Home Again.....

This promises to be a beautiful weekend for Super Bowl 2010.  Yes, it is taking place here in Miami, Florida and it is amazing to see all the activity and partying going on.  The crowd is just bursting with excitement.  I don't really get it.....

When we landed yesterday the airport was lined up with rows and rows of private jets all coming here for The Super Bowl 44.  Also, the Intracoastal and The New River is lined with boats and more boats.  A very spectacular site.  I am not crazy about football (hope my nephew does not see this because boy is he a fan.  Has been waiting for this weekend it seems forever  Max...love you and have a great time at the games...!!!).   I do like the ads.  They are the best, very funny and super clever. 

Since getting back home we have been organizing and organizing getting back into the rhythm of our routines.  The first thing we did upon getting home was to of course make sure Brutus was well taken care of.  He got into the swing of things right away.  No problem there.  The very next thing for us was to head to the hot tub....so very relaxing after a long and tiring day.   It is good to be home but right away we can tell the diffrence between being here and being in Eleuthera.  Arvid right away starts honking the horn, our driving becomes more agressive and we seem to be tense without really realizing it.  Of course the phone calls come in at all hours.  If you can't sleep or have nothing beter to do that does not mean we can't or that we don't.  It Eleuthera we never unplugged our phones here we have to do it all the time just to get some peace in he evenings....

What I am really looking forward to doing right now is heading out to the nearest Starbucks and getting me my cafe latte.....can actually taste it.  City life does have its merits after all.....

Eleuthera actually does have a restaurant that serves specialty coffees among other things...it's called Pina Cafe......

Well that's it for now.  Have lots to do and to take care of.  It's back to business as usual here in Fort Lauderdale......and I am loving it.  

“One day your life will flash before your eyes. Make sure its worth watching.”

until next time....

Homeward Bound....

A good home must be made, not bought.

Our stay in Eleuthera has come to an end...at least for this trip.  We have had a very good time (as usual) but, now it's time to go back home.  We love it here in Eleuthera but we also love our home back in Fort Lauderdale so we are also looking forward to that.   Have missed our pool and hot tub (pictured above).

Back home in Florida we go to the pool/hot tub at least 2 times a week.  Here in Eleuthera we go to the beach...right on our doorstep everyday.  Either way we love it and have a great time.

At home in Florida we live at a different pace....much more hectic and more aggressive, compared to the laid back lifestyle we have here in Eleuthera.

Right now I am ready for that change.  Makes me feel alive and vibrant.  I love a good challenge and just dealing with everyday life is a challenge.  Already our thoughts are ready for all the things we have to do and take care of once we get home.

Brutus is so relaxed here but, he also has his favorite spots at home.  Being a city cat he loves to look out of the floor to ceiling windows and just observe......right now Brutus is so into his island lifestyle I am not sure he is ready to go back home.  Even Arvid said he was sad because he did not wish to go back home as yet either.  Truth be told we need to get home.  We have our business to take care of. 

We come to Eleuthera once a month and this is the perfect blend for us.  We work very hard when in Florida and just when we think we can't take it any more it's time to come back to Eleuthera.

We have a beautiful home with all the comfort and amenities we can wish for....( check the link on my page titled Our Apartment) right now I am looking forward to a very looooooooooong, hot shower.  In Eleuthera we have to be a little more careful with our water supply because we have a water tank and do not want to waste a single drop.  At home I am a little less cautious.

On our last evening here in Eleuthera we went out to celebrate again.  This time it was for another great trip we've had here.  We went to Cocodimama one very beautiful Resort.  Just check the link.

http://www.cocodimama.com/

Known for their mojitos and no one better than Sammy, the bartender to make the perfect mojito.

For now it's goodbye Eleuthera until our next time here.

As usual we have had a wonderful time here in our island.  It is sad to leave but, we will be back.  For now we have to go back home and take care of business........

The purpose of our lives is to be happy

until next time....

General Information

ELEUTHERA
Population: 8,000

Size: 100 miles long, 200 sq. miles total
Highest Point: 168 ft.
Location: Lat. N25 10' 00" - Long. W76 15' 00"
Distance from Nassau: 60 miles East
Distance from Miami: 240 miles Southeast

HISTORY

In 1647 a small band of English pilgrims left Bermuda in search of religious freedom. They became shipwrecked near Preachers Cave, and named their prize “Eleuthera“, the Greek word for freedom. These pilgrims were later known as the “Eleutheran Adventurers”, making Cupid’s Cay the first settlement in the Bahamas.

TODAY

Eleuthera consists of 100 miles of pink sand beaches on the Atlantic coast and white sand beaches on the Caribbean side. You can enjoy both diving and snorkeling in the turquoise waters; our famous reefs are teeming with tropical fish and marine life! With Harbour Island and Spanish Wells close by, Eleuthera is a favorite destination among travelers seeking a truly authentic Bahamian experience.

