the entire building.
Yes, let’s try to meet again this summer – you and I – for girl time. Maybe in Boston? Or here in Newburyport. Let’s stay in touch!! Happy weekend and happy summer!!!
June 20, 2021 at 08:52
Aw, give an extra hug to my buddy Maya. And go ahead and give one to Mark too. 🙂 We’ve had CA family visiting for a week now and I’m behind in blogging/writing but life will resume to “kinda normal” by July. Let’s set a date!
June 20, 2021 at 13:20
I won’t be able to set a date quite yet… My three-week trip to Belgium is next. I haven’t made any other plans after that. We’ll be back on July 15th late and then we can hopefully spend a couple of days here with our friends who will take care of Maya during our absence. After all that, we can set a date. I’m looking forward to meeting up with you again! Either the end of July or early August. 🙂
June 21, 2021 at 14:10
I’m so excited for you – getting to Belgium. Whoo Hoo!! See you later in the summer, my friend. <3
June 21, 2021 at 14:44
See you then! We will both have new (family) stories… 🙂
June 19, 2021 at 09:57
Sounds like you’ve had a lot on your plate. Maya is awfully cute:)
Be well.
June 19, 2021 at 12:25
Thanks, Sandra! Maya is the cutest dog ever – smart, but also stubborn and trouble. 🙂
June 19, 2021 at 12:26
Liesbet, reading your post feels like having a chat with a lifelong friend. A very honest, open and generous friend and I am sure it helps others who are also going through very similar situations.
Mark has had more than his fare share of health issues, but I am so glad that his on the mend now. Fingers crossed for your trip to Belgium, it will go very well indeed. I just hope Maya will not miss you guys too much.
So lovely to hear about Lisa and Fabio and what they are up too, I have missed Lisa’s blog, thank you for the update.
June 20, 2021 at 13:11
Hi Gilda!
I was a bit on the fence writing and publishing this post, as part of me thinks “Nobody cares; this is boring” and another part thinks “It’s nobody’s business; I don’t want to complain.” Usually, when I elaborate on the less fun parts of our life, it is because I don’t want people to think that our lifestyle is always positive and awesome. This is one of the reasons I wrote Plunge the way I did – a realistic picture of a coveted lifestyle. I considered putting in my memoir’s blurb or subtitle “Shit happens everywhere, even in paradise!” 🙂
Our good friends Duwan and Greg will watch – and live with Maya – while we are in Belgium. 🙂 But, there will be some “missing” all around…
June 19, 2021 at 18:27
Oh my word! Poor Mark. Infections in a tooth can be very dangerous. I can’t believe how these doctors handled the issue. I hope he’s feeling better. His liver level could be up due to the medications. I’m glad to hear he’s cancer free. I hope you’ll be able to escape the cold winter months!
June 20, 2021 at 13:15
Hi Jill!
Yeah, the entire tooth story was messed up and dragged out. I was appalled and surprised at the same time. Mostly because his dentist wasn’t able to pull his tooth. That would have been the quickest and easiest thing and would have made most sense to me. In Belgium, dentists pull teeth… That’s part of the job description. Apparently, molars are tricky and need a dental surgeon.
Even after being finished with his medication (other than the acid relievers), his liver values remained up. We will see what happens in August. Hopefully, somehow, we can leave after that last blood test.
June 21, 2021 at 15:01
It seems like I’m always late to leave a comment. When I returned to your post i found that i was halfway through looking at your pictures. We must have been driving somewhere and stopped before I was able to finish.
I love the javelinas!
I hate that Mark has been in such misery. And all the doctor’s appointments must have been hell. Still it sounds like you all have been able to be productive. I’m sure Mark’s folks appreciate all the help.
Maya is so cute! Looking forward to hanging out with her.
Hope you feel like things are looking a bit up now. Can’t wait to see you!
June 22, 2021 at 14:53
Hi Duwan!
I do that all the time as well, especially in the car. I start reading a blog (sometimes yours!) and get disconnected or distracted before I finish reading or commenting… Those never-ending doctors’ appointment, I tell you. I guess you know what I’m talking about now, after your last Florida ordeals.
We gave Maya a haircut a few days ago. If you thought she was cute before… She looks like a teddy bear now and we want to keep cuddling with her. 🙂 Can’t wait to see you too. I hope all goes well in our absence and that you both will have a splendid time here. I wish that this was more in my control, though!
June 21, 2021 at 22:00
That’s a lot to go through in just a few months, but I hope the latter half of this year will be better and things will get sorted out!
