* conveniences

 say what you'd like about the u.s.a., but my experience (traveling abroad) is that the u.s.a. has conveniences.

whether it's access to an endless variety of food, ease of highway travel, or reliable internet, etc., the u.s.a. (or maybe it's the known?) outclasses any of the other places that i've experienced.  it seems (to me) that everyone complains about their own government, systems and infrastructure...  but when i'm stranded in paradise with a flat tire and no-one to call, i'm trapped.

the beaches of northwest florida are as beautiful as any i've seen.  i can travel to places that might (at a glance) seem better.  my home (in north carolina) is perfectly situated for travel by car or plane.  the seasons are great, and i get out of there when it gets too cold.

people are friendly, wherever i go -- and their friendliness is directly proportional to mine.  i create my reality.  

how should i live out the rest of my life?  that is a good question.  a full-time job (in northwest florida) near a good veteran's administration clinic would be nice.  work in the spring & fall, rent my place out in the summer, repeat.

:)