Finding the Balance

We’ve put in serious effort to make Portugal happen, learning about residency, researching the best areas to buy, and assembling a solid team: a realtor, a Portuguese lawyer, a mortgage broker, and a currency broker.

Morning sunrise, in the Canyons of the Ancients

Photo shot in Canyons of the Ancients, near Cortez, CO

Staying sane in insane times.

If you have good thoughts, they will shine out of your face like sunbeams, and you will always look lovely. —Roald Dahl

I know one thing for sure: I need to stay sane and focused. Lately, I’ve felt completely overwhelmed by the state of our country. While I’m not here to talk politics, I know I’m not alone in feeling this way.

I recently read Surviving Trump: How to Remain Calm and Carry On by psychiatrist John Kruse, MD, PhD. He talks about understanding who the president is, balancing media consumption, and having a creative outlet to manage the stress. It hit home.

This blog is about retiring, traveling, and creating your dream life, but let’s be real—stress can make it hard to stay focused and find joy. I also turn to Let Them by Mel Robbins, which reinforces something important: we control what we consume, who we spend time with, and what we choose to believe. No one else has that power.

I’ve faced plenty of challenges in life, and every time, I’ve adapted. This time is no different. Knowing I can make my life work—no matter what’s happening around me—keeps me grounded.

Another way I stay balanced? I focus on what’s working. As Mel Robbins says, look for the hearts—find the good, the wins, the things that keep you going. Every day, I say out loud, “Today is a great day!” It sets the tone.

Speaking of wins, I have my third and final job interview this Wednesday. Paul has a job. We’re still working toward buying a second home in Portugal. We’re making progress, we’re healthy, and good friends surround us. Life is moving forward.

We’ve put in serious effort to make Portugal happen, learning about residency, researching the best areas to buy, and assembling a solid team: a realtor, a Portuguese lawyer, a mortgage broker, and a currency broker. We’re even setting up a Portuguese bank account. I’m still taking Portuguese classes, showing up, and building the life we want.

Yes, I get overwhelmed, but I can manage it, and so can you. You can keep your dreams in sharp focus. Let your passions fuel your life. More than anything, this is a way to gain further resolve. Today is a great day.