(Post #41) Full Circle Reflections: From Victoria’s Condo to Adventures on the Horizon

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Being in this beautiful, modern condo has been a bit of a twist in my house/pet sitting journey. Not only am I surrounded by views that makes even my morning coffee feel like a luxury experience, but there’s also a sense of comfort here that’s both unexpected and fitting as I prepare for my upcoming travels. The condo complex even offers guest suites in the building for tenants to offer to their visiting family and friends. Generously, the owners suggested that I stay in one on the night they return, so I won’t have to rush off late. In fact, it looks like I am continuing an extra week in the suites and will be lending a hand with Niki a little bit longer since I have a free week in-between gigs. 

And just when I thought things couldn’t get any more delightful, I made a new friend! Introduced by a mutual friend in Toronto, she recently moved to Victoria and lives just a few blocks away from this building. We met at a waterfront restaurant, and from the first hug, it felt like we’d known each other for years. Over wine and dinner, we shared stories of our lives, finding similarities in our journeys as strong, independent women. She’d recently driven all the way from Ontario to BC with her cats and dog in tow—just the kind of wild spirit I could relate to. We laughed, swapped stories, and made plans to meet again.

This stay has turned into something meaningful. Sitting here with Niki the schnauzer curled up beside me, I’m getting ready—physically, mentally, and financially—for the upcoming travels to Costa Rica and Malaysia following my last house/pet sit mid December. The tickets are officially booked, and now I’m reminding myself that this isn’t a dream. Costa Rica means reconnecting with my daughter, who’s out there living her dream life in another country, just like she did back in her adventurous teaching days in South Korea. I see my love of exploring the world in her, and it makes me wonder if wanderlust really is genetic.

And then there’s Malaysia. Heading back to Asia brings back memories of a trip with my ex-husband in the 80s, just before we left Libya and I began my next chapter as a mother. Now, decades later, I’m returning solo but with the excitement of a new connection: Graeme, someone I met who’s given me a reason to add a little allure to my travels. Who knew house/pet sitting would be my launchpad for world tours and international rendezvous?

This whole undertaking has become so much more than a way to stay on budget. It’s practically nudging me toward the life I’ve always wanted, full of unexpected connections and new friends. It seems the adventures I thought were behind me are just warming up.

Dining at its Best









Niki's Relaxed Space



















Walks are Always a Joy

Next: (Post #42)  Cyclones, and Crossed Wires: A Nomad’s Tale
Location: Esquimalt, BC V9A, Canada

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