It was fate. I had planned to stay six months in Italy after retiring, but couldn’t because I decided to retire during Covid 19. I even flew to New York for my internation flight. At check- in I was told to wait an extra day. The next day I was told I could go for 5 days. No thanks you. As with many things in my life I considered it a sign or opportunity for something else.

     I returned home to Charleston and considered alternatives. I had wanted to become fluent in a second language. Spanish was more practical than Italian for sure and my grandfather who was born in Sicily had his surname changed from Amatista to Amatisto going through immigration and was afraid to try and change it back. Amatista is Spanish for Amythist and Spain had ruled over Sicily for centuries. Spanish made sense and I wouldn’t have to fly to Europe.

     At first I was open to many latino countries. I determined most of South America was too far and my preference in central America was Costa Rica, but ultimately Mexico is even closer and I was interested in all I read about San Miguel and its climate of perpetual spring. I rented a flat with 3 bedrooms and 2 ½ baths for six weeks hoping for visitors and arranged lessons with a Spanish tutor. Eventhough, the first Spanish tutor didn’t work out’ the second one did and I still take lessons with her 5 years later. I loved the city and extended my stay another 4 weeks and we bought a home with the approval of my still working partner.

      Initially,  I had no intention to buy a house, but sometimes things fall into place. I obtained a pool membership at the Rosewood Hotel and would walk past this house for sale. Before buying I looked at two other listed houses, but decided on the house with the best bones. I had a vision of what it could be and a now or never attitude. I never have regretted it and look forward to spending the winters and summers here to escape the cold and heat of these seasons in Charleston, South Carolina.