Paul Siskin

Pirates of the Mediterranean

Back from my vacation; had a great time. Thanks for asking! Yachting was different when I was a child. I have such fond memories of leisurely motoring on the seas. Mummy and Deddy dressed in their yachting attire and the crew so pristine in their starched white uniforms. Oh sorry, I was thinking of someone else’s history, not mine. But if that had been my memory, it is quite different than my most recent experience at sea; not the same, but still fabulous. My clients had generously invited me aboard their motor yacht which was docked in Marbella, Spain. Its nice not having any real worries about terrorists on the plane, however pirates are another matter. The good thing is they are so much easier to spot. First sighting of a skull and cross-bone flag and I would have been out of there. Luckily the voyage was without incident and I returned safely. Pirates or not, if there is another invitation forthcoming…I’ll see you upon my return.

I spoke to contractor Mitch who had good news and bad news about Brokeback Manor. Good news: all the windows and doors have been delivered and are on site. Bad news: it had rained so much he wasn’t able to do any sandblasting so they are all there rusted and leaning against the house. Weather permitting, he should have them done by next week. My hostess on the boat told me that one of their biggest regrets in building their home was that they used all metal doors. Even forgetting about the heat loss, they have spent a small fortune replacing the double glazed windows that keep fogging up on the inside! I know you are sick of hearing about the windows so not another word until they are installed. And Laura Bohn, please no “I told you so.”

I just heard from a local realtor that I will have new neighbors. A same-sex couple has purchased the land next to mine. Brokeback Mountain must have one of the highest concentrations of gay couples. My unique distinction is that I’m not a couple (unless you consider Biggy and I an item, but please don’t!) I’m not sure of the new neighbors’ scheduling, but they will probably be starting just about the time I move in. How nice to go to the country and relax with the gentle sounds of construction. Timing is everything!

Posted by Paul Siskin on June 17, 2009 | Comments (0)