Hi Gang.

It has been quite a while since I have posted anything on the blog, actually it has been over two months. And I do apologize, but Nancy and I have been a somewhat busy here in SWFL. I want to thank everyone who sent letters, emails, and texts supporting us  is so many, many ways. This was not something two people in the early 80’s needed, but it is what it is . We are still attempting to tackle the myriad of things we are having to do one day at a time.

The house is slowly beginning to look like a home, but still have a long way to go. We lost both of our cars and then learned that the RV was to be totaled as well. The insurance company has been gracious enough to allow us to live in it until we can move into the house, which I suspect will be sometime  in early spring.

I can’t believe how great FEMA has been. They came in for phase one and cleaned up all the curbside “stuff” from everyone’s home as well as all the trees that were cut down and stacked curbside. The photo at the top was the initial stuff that went to the curb; twice as much followed as the reclamation crew made their way through the entire house. The only furniture saved was some made from solid wood, all else went to the curb. Of course, there was much more added to the curbs after that phase as they were so quick to get in here and start the cleanup. They returned this week for phase two of the cleanup. For a govt agency, let me say I was impressed! Kudos to the guys working for that agency; they are very thorough!

Drywall is up and painted, some plumbing has been done as well as some electrical work. Once cabinets and counter tops are installed they will return to make all the necessary connections.  We purchased one mattress and are sleeping in the house, but all else is still taking place in the RV and will be for quite some time as the kitchen will take the longest to complete. The reason things are going slow is you can only imagine how contractors/vendors are in such high demand. For example, kitchen cabinets can take as long as fourteen weeks for delivery.

So, rest assured Nancy and I are well physically; can’t say the same emotionally as I’m sure you can imagine – LOL. Again, thank you so very much for the support everyone has provided

Semper Fi, Jim