In the 1960’s Eleuthera was a very popular destination: Arthur Vinning Davis (ARVIDA) founded the Rock Sound Club, and Juan Trippe, CEO of Pan American Airlines, once owned the Cotton Bay Club. For many years the British Royal Family also made Eleuthera their choice for family vacations.

GOVERNOR’S HARBOUR

Governor’s Harbour is the capital of Eleuthera; it sits on a hill that boasts one of the most breathtaking views in the Bahamas. Victorian homes near the water’s edge recall the settlement’s Loyalist heritage; some of them are more than 150 years old! Other historic landmarks include: the Methodist Church and St. Patrick’s Anglican Church, both believed to be at least 170 years old, the first Bahamian Parliament building from 1878, and the site of the first US Consulate General in July 1789. Be sure to visit Haynes Library, opened in 1897, and our 125 year old double jail cell!

SETTLEMENTS

North of Governor’s Harbour is the tranquil settlement of James Cistern. It is famous for excellent fishing off James Point and its unique species of four headed coconut trees. Above James Cistern is Hatchet Bay, well known for its caves. These caves are over a mile long, winding underground with stalagmites that gleam in the torchlight. Almost two miles north of James Cistern, be sure to visit “The Cliffs”. The rugged beauty of these rocks can take your breath away!

A little further north, you will drive over the Glass Window Bridge. Though the naturally formed bridge was destroyed by hurricanes, this man made version is a very popular tourist attraction. On one side you see the deep sapphire waters of the Atlantic Ocean slamming forcefully against the rocks. On the other side, you see the shallow turquoise waters of the Caribbean; the two bodies of water “kiss” under the narrow bridge.

Heading south of Governor’s Harbour, drive through the picturesque seaside settlements of Tarpum Bay and Rock Sound. Take time to explore one of Eleuthera’s best kept secrets: Lighthouse Beach near Bannerman Town. While in the south, be sure to visit Cape Eleuthera. It is considered one of the best dive sites in Eleuthera, complete with “the wall” and lots of sport fishing. Nearby you will also find the Island School of Princeton, New Jersey. This school is dedicated to tropical marine ecology, research and conservation.
HARBOUR ISLAND

Take a five minute water taxi ride from North Eleuthera to this charming settlement affectionately known as “Briland” among Bahamians. Dunmore Town on Harbour Island is reminiscent of Loyalist history with its colonial houses and white picket fences. Some of these 18th century buildings have been restored in a Bahamian Brigadoon setting. Visit Titus Hole, a cave with an open mouth that overlooks the harbour; it is said to be the first jail of Harbour Island. This three mile island and its settlements are best explored by golf cart rental or bikes.

SPANISH WELLS

Take a short ferry ride from Jean’s Bay, North Eleuthera to Spanish Wells. Named as a result of sailors coming ashore from galleons to fill their casks with fresh water, Spanish Wells is another quaint settlement with brightly painted houses and picket fences. It is known as the fishing capital of the Bahamas, and the locals are renowned for their seamanship.

In addition to fishing, great dive sites are available; divers can enjoy exploring a sunken train wreck! Another popular tourist attraction is Preacher’s Cave near Spanish Wells. The Eleutheran Adventurers took refuge in this subterranean cave and held religious services inside. The citizens of Spanish Wells are direct descendants of the original Eleutheran Adventurers and British Loyalists that shipwrecked at Preacher’s Cave!

Eleuthera's climate is very comfortable, with daytime temperatures in the winter in the mid 70's and very rarely lower that 68F to 72F at night, and in the summer the average daytime temperature can get as warm as 88F, with night time temperatures in the high 70's. During the summer months we always get the easterly trade winds that cool Eleuthera....which means that no matter what time of the year you come here shorts is the dress code......

Always at the end of the day it is relaxing to just sit down and enjoy a cold drink.....

If you need some extra cooling off just jump into the ocean for a nice and cool dip.....here I am in our own beach....happy...

“Being happy doesn't mean that everything is perfect. It means that you've decided to look beyond the imperfections.”

 until next time

Enjoy yourself. It's later than you think.

 Today has been a very physical day in the sense that we have done a lot of work on the outside.  We have pressured cleaned the outside ceilings, pulled weeds and cleared up a few of our lots.  Very tiring but overall satisfying and a great workout.  Needless to say we are all tanned and glowing with color. 

After all of this work we needed a little pampering...I was in a craving mood for ice-cream....Haagen Daz was calling me.  Not a problem.  To Sky Beach we went.  Was a good time as any to celebrate for a job well done.  Arvid and I have a tendency to celebrate just because...does not have to be a special  occasion we just make the occasion special.

After that we just went for a drive and enjoyed the sunset......totally relaxing.....

Whatever you desire Eleuthera has it all….spectacular beaches, great surf, tranquil coves, lush green forests, quaint historical settlements, and a relaxed carefree atmosphere.

You can do it all or do absolutely nothing.

Use caution when visiting this idyllic island retreat: You might never be able to wear a (business) suit again.

