Recently retired, I've worked in non-profit management and development for many years after brief stints as an opera singer and higher education administrator. My wife Kim and I are now looking for opportunities to explore the country/world located near major cultural centers to access performing/visual arts scene. In addition to our family dogs (and cats) we have had over the years, I've had the great fortune to have been able to meet many new canine and feline friends over the last 3-4 years through our house and petsitting opportunities. We've become quite familiar with numerous breeds and ages of dogs and cats and have really loved getting to know and engaging each one of them. In addition to our mutual passion for travel, we enjoy landscaping and gardening and welcome the opportunity to do whatever might be required to maintain/improve a home during our stay. Having recently completely renovating the family cottage from a seasonal beachhouse to a year-round residence including plumbing, electrical, carpentry, painting, flooring and restoring a 50 year old redwood hottub back to working condition, I've acquired many skills I had heretofore thought would be impossible for me to do. We have owned numerous homes ranging from 4600 square feet to 800 square feet each with its own challenges which we maintained ourselves inside and out. My wife Kim is an excellent cook and enjoys experimenting with new recipes and foods. Both of us are avid outdoors people, dedicated walkers/hikers and experienced sailor/sailboat owners. Additionally, we enjoy nordic and alpine skiing, canoeing, kayaking, tennis, golf and swimming. We would like to have an opportunity to speak with you directly so you will be able to get to know us better by , or phone. References available at your request.