More Than This

More Than This

I had a wonderful morning. Although Fruitycake and I got caught in a heavy downpour, well, we were walking to Portofino from our house. And how can I complain about that? It’s the first time I have taken that path in the months we have been here. There’s been the daily struggles of survival. And that’s been priority.

No. It’s not fun to be soaking wet and muddy sometimes. But I also can look around and see that I am very fortunate to be here. I am surrounded by tourists every day that have dreamt of visiting Italy for their entire lives. I see the excitement on their faces. And I don’t take it for granted to be here. As Fruitycake and I made it into the town, I went in a little shop to get a couple slices of focaccia bread. That’s one of the food specialities in this area. And they recognized me as being local. So they gave me a discount. And I felt pretty good about that. Local? Yes. I live here.  And I can’t believe it.

But as wonderful as it is to be involved in this house project, taking Italian language classes and enjoying good food, there is more to this journey for me. And I better start planning.

It occurred to me a couple of days ago, that once we get the house a bit functional, which I think will be a year or less, we need to pursue something else. A calling of sorts that has been a part of us since Brickle and Digby. And I owe it to them. We need to use the resources we have to help animals here too. And we have decided that we will start by hosting hiking experiences for rescue dogs up our path and give those dogs a day off from the shelter. We haven’t decided specifics yet. And maybe…just maybe…that is just the start. Maybe…just maybe…Brickle knew what we should do. And this is going to part of his story and Digby’s story and Fruitycake’s.

We have always believed in using our resources to do something to help animals. And I’m feeling these thoughts more than strongly. I know we should do it. It’s going to take us a little while to get our house operational. But I feel like this is a goal. A goal from Brickle. Thanks, my friend. I knew that there was more than this just in front of me.

-Rachael

Blog tips help with videos, article and more. You can also specify your support for programs like our house renovation or treats for Fruitycake! You can show your support here

Please consider joining our Patreon page! You get a secret photo each day of Italy and your support means more than you know. Join here