The Shining (Photo Courtesy of www.ManILoveFilms.com
Last night, I felt like reading a fiction book. I picked up The Three Weissmans of Westport and read it in almost one sitting. I wanted something breezy and am a sucker for anything inspired by Jane Austen (except for Pride and Prejudice and Zombies: The Graphic Novel. Not my cup of tea).
My interest was piqued when two sisters who called themselves “home sitters” were introduced to the story. No real spoilers here ~ let’s just say that they didn’t exactly make us caretakers / house and pet sitters proud. As I contemplated this, other books and films featuring “our kind” came to mind, and I pondered the generalizations.
So, out of curiosity, what is the first thought that comes to mind when you think of people who do what we do? Does a certain character from a book or film come to mind, or someone you know personally? If so, please leave a comment. If not, please leave a comment. Thanks!
Valynne
I love Jane Austen and I own PP and Zombies but haven’t read it yet. 🙂 Even though I’ve house-sat and consider myself respectful, courteous, conscientious – those aren’t the first things that come to my mind when thinking of ‘house sitters’. Which is weird…right? It might be because the general public has so little acquaintance with house-sitters so it’s easier to have far-fetched generalizations that aren’t questioned. Many people, like my Dad, would never pay or leave a stranger to watch their home – he would however allow a neighbor to look in on it. The people who are using your awesome kind of care taking, I think have an adventurous spirit to begin with. Okay…I think I’ve rambled too much and not sure if I stayed on point. 😉
It seems like “sitting” was more respected when I went from house to house as a twenty-something in the early nineties than it is now, and I am not quite sure why that would be (is it cultural shift? Economy-based?). Caring for people’s properties and pets is a huge responsibility. I took it all very seriously (just like we do now) and was treated like gold by almost all of the homeowners upon their return. I am relieved to say that Paul and I have gotten really good at reading potential clients and knowing when to say “we would love to!” versus “no way, no how” : )
Well…. you and Paul are the only house sitters I know so what comes to mind are two adventurous, fun, caring, loving and extremely interesting people who have a zest for living. Love you. I’ll call soon. xo
I love you too Joyce and think about you so much lately. You know who to contact when your book gets on the bestseller list and you are needing a nice little holiday somewhere tropical, right?! XOX
PS Paul can watch the cottage…I’m going with you! Tee Hee!