And we're here

After a week of "arriving" I would say we are safely moving into the adjustment period. That weird part at the beginning of any new phase of your life, where you try to find normalcy in a completely unknown arena. I expected normalcy to be a daily routine of walking the dogs, riding the bike to the cafe, preparing wraps and smoothies all day, a little exercise in the evening and some evening relaxation (mixed with cooking). The dogs are daily enjoying their walks on the beach. The bike was a disaster (whoever said "it's just like riding a bike" lied) and the Belizean government has a different idea concerning us running our business. We daily are reminded that we live in a developing country. We have yet to be able to obtain work permits as the government is currently overhauling their system so that the labor department instead of the immigration department will now be handling work permits. When asked how long this transition might take, the response was "it's hard to say." Bugger! In the meantime we will spend a little extra money to expedite PJs work permit, but mine is on hold.

We have discovered that locals love sweets, so I will become a "stay at home baker." To create cookies, cupcakes and whatever other delicious baked item pops into my head will be my new mission. So far, banana cupcakes and oatmeal/cinnamon/coconut/chocolate chip cookies (definitely need a shorter name for that one) have been a huge hit. Today strawberry muffins and snickerdoodles are on the todo list. Since I love the beach, the dogs and baking, I certainly am not complaining about my current situation.

Speaking of dogs, they are adjusting just beautifully. It turns out that Dutch loves the water and has learned a new phrase: want to go for a swim. At which point Dutch runs straight to the water and lays down. Belikin is not so enthused by the water, but has always enjoyed digging so has found his own niche on the beach. All of the men and boys who work on the water taxis were very entertained by Balikin's name and often stop by the cafe looking for him. It looks like we are going to be ok here in our little slice of paradise. Come see us soon!!