Expat host seeks to return the service!

About this sitter

I am a retired single low-key guy, non-smoker, no drugs, extremely rare alcohol drinker. I am a current homeowner in Panama, having expatriated from 35 years as homeowner in Colorado (Denver, Manitou Springs), including historic preservation, restoration, and remodeling of all homes owned (the oldest being an 1884 Denver mansion). So I know all about caring for and living in an older home, and finding and resolving problems before they become bigger. I make annual return trips to Colorado for medical checkups and to visit friends and family, so am happy to help care for your home (while someone else cares for mine in Panama!) wherever you may be!
I was a devoted cat owner for 19 years, but it was a sucker-punch to the gut when he died. I don't think Panama is a good place for pets, given the heat, bugs, and diseases, and so many pets need so many drugs and prophylactic medicines just to survive here, so I have decided to not have a pet here; instead, I volunteer with a local pet spay/neuter clinic.

Why they want to house sit

Either this is my annual pilgrimage to Colorado, or I'm scratching my travel itch for more explorations abroad. I've visited over 20 countries in my life, on horseback, on foot, on bicycle, in a car, on a cruise ship; you name it, I'll try it! And I've also lived abroad (before expatriating to Panama), so I love immersing myself in the local community, to get a 'boots on the ground' experience. All-inclusive, and 'little America' destinations are NOT on my bucket list. But you will allow me to feed that hunger for immersion in another country, meeting neighbors, making new friends, and becoming part of your local community. I do not want to be a hermit in your home.

Their experience

For decades, I have cared for neighbors' (and former neighbors') homes and pets while living in Colorado, and when visiting, including staying in their homes. The latest was a 2 week sit in the summer of 2024. All my past experience was with friends, not through MMH; this represents my initiative to ramp up my globe trotting, doing what I love.

What can they bring to the assignment

I'm happy to photo-document your pet's life during your absence, and SMS or WhatsApp them to you! Communication with you is key, as much (or as little!) as you need to feel comfortable leaving your pets and home in my care.
As a current (and long term) homeowner, I know the importance of using a home with care. I also can recognize the symptoms of problems. I'm handy with tools for light repairs -- I wouldn't want to undertake on your behalf anything more than light repairs, e.g. changing a faucet washer or toilet flapper, but I could certainly alert you to bigger problems, and stabilize a situation until you bring in the big guns. I can do light yard work; I have no physical limitations, and indeed, as I am extremely athletic, I have more strength and flexibility than most other men my age (61 in May 2024).