While I was watching the howler monkeys blunder through the trees one day, I saw a mama reach out and grab a branch, stretching her body into a bridge for her baby to cross to the next tree. In a way, this blog is like that mama, forming a bridge for us to share our stories and stay in contact with friends and family at home, or wherever they may be.
Keeping this blog has been a learning process for us, and we want it to continue growing and developing. That’s why we’re contemplating improvements, as we sit on the veranda here in western Panama, sipping 59-cent Balboa beers (actually very good) in the late afternoon, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
We’ve already made a couple of tweaks.
- Many of our loyal readers ask, “Where are you now?” To find out, look in the top menu bar for “Where’s Kathryn?” In addition to our current location, it includes an historical list with links to past stories inspired by those places.
- You may have noticed that blog stories often lag behind where we actually are. Now, you can see photos and short descriptions much sooner on my Instagram and Facebook accounts. Just click on the icons at the very bottom left on my home page. (Many thanks to my daughter Liz for teaching me how to use Instagram over the Christmas holidays!) For Instagram, you don’t have to sign in to see the content. Just click on the link.
If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook, you’ll see more photos like these. (Same content is posted on both social media sites.)
As a side note, I must confess that Gilbert, our HelpX host, pointed out the toucan and both he and Bill have pointed out the hawk and many other creatures, since I’m terrible at spotting wildlife. We’re into our fourth week staying with Gilbert and helping him with gardening, woodworking, painting, varnishing, building and renovations projects.
We want to make other blog improvements and would love to hear from you in the comments section.
We are very grateful for all our loyal readers! When we’re far from home, knowing that we’re reaching people through our stories makes us happy. Keep on enjoying The Long Road Home!
I love what you are doing, Kathryn. Not only is your blog a must-read, but I make sure I do so when I have time to really settle into it. As for my favourite posts, I loved the one about the schist villages, and reading about you guys playing Dr. Doolittle as pet-sitters was fun too. I think you have great story instincts. Just go with that!
Thank you, Arlene! Coming from a communications professional, that means a lot to me.
Hi Kathryn, loving the blog, the pictures, the connection. All of the stories have been interesting and fun to read. I like the idea of travel tips and logistics. I also really like just hearing what you have found interesting. The food stories, the good Samaritans and of course the Harry Potter connection have been my favourites. Thanks for letting us travel with you through your computer. V
Thanks for your feedback, Vida. We’re going to be adding more practical tips etc.
Careful with those 59% beers. Better to stick with the 5.9% variety.
You scared me! I thought I’d made a typo! They are definitely closer to 5.9% than 59%, but still just 59 cents in Romero’s grocery store. They’re $1.25 in a restaurant.
Hi Kathryn
I like it just the way it is. I have enjoyed all of your stories.
Looking forward to the next one.
Odette
Thanks, Odette! I want to hear all about your Sri Lanka travels!!