43 Already? And, A New Life

Tomorrow I turn 43 years young. This is my first official ‘update’ for the blog’s “Now” page.

• I recently moved to the Philippines from the island of Crete in Greece, where I spent a year enjoying nature and exploring a romantic relationship.
• Why did I move? A combination of needing to exit the EU due to a visa issue and… the beautiful but heart-crushing end to the relationship.
• I am a bit emotionally torn being here on the island of Bohol in the Philippines. Here I am, in a new land, while also deeply reflecting on my past relationship experience, recognizing both the successes and teachable failures.
• Still, nothing was lost, as there was a deep acknowledgment of the beauty shared. In that short year together, it was not without purpose. She and I both received tremendous support, despite the obvious differences from the beginning that had us both questioning if this could really work.
• It worked in its own beautiful way, just not the way I had… romantically hoped for.
• I have rented a house here on the island of Bohol for 3 months. I will relax, explore, and be open to the possibility of a long-term stay here.
• This place is wild. The tropical weather reminds me of my time living in Hawaii, which I very much enjoy. The abject poverty, though, is quite a sight to behold. My heart is both inspired and softened as I connect with and listen to the locals. Hearing their stories of struggle, while also smiling with high hopes, really puts into perspective any ‘problems’ I think I have.
• I’m exploring the idea of expanding on my weekly inSight Letter (Monday Newsletter) and creating a subscription-based Daily inSight Letter. Inspired by the feedback I have received from people expressing how much they enjoy my weekly email and hoping there was more they could do to support me. Information coming soon, if I decide to move forward. I will announce it in my Monday email.