June 22, 2021 at 14:55
Hi Deb! We are wishing this with you and hope the second part of the year will make up for the first one. We have kind of come to terms that 2021 will be a “lost” year, though. Not that 2020 was that much better. Still, I feel like I’m learning more every day – if not about myself, then about others and the world in general.
June 21, 2021 at 22:06
Oye! Your plate runneth over my friend. I know well of all things you worry. And of course your husband’s welfare comes first. But that awul toothache, here, if you’re in pain for anything, including teeth, you go to hospital emerge. No way should he had to suffer that long! The world is mad! Hang tight my friend as we transition this slippery slopey part of the world changing before us. <3
June 22, 2021 at 14:58
I know you understand, Debby. <3 We will all get through this. Apparently, the ER in the US is not set up to deal with dental care. They could have given him strong painkillers, I guess. I was surprised his dentist couldn't take him in to perform the extraction. I've never heard (in Belgium, anyway) that dentists don't pull molars. Oh well. At least I could write about that episode in the past tense. :-)
June 21, 2021 at 23:09
Wow, what a tough slog, and a dental nightmare for Mark! No wonder you’re not sleeping well. And I can’t believe it’s been two years since you got Maya – how time flies! Here’s hoping everything settles down for you soon…
June 22, 2021 at 15:02
Here’s a big advantage about taking a red-eye flight to Europe: the next night is always the best one of my life. I sleep, sleep, sleep. Blissful and elusive. Thanks for the wishes! Time flies indeed!!! Have a great and productive rest of your week, Diane!
June 23, 2021 at 21:04
Hi Liesbet, I am happy to see photos of Lisa and Fabio. I am a real fan of her blog and her amazing photos. I realize she has not been posting recently. Glad to hear they are doing well. Toothaches are a pain at the best of times, and much more challenging when you are travelling. Wow, sooo sorry about the lengthy hassle for an emergency extraction. Along with everything else in your post, a very stressful time for you. I am still keeping my fingers crossed for Belgium.
June 26, 2021 at 06:26
Lisa and Fabio seem to be and are the highlight of this blog post, Erica! 🙂 We’ve had some bad months behind us. Life can only get better after such a period, right? And, guess what? I am currently in Belgium and we recently learned Mark is allowed to visit in a week as well. 🙂
June 26, 2021 at 11:28
Yay! Yay! Yay! Have a wonderful visit and stay safe, Liesbet ❤️
June 26, 2021 at 13:20
Thanks a lot, Erica. Belgium is slowly opening up and most people have been vaccinated. I’ve been fully vaccinated since mid-May. We are still careful and masked inside, but at least I can see my friends and family in real life again. 🙂
June 27, 2021 at 18:40
“Into every life a little rain must fall.” My mother always said that to me (still does), and it annoyed the heck out of me until I finally took it a bit more to heart. I am sorry you’ve had this rough patch, but I’m sure you will regroup. I’m happy you have a safe and comfortable place to do that.
June 28, 2021 at 04:41
True words, Lexie. Your mother is a wise woman. Mine has a few expressions as well, but they are in Dutch. I’m replying to you from a comfy seat along a huge window that looks out over a Belgian garden and the usual little rain. Comfort is good! 🙂
June 28, 2021 at 09:38
Oh, I’m so happy you got to go! Yay – enjoy every minute.
June 29, 2021 at 03:44
Thanks, Lexie! It’s been crazy busy. These three weeks are flying… But it’s awesome to finally see my family and (some) friends again. 🙂
June 28, 2021 at 08:33
Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.
June 29, 2021 at 03:43
Not sure which place you are talking about, Manisha, but there are certainly many amazing areas in the United States to explore. Our favorites are located out west.
July 4, 2021 at 14:44
Liesbet, you had been dropping ominous sounding breadcrumbs about your current trials throughout your recent posts, and now I know why. Poor Mark! His dental ordeal sounds horrible, and on top of that abnormal test results are very scary for a cancer survivor.
Regarding the lack of pickup trucks available now or in the near future — have you started working on a “Plan B” until the vehicle market settles down?
Jude
July 14, 2021 at 11:55
Hi Jude!
No plan B yet… In our heads, we always return to plan A as that is really what we wanted to do. And, our search is a tad more complicated than just needing a truck as well.
We applied for a year-long travel stipend with AirBnB but didn’t make the next round. Probably since we have a dog in tow. And, we declined a multiple-month house sit in a desirable area in New Mexico (Santa Fe). I know it’s not wise to bet all our horses on the same plan, but we do hope we will get lucky soon or that the market recovers. Life is always an adventure!!