On Off On Off On Off

We have long known that everything is "on loan" and that nothing is permanent, and just when you think you can count on something -- things shift and/or shit happens. The last three months have proven those axioms to be 100% true.

• ON -First you THINK you have house insurance, including fire and OFF - find out you don't

• ON - You THINK you've planned out your retirement pretty well, then - OFF - your house burns down.

• ON - You THINK you have access to FEMA but find out - OFF -you don't --- because you have not received a denial from your insurance company which then takes 60 days and the cost of an attorney just to find out you are denied -- after 80 days of the loss of your home and 60 days after you filed with insurance

• ON - you THINK you might be able to apply for SBA loan - OFF - but because your income level is low, you don't because you can't replay the loan.

• ON - You THINK you can apply for Food Stamps -- and finally do, but OFF - it takes 2 months to process because you "have insurance" but have not received a denial.

• ON - YOU finally find out that FEMA has offered you grant money OFF -  but you then get a DENIAL for any assistance with housing. 

• Then, a week later, ON (again) you do have rental assistance but OFF -  finding a small partially furnished rental is nearly impossible because no one wants three adorable corgi dogs

• ON - We have been so lucky to find a temporary place for three months with gracious folks and,  OFF -- it is really time to take the "next step."

• ON - You THINK you've lined up back-up and then find out NOPE, OFF -  that just fell through too.

We expect that life offers a lot of "not knows" -- but it has been unnecessary compounded by waiting over 60 days to even receive an answer from our (supposedly biggest and best) insurance company in the world -- who somehow manages to insure rocket ships, football players, space stations and Kim Cardiashian's butt.

If this ain't a lesson for a couple of Punatics who are used to going with the flow -- don't know what is. We will adjust, adapt and press on looking for the next "diamond" opportunity; that's what we do. And, we are not alone in this predicament -- there are others -- many others. If you happen to know if a rental (partially furnished would help) with a fenced yard for really outstanding corgi dogs, and a shop for Phil to earn some money from his wood art (selling at One Gallery in Hilo) please give us full contact information. (We cannot reply to "comments" leave email or phone)  MAHALO