Enjoy your freedom!!!


Learn to enjoy every minute of your life. Be happy now. Don’t wait for something outside of yourself to make you happy in the future. Think how really precious is the time you have to spend, whether it’s at work or with your family.....

until next time....

“I love her and that’s the beginning of everything.”

Island woman, island woman

Making me forget who I am

Island woman, island woman

Making me forget who I am

These are the words to a very popular song...one of my favorites and at the same time these are the words Arvid says to me when we are here in Eleuthera.

Arvid is a very romantic man...something I find very unsual in most men (feel free to correct me if I a wrong).  He remembers all the dates that are special to us.  Never forgets our anniversary, my birthday and most important has never forgotten Brutus' coming into or lives nor his birthday.  We have both been fortunate to have found each other.  Life has given us a second chance and we are making the most of it....every day!!!

When I first met Arvid the first thing that struck me was his lack of warmth more like he's holding back, not towards me but in general.  Don't get me wrong this was just because I was comparing him to the way I am.  I grew up surrounded by people who loved to show their feelings, loved to touch, hug and kiss in general not afraid to express what they feel...same as him but in my case we heard the words "I love you" from our parents and other loved ones all the time.  I know he did also because his parents are very kind and warm.  We also always had hugs from everyone around us and we loved giving and receiving these tokens of affection.

For me this was normal as I would think for most people also.....but in Arvid's case it wasn't.  He was not used to or not comfortable with being touched. Not sure why because there is a lot of that going on in his family.   When he first met my parents and my sisters (I have 4)....they hugged him and it has never stopped.  He was not sure what to do.  Now when he meets them there is no hesitation he will just go up to them and give them all a hug and even a kiss.  I also see this when he is with his family.  Much more hugs and warmth going around for everyone.

This may sound unsual to you but believe me it took him a while before he was able to freely give and receive hugs.  I will say that my influence and that of my family has made Arvid a much warmer, open and more relaxed person.

I jokingly always like to remind him that since I came into his life he has learnt to live more, to enjoy the little things that life has to offer and to take the time to appreciate it.  He has always been a workaholic and he still is to a certain degree but now we take time just for ourselves.  We do the things we want to do now and do not put it aside for one day in the future......we do not know what the future will hold so we enjoy today....it is now he who is always wanting to do more and more.....seems like he is catching up for the things he did not do before.......of course I am loving every moment of it.

I know that I have brought happiness into Arvid's life...just like he has brought to mine.  When I met him all he ever did was work and work.  Not enought time for fun and play.  I have always been fortunate to have enjoyed everything I have done.  I have made mistakes, I have seen tragedy upfront and close and I have bounced back....but I enjoyed every moment ......everyone that came into my life has been special and in their own way has taught me a little more about myself......I consider myself a lucky person.

Aside from me (ha!ha!), Arvid's other passion in life is Real Estate (of course there is Brutus and family as well)......he lives and breathes it every moment of everyday.  He is most happy and most comfortable talking Real Estate...and he is GOOD!! at it. 
It is with this in mind that we have invested quite a lot in the Island of Eleuthera.....a decision we do not regret.  Together we make an unbeatable team......and yes I am not shy to say it.

We own quite a few properties (vacant land) and a house in different parts of the island....and we have also sold quite a few.......both here in the USA and in parts of Europe.

We have oceanfront, beachfront, lakefront, lakeview and some interior lots.  In total we have a little over 100 lots and a house.  This is me infront of the lake lots...called Lakeview Estates.

http://www.arvidrealtyservices.com/

Clicking on this link will guide you to our website where you can view additional information on these properties.   Lakeview is a huge saltwater lake with high and low tide connected to the ocean underground.

Arvid and I have taken a boat out there a few times and we saw so many beautiful fish and turtles.  Many others also enjoy fishing in the lake and water activities.

All of these pictures were taken from our lots...be it the lake front lot or the beachfront lot  (where Arvid is walking and me laying)

We are finally settled in Eleuthera.  This is our 2nd home and we are really enjoying it.  While here we are at the same time taking care of business and promoting the sales of our lots......

Buying real estate in any country is a challenge. One must thoroughly investigate the legalities, and the overall general safety of doing so. The Bahamas, and Eleuthera in particular, has long been a safe, secure place to do so. Back in 1992, the government changed the laws to encourage more investment in Bahamian lands by foreigners, and, since then, many foreign investers have come to Eleuthera and benefitted for a variety of reasons:

1) Safe: low crime, especially in Out Islands, like Eleuthera

      2) Good infrastructure: roads, health facilities, restaurants, monetary system, banks

3) Taxes: low taxes, no capital gains tax

4) Good attitude of government toward foreign investments

Like in any country, one should hire a local attorney when buying any real estate, especially in a foreign country, and ONLY buy land that has title.

  "Life is short, don't waste time worrying about what people think of you. Hold on to the ones that care, in the end they will be the only ones there."

until next time