Well… day two in paradise, and let’s just say paradise has seen better days! It turns out this “clean energy retreat” has actually been on a two-year retreat of its own — abandoned, sunbathing, and definitely not doing any chores. Marianthi’s online write-up may have been written in a slightly more optimistic universe!
Mike, the Greek volunteer who’s been here for three weeks, deserves a medal. Maybe a statue. Maybe a public holiday. He couldn’t believe what he walked into — and now I see why his eyebrows still haven’t come back down. Sadly he leaves on the 30th, just as a lady from Germany arrives to step into the chaos.
Marianthi herself is lovely, but between Crohn’s disease and severe arthritis, she’s not able to keep up with the work. She mentioned that some Workawayers only stay a week before disappearing… and honestly, I now fully understand their mysterious vanishing acts. Others lasted a month, so perhaps they achieved enlightenment or simply lost the will to pack.
The animals — bless them — are the bright spot. She really does feed all the strays, and the dogs and cats here are gorgeous souls… though some are sporting terrible matted coats. I’d honestly love to spend my time just working with them as was agreed before I came, instead of cleaning a property that’s no longer even destined to be a retreat. Apparently she’s planning to buy a new place higher up the mountain and we’re going to see it this weekend. (Fingers crossed it at least has four walls.)
And then… the kitchen. The food that comes out of it is delicious, truly. But the kitchen itself? Let’s just say it should come with a hazmat rating. It explains why we’re discouraged from ever going inside. I simply cannot stay if it isn’t cleaned — even if I end up rolling up my sleeves myself.
So for now, I’m taking each day as it comes. There’s a dog sanctuary just 21 km away that desperately needs help, and that may be where my heart — and sanity — lead me.
I do feel sad for Marianthi; she’s overwhelmed and really could use a caretaker. Mike even suggested it, but he’s got his fruit-picking work and isn’t staying on.
Let’s see where this little Greek adventure leads next… but one thing’s for sure: it won’t be boring!