If it helps, consider this post a Christmas letter from my family to yours. We usually don't write these types of letters and haven't made it a routine to send holiday cards, but this moment in our lives coincides with some significant milestones and events happening in the world around us.
We're Selling Our Home in Montpelier, Vermont
Yes, you could own this 1967 craftsman-style home in the heart of Vermont. We've made several improvements, and if circumstances were different, we would happily spend more time in the comfort and safety of this place. However, as you'll soon learn, change is upon us.
I've selected some photos from the listing and linked it below. Keep in mind that most of your neighbors lean solidly blue, and the area has additional appeal.
https://redf.in/vcwNaN
So, if you're in the market, please reach out. We would love to show you our home and sell it to you.
Moving
If we're selling, where are we headed next? We plan to move internationally to Vancouver Island, in or around Victoria, BC. This time, we have secured the necessary visas and work permits, and we are eager to become part of our new community.
Why Canada?
The wheels for this move were already in motion long before the US election, and while we're not satisfied with the outcome of that event, we are seeking a better social safety net—specifically regarding healthcare and education. Go figure.
We recognize that Canada has its challenges, but on balance, we believe they are not worse than the healthcare issues we've faced over the last decade or more. Again, go figure.
Personal Updates
Everything about this post thus far has revolved around my family and me. As you can imagine, this move will profoundly affect my life. It marks an inflection point, and since we are changing the direction of our path, we might as well be specific about its trajectory.
To begin, I have quit my current job. Back in September, while I was still seeing a counselor, it was clear to her that I was unhappy with my employment situation. Preparing for the impending audit cycle that I've since completed was really bringing me down.
Since that checkpoint, I have been accepted into WGU.edu and plan to complete my Bachelor's in Networking. The degree program is entirely online and much more affordable compared to traditional brick-and-mortar options.
You might wonder, "If IT doesn't bring you much joy these days, why go back to school for an IT degree?" Well, the answer is complex. I'm an older gentleman, and until I can figure out how to make hiking long distances my career, I need to stick with the field that has sustained me thus far.
Speaking of hiking, because of this turning point in my life, I've decided to seize this opportunity for myself. In 2022, I was prepared to hike the southbound Pacific Crest Trail (SOBO #PCT), but that was interrupted before it even began. I turned my permit back to the PCTA so someone else could use it and then moved with my family to France for a year.
When we returned to the States, I had mostly given up on that idea. It didn't seem possible given the path my life had taken. Imagine my surprise when I realized that the hike had become a possibility once again. Even more surprising was when I expressed my desire to hike and that desire was immediately supported and encouraged by my wonderful partner.
Right now, all I'm waiting on is the permit. Expect much more thru hiking related content here after.
