PAGING STUMANCHU

Yeah, I've been in the wind. This in fact is the first correspondence of any kind I've had with anyone in a month's time. Here's the skinny. My business opportunity fell through shortly upon returning from the States. We were not able to agree upon our terms so I was back to square one in the job search. I must say I had very mixed feelings about the outcome. On the one hand, I didn't really want to be doing that kind of work here, but on the other hand, suckers walk and money talks. I've been basically broke and it has been a burden on me. I'm not entirely depressed however as being broke and being poor are not the same thing and fortunately I am only the former. Life here for me in all other regards is extremely rich.

As many of you know, this is the season for harvesting olives. We have not yet begun but don't worry, we have not missed the window. My father-in-law, Stergos, and I have been working out at our property daily. Yeah, I mean our house. We're doing all the last minute changes before the top layer of cement then tile flooring is laid. All the electric lines, water lines, heating lines etc... runs under the floor so we have to have all that set. The house was ready for flooring a few years ago but Eirini and I wanted to add plugs, more outlets and what not. I'm installing computer network infastructure as well. In addition to all the work at the house, we're doing some house painting work for various friends and relatives. We typically head out in the mornigs at about 7:30am and get back to town by dark around 5pm. I enjoy the labor and staying busy. I enjoy even more the delicious homemade meals waiting for us, accompanied by ouzo, beer, and plenty of fellowship and laughter.

Three times a week I attend a little language school which is offered free of charge by the local government. I try to make most of the classes but occasionally don't make it back from the village in time. I'm happy to announce that my greek is comming along slowly but surely. I'm finally able to carry on very basic conversations about the weather and olives and so on. It can be very frustrating at times but what could I have expected? After all, I moved to Rhodes, Greece not Rhode Island!

As for the weather, well, I'm sorry you're not here to enjoy it. We had a brief cold front with some rain which lasted about 3 days and its been sunny, clear, and mild ever since. Unfortunately I haven't any time for the beach at the moment but I am outdoors all day.

Also, I want to wish eveyone in the States a very happy Thanksgiving! I would love some roasted turkey and pumkin pie. Signing out for now.

SMC