I had an interesting experience the other day. Someone who has followed my blog for a while, and who has seen me out and about said she was nervous about approaching me to say hi, but she finally got her courage up and came over.
It always surprises me to hear that I am seen as some sort of celebrity because of my blog. I don’t feel at all out of the ordinary. I enjoy writing and I just write about what is going on, what interests me, or what catches my eye. I’m always surprised that people know me, or know things about me because I don’t think about the blog when I’m out.
But, I really appreciate knowing that people find the blog interesting and helpful. I forget how I latched on to any information about Panama before moving here, and I never thought about becoming one of those sources of information. I started out because a blog is an easy way to keep family and friends updated but since I’m living in Panama now, it is also a way to see life here through my eyes. I worry sometimes that people will come here because of my happy experience and find it doesn’t work for them, but so far I haven’t heard about that happening. Keep in mind though that everyone’s experience is unique and success is based on many factors, so do your own homework.
I get many emails and comments, and if you take the time to write I appreciate that and will respond. If I don’t please poke me because it’s an oversight. I have also met many people in person through the blog, many of whom have become personal friends. I am not shy and I have no problem talking with people I don’t know so if you see me, please feel free to say hello.
The Panama Adventure 
Blogging is interesting. As you know I have a couple of blogs and Facebook groups and it never ceases to amaze me who tunes in. My shantyboat group has 797 members and more ask to join every day. I have two blogs and have a thingy that shows where people who check in on it come from and they’re from all over the world. I even have a couple from MONGOLIA of all places!!!
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I know what you mean! I wonder who those people are from far off places. I also don’t think about people living here since they have their own first hand information on what it is like here.
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Kris,
I’ve been in and around Panama for about 3 years now . And loving it, by the way.
I belong and subscribe to many blogs and sites about Panama. On my first trip here I contacted you when I arrived in David for info on (cheap) accommodations. I will always remember your response. Not only did you immediately help me, you jumped on your bicycle, met me at McDonald’s and escorted me to the accommodations you recommended. Thanks for your friendly response . I Enjoy your blog very much. Keep it up! Celebrity, no……Friend, absolutely!
Cheers!
Kim
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Oh my, I remember that! I just happened to be out and about on my bike so things just came together. I’m so glad to hear things are working out for you and you are happy in Panama 🙂
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I also forget when I’m in the US and I get a lot of funny looks by bring friendly to people. Especially walking around our neighborhood. People are very suspicious and fearful if you are friendly. I prefer here where everyone acknowledges you with a greeting.
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I know, but it feels so strange not to greet anyone. It feels rude almost. I definitely prefer it here too!
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Hola Kris,
We enjoy your blog thoroughly, Kris. Since Nena isn’t a computer person, I often read the latest entry to Nena over our morning coffee. You have her in stitches sometimes and it always generates memories for us of past trips to David to visit her tias y primas.
Your ability to handle everything Panama can toss at you is remarkable and should be a textbook lesson for anyone thinking of making Panama a home. You handle the “TIP” stuff just like most Panamanians and just keep going forward.
One note from Nena: she worries about you every time she hears about your bicycling around David. I do too. We know you have ridden everywhere and for years, but we also know the David traffic. So, please be careful?
jim and nena
fort worth, david, boquete.
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The TIP stuff is what makes this whole experience so interesting! It’s occasionally a lesson in patience but most important, a lesson in seeing other ways. Just because we do something in the US a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the only way, or the best way.
Thanks for your concern for my safety. I have scoped out routes with the least traffic, I have bright yellow bags on the back of the bike, and I wear one of those neon yellow shirts like you see on construction workers and road crew people. So far, knock on Wood, everyone has been very considerate. I think drivers here are much more used to sharing the road with bikes, pedestrians, dogs, cows, and other surprises.
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Well, I’m certainly glad I found you and talked to you when I came to Panama – I have a new friend! And an added bonus of new live music gigs to attend!
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Me too! We had such a good time, and I’m looking forward to when you can return.
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Hello
I stumbled across your blog today and have enjoyed it very much! My husband and I are both nurses and are thinking of early retirement and moving to Panama. Our neighbors just moved to Boquete and we are wanting to take a trip to the area and visit. You blog has been very helpful with some information that we have been trying to find. The cost of living report was a great start. I will keep following and looking for ward to more stories.
Brenda Whitmore
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Thank you 😊 I’m so glad your going have found the blog interesting and helpful. Best of luck in your retirement and future living plans.
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Love your blog Kris – follow the posts and comments through email even when I have little time and energy to read it in its entirety on the blog proper. You’re my one biggest draw to Panama – and if I ever get off the ground and move there, yes, it will be because your writing drew me in.
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Are they still trying to kill you at work? 😡 I hope you make it here and are as happy as we are! Meanwhile, hang in there.
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Yes they are – not quite so unsettled as last year, but the wheels keep on grinding so much so that I have no time to stop and collect my thoughts and decide what to do about it (or so I tell myself). Amorphous plans starting to come together but they’re currently all over the place. Still hanging!
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Ugh. Ok, keep hanging, and keep thinking. Life is short and to be enjoyed.
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So true – and it goes by so fast!
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