Having fun getting stuff ready for renting the house in San Miguel de Allende that I'm closing on in November.
When I go down there I'm going to be bringing travel size bottles of toiletries, first aide, etc. Plus spun ring towels I found on a hotel supply site (thanks pool buddy Connie), a small Keurig and other items I can get cheaper in the states.
Actually, I've been smiling a lot.
When I told the realtors I'd be making an offer, they asked me if I'd like to see some staging furniture they wanted to get rid of. It was in a recently sold house that in my part of the country would have sold for a couple of million dollars.
An entire house of new furniture, including all the bedding/comforters/sheets, sofa, I think maybe 5 or 6 various other chairs, a 2nd couch that folds down into an extra bed, king size bed, full size bed, 2 dining room tables and their chairs (one set will go on the rooftop terrace), cocktail and end tables, 2 or 3 wall mirrors......
for $3,000.
Through my friend who lives there, I've gotten to know someone who makes his living by being "the man who makes things happen" He's the hombre who has the inside track, and makes himself indispensable. With a phone call, he's the one who'll send people to pick it all up, store it, and deliver to the house upon closing. For $800. Well worth it.
Funny story. While eating breakfast one day down there, before even seeing the house, friend says, "oh look it's Mario" He sweeps in, looking like a cross between Capt Jack Sparrow and Douglas Fairbanks in The Thief of Bagdad, kisses everyone hello, and chats for a moment, my friend saying that of course I'd be needing him for various things in the coming months. "Of course, of course", Mario enthuses. While talking, someone across the restaurant waves hello. He responds with a flourish of his Panama hat. Then he says "Excuse me, I have to go meet some new clients"
Turns out it's the table of Americans sitting right behind us, who are now sitting in awe at this phenomena, and who already can't believe their luck.
I know it sounds like bragging, but this whole thing is just falling together like a charm.
Mario....