You've mentioned the lack of community several times while living in Eugene. I spent 25 years in Seattle and traveled the PNW extensively on my motorcycles. Always found it uber difficult to connect with people, and the ones I did, we're all from the midwest or east coast! My ex-wife from Philly was always saying WTF.
The PNW is a very special place, one of the most beautiful areas on the planet, but between (some) chilly folks, the long dreary gray winters, and outrageous house prices, I high-tailed out of there in 2018.
Me and my Thai wife are now happily based in sunny Denver (but dry as sandpaper). A much better home for 30% less. We now spend a few months a winter in Thailand, and other warm
countries. Two of our favorite countries are Laos and Zambia. It's worked out great. We do plan on being expats when we get a little older, purely for the adventure. Not sure yet where.
So enjoy the adventure, and being wholly uncomfortable, that's what life should be about, at least for some people.
I'm happy for you, Julia, and I have no doubt you're doing the right thing for you. I sold my wonderful house at Lake Huron's remote shore two years ago and as much as I loved it, I love my new life even more. I live in an apartment in a town where there are box stores and fast foods and galleries and marinas and I worried that it would be too much muchness, but it isn't. It's perfect for me. And that's all that counts. What's good for me. ❤️
Julia Hubbel, I want to wish you the very best on this adventure! When I first began reading your Substack essays (nothing ever seemed too brief or unremarkable) I was blown away by your adventures. One continent then the next. Mountains to climb!
Did you inspire me? Yes, and not to the extent of tackling challenges as you have. I’ve lived 77 years and have come to see women as stronger and smarter than many men. I don’t know if you will, or can, continue to post on Substack from your new home. Or have the interest for that matter. Many blessings.
You are truly inspirational and speak to my soul. Wishing I had found your writings earlier, I am eagerly anticipating reading any and all of your new experiences. Sending you warm wishes for fulfillment and joy!
Congratulations Julia, The kind of adventure you seek, awaits you. My favorite part of living as an expat is the daily connections made with other interesting humans. As you said, even discomfort is living adventure. And it's a different kind of discomfort than the kind we leave behind.
Thanks Anya. I might have had very different feelings about this had I never done this before, but I did live as an expat Down Under across three different countries for about four years. Loved it. Missed it. This time around the stakes are different, but the invitation is the same. I am drawn to a community I have built down there over the last two years, and frankly, can’t wait. I give up a silent forest for a VERY loud country but consider the trade a good one!
Beautiful food for thought!
You've mentioned the lack of community several times while living in Eugene. I spent 25 years in Seattle and traveled the PNW extensively on my motorcycles. Always found it uber difficult to connect with people, and the ones I did, we're all from the midwest or east coast! My ex-wife from Philly was always saying WTF.
The PNW is a very special place, one of the most beautiful areas on the planet, but between (some) chilly folks, the long dreary gray winters, and outrageous house prices, I high-tailed out of there in 2018.
Me and my Thai wife are now happily based in sunny Denver (but dry as sandpaper). A much better home for 30% less. We now spend a few months a winter in Thailand, and other warm
countries. Two of our favorite countries are Laos and Zambia. It's worked out great. We do plan on being expats when we get a little older, purely for the adventure. Not sure yet where.
So enjoy the adventure, and being wholly uncomfortable, that's what life should be about, at least for some people.
Good luck Julia. I am grateful that you have continued to write in the midst of getting ready to relocate. I can't wait to read about your adventures.
Thanks for reminding me about the need to embrace discomfort!
I'm happy for you, Julia, and I have no doubt you're doing the right thing for you. I sold my wonderful house at Lake Huron's remote shore two years ago and as much as I loved it, I love my new life even more. I live in an apartment in a town where there are box stores and fast foods and galleries and marinas and I worried that it would be too much muchness, but it isn't. It's perfect for me. And that's all that counts. What's good for me. ❤️
And that is all that matters. I am happy that you appear to be doing well!
Julia Hubbel, I want to wish you the very best on this adventure! When I first began reading your Substack essays (nothing ever seemed too brief or unremarkable) I was blown away by your adventures. One continent then the next. Mountains to climb!
Did you inspire me? Yes, and not to the extent of tackling challenges as you have. I’ve lived 77 years and have come to see women as stronger and smarter than many men. I don’t know if you will, or can, continue to post on Substack from your new home. Or have the interest for that matter. Many blessings.
Thanks Gary. I hope to have much more to write about!
Looking forward, Julia!
‘What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?’ - Mary Oliver
You, Julia, it seems live by this motto and don’t stay stuck in any pitcher plant! Cheers to your next journey
Marlo, can't wait to read about your journey here!
I'm so glad you're back to feeling unencumbered. You're able to capture in words the feeling of flying.
Mika is in her crate and I am about to board. Whatever is coming it starts today.
You are truly inspirational and speak to my soul. Wishing I had found your writings earlier, I am eagerly anticipating reading any and all of your new experiences. Sending you warm wishes for fulfillment and joy!
Congratulations Julia, The kind of adventure you seek, awaits you. My favorite part of living as an expat is the daily connections made with other interesting humans. As you said, even discomfort is living adventure. And it's a different kind of discomfort than the kind we leave behind.
Thanks Anya. I might have had very different feelings about this had I never done this before, but I did live as an expat Down Under across three different countries for about four years. Loved it. Missed it. This time around the stakes are different, but the invitation is the same. I am drawn to a community I have built down there over the last two years, and frankly, can’t wait. I give up a silent forest for a VERY loud country but consider the trade a good one!