life: examined is a weekly invitation to get curious—a collection of ideas, and thoughts about living a creative, intentional life—written from my perch in Portugal.
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Hello and welcome to life: examined. Several new subscribers have joined us—whether you're a new or long-time reader, I'm glad you're here.
There's a saying in Portugal that, translated into English, goes something like this: There are two seasons in Portugal, winter, and summer. I find it difficult to argue with this phrase.
Winter was here a minute ago, then spring started, only to be replaced within a few weeks by summer and her trademark sunshine and warmth. The same goes for autumn; just when I get into my favorite season's groove, she's pushed out in haste by winter's dampness and gloom.
In truth, the seasons are not as dramatic as the cliché suggests, at least in Setúbal, but who am I to dissuade others from believing it?
Big News
I'm writing to you from the corner of my combo living-dining room where my table and four chairs used to be.
Let me clarify: I'm writing from my FORMER living-dining room as I've sold my apartment, a good bit of furniture, and, with luck and whatever else it takes to make Portuguese bureaucracy work, I will be signing the escritura (deed) for my new-to-me apartment today (finger's crossed).
If you’re keeping score, this will be move #4 in three and a half years. And for those of you who asked around and tried to decipher my cryptic hints from the past few issues of life: examined, now you know.
Note: I’m NOT leaving Setúbal—I'll be a few minutes from my former apartment. This city, this neighborhood, and the people in it, are my chosen home and family.
I'm downsizing, once again, as I’m compelled to do.
Like water seeking its level, I’ve drifted back to one-bedroom living. There are evident pros and distinct cons with moving away from this apartment and to the new one, the likes of which will reveal themselves more clearly once I move and get acclimated, but I’m ready to discover what awaits.
Saying Good-Bye
I love the apartment I'm in; it wasn't an easy decision to sell. I hope the new owner loves it even half as much as I do.
One thing I know: this flat was purchased by a good person who's an excellent fit for this place. That's the coolest thing. And maybe the new owner will let me visit these gorgeous wood floors from time to time :)
Along with changes in housing, I'll be making some tweaks to my businesses, both in what I offer and how I run them.
Conducting Move to Portugal sessions has been rewarding.
Moderately financially rewarding, yes, but I don't count on the sessions to pay my bills as that income fluctuates each month. The sessions are rewarding primarily by helping others and the gratitude they have for this service.
I've met some lovely people via Move to Portugal sessions. Several clients have become friends and neighbors.
What started as a lark, a dabble, has become a fulfilling activity that nets a bit of grocery money and supports others in realizing their dream to move to Portugal.
I call that a success. But with success comes fatigue—at least it always has for me, so it's time I pull back and retool how I run this program.
I'm saying goodbye to Move to Portugal sessions, but just for the summer.
I have 5 spots open through mid-June assuming I have internet service, then I'm on a break until September (email me if you want one of the remaining sessions—first-come, first-served).
What will Move to Portugal sessions look like when I return? Good question.
I'll probably focus on small group sessions vs. individual sessions. My rates for individual sessions, if I continue them, will go up.
If you've already had a session or two with me, there will likely be a level of access that first-timers won't have (first-time sessions will probably be in the small group format).
I don't know exactly how the program will change (see my mantra: I know nothing), but I'm looking forward to the next iteration.
The Realization
I've let my calendar rule my life rather than taking charge of my calendar.
This goes back to control, with which we all have a tenuous relationship. Still, it's become clear that I've been living like a pachinko ball, bouncing around each day in-between scheduled sessions and other time-bound activities.
I need a reset in all things, a tabula rasa, to do things with joy and to the best of my ability and energy. I've allowed the calendar to deplete me (once again) and that’s left little room for fun and lightheartedness.
So, I let go.
I let go of hosting the twice-monthly coffee club, permanently, and now Move to Portugal sessions for the summer. That goes for Bossy Tours, too.
Maybe I'll actually do some slow travel and pursue other interests that I keep shelving for work's sake and that always-elusive later date. The time is now—I came to Portugal for many reasons, but to work the way I was working in the States is not one of them.
What am I excited about?
I'm looking forward to continuing my weekly writing through life: examined and possibly starting some new writing projects. Collaging, making zines, and writing poetry are at the top of the list, as are language learning and perhaps dipping my toes back into yoga training via continuing education that emphasizes accessibility and yoga for all bodies.
Stay tuned, and we'll find out where the next few months lead me!
Does this inspire you to cut something from your weekly schedule? If so, do tell in the comments section.
Favorite Portuguese to English Auto-Translation of the Week:
The difficult thing is often to capture the perfect photograph. Oreo is a bitch who, although energetic, does not give up a good nap.
Bitch or not, who’d give up a good nap?!
My heartfelt thanks to Lisa, Hilary, Alex, Leil, Harriet, Siglia, Elaine, Rich, and Monique for supporting life: examined through Buy Me a Coffee. I appreciate it!
Whether it’s a coffee, a comment, a like, or a share—I’m grateful for your support.
Until next time—> stay curious, eat your veggies, and thank you for reading life: examined
Say hello to me on Instagram. While you’re there, check out my favorite rescue pigeon, Cricket.
If I were you, I’d put out a life: examined article once a fortnight. These weeks whiz by for everyone anyway.
Then go explore a new city/town in Spain and Italy while enjoying that or pursuing other writings.
Exciting news. Self reflection and self care as top priorities make a winning strategy. Congratulations.