August was full of birthday celebrations and family visiting but this island is hot and crowded in August so I’m looking forward to cooler days and fewer crowds. As visitors, we have always come to Crete in either May or September, the weather is better- cooler nights and the crowds have thinned a bit. Next year we have discussed leaving Crete for the majority of August- most locals do this and now I can see why.

Daily life is going well. I have driven both with Jeff and on my own. The other day I went and picked up my friend and we went on a Forest hike in Fourni, above Archanes, a cute village in the hills about 30 minutes outside of Heraklion. I even did some of those tiny village roads where you find yourself saying “Please no cars, please no cars” so you don’t have to reverse so 2 cars can fit. My friend Sabine moved here 2 years ago and understood the stress and was a good navigator. We both agreed our desire for freedom overrode our fears, so we pushed ourselves to drive.

Earlier in the week Jeff and I headed to Marguarites, a village known for its pottery and ceramics. I highly recommend a stop here if you are nearby. It’s a great place to buy authentic gifts or home decor. Most of the shops are run by artists, and you can find some great pieces. We got some things for the house and had a great lunch overlooking the olive groves. We had a little visitor who was a bit too friendly for my liking but Jeff was happy.

On my birthday, we visited Gouves Animal Shelter. Stray animals are a big issue on the island and many shelters do their best to help. We brought leashes, treats and toys for the pups and met several volunteers. One guy was from the US, he and his girlfriend took a gap year and came to Crete to volunteer. I thought it was such a cool idea, living expenses as cheap as they are here making this really possible for people. They could probably find an apartment for $400, hit the beach after work, and eat cheap-what an awesome way to spend several months and do some good. After speaking with the head volunteer, we agreed we would start coming regularly in the fall once the students were gone, they would need the help. Personally, I would rather go when it’s cooler weather anyway.

So, as I head into September, things are going well. I have a nail appointment Saturday at a recommended place- thank you Jana. I have my girls coming and I can’t wait to show them my new home. I was stressing to find the best places to take them, the bluest water, the best views. Jeff calmy reminded me that this place is easy to love and in my new favorite quote he said- “Let the island show itself off” so that’s what I will do.

Coffee Time on my porch