This post is not about resolutions, goals, plans, or gratitude. It’s not a bucket list (a word that is wrongly and over used in my opinion). It’s about what I have in mind regarding this blog, my online presence, and our upcoming adventures.
But first, I would like to wish everyone a healthy, prosperous, recovering, and adventurous new year. I truly hope that we will turn a leaf in 2022, on many fronts. Have a rewarding and happy one!
Roaming About blog
Like my previous website, It’s Irie, which I maintained from 2007 until 2015 to document our sailing adventures and which is still active, this blog (started in 2015) was initially meant to keep friends and family up to date about our whereabouts and whatabouts. But it turned into so much more than that! Thanks to you, dear reader.
It’s Irie blog
My blog’s main theme is travel related, so I want to get back to those roots. I hope to write more compelling posts – entertaining and informative – with a smaller selection of photos. This will be a work in progress. As always, I’ll update our current location in the sidebar.
While my writing journey has been a big part since I started this blog, it should not take up 25% of the content anymore. I wrote a book, edited it, published it, and promoted it. Not everyone is interested in all those details or experiences. I will still post updates, but not monthly anymore; maybe every other month or quarterly. January is the first time I skipped this tradition since the mid-2016.
The expense reports are fun to compose and seem to be well received. They also give me an opportunity to display places, occurrences, and photos that didn’t appear elsewhere, so I’ll keep them.
Income from this blog
Ever since I became a nomad in 2003, I’ve been very good at working for free or for a pittance. Yes, earning money should be fun too, but there has to be a balance. I’ve never placed ads or pop-ups on this blog (and never will as they annoy me as a reader) and only recently added a couple of affiliate Amazon links for my book, which offers pennies when used.
Most of you have purchased Plunge already, left a review, and/or spread the word. My tremendous gratitude for all this support! I do hope new and future readers of Roaming About will (eventually) buy and read my book as well, so I’m keeping the little “prompts” on the sidebar of the website and bottom of certain post. As mentioned in my writing update blogs, I earn US$3.50 from every book I sell online.
Our hosting and domain fees total about $400 every three years. This month, it’s pay-up time again. We have always fronted this money, but because our living costs keep increasing, I’ve added a little “tip jar” on the sidebar in the form of a donation button. Followers have been encouraging us to put some kind of “support system” in place. Of course, unless on a laptop or with devices in the desktop setting, nobody will probably see the button. Can you find it? We have no need for contributions to a pizza, coffee, or beer fund; we’d just like to cover the cost for keeping this blog alive and maintained. We are also considering writing product reviews (like this solar panel one), being sponsored by companies, or becoming brand ambassadors as we embark on our next epic trip.
My blogging interactions
This blogging hobby, and especially reading (and engaging on) other blogs, is very time consuming. I think it’s safe to say that I follow about 50 bloggers and have been adamant over the years to read most of their posts and leave a comment. Since I’m curious about the host’s reply, I mark the checkbox to receive all comments, resulting in a flood of emails in my inbox. I’ve become pretty effective at deleting the masses and singling out the reply I was waiting for. Still, blogging is taking precious time away from real-life adventures, reading books (my current average is six a year!), writing, and trying to earn money. If I was retired and/or living in a stable home with not much going on, it would be different.
Rest assured, dear blog readers, my Roaming About website remains a priority. I still plan on posting about once a week and I always, always reply to comments (eventually) and react to legitimate emails sent my way.
Rest assured, dear blogging friends, I will keep following along and reading the articles that interest me. When I give your post a “like,” it means that I read it, and – well – liked it! My internet availability might prevent me from interacting much, but know you are still a part of my life.
My social media presence
And, what to do about social media, that other time-sucker? I’m taking a step back from Instagram (after three years of having an account, I gained a “whopping” 338 followers), hope to engage more with Twitter (how long have I been saying that?), and will keep using Facebook as my main “channel.” I also wonder if we shouldn’t try YouTube one day, but that is opening a can of very different, technical, timely, non-stop, and even more time-consuming worms!
Our lifestyle
If you know us and/or have read Plunge, you will be accustomed to our attitude of not planning much, going with the flow, and being a tad impulsive. As we get older, however, it feels like we need to be better prepared and organized. Gone are the days that we bought a truck camper – or a sailboat – and set out on an international adventure within months. How long have I wanted to take a small camper to South America? Plunge readers might remember…
Ready for new adventures
So, our big incentive is to get this open-ended adventure started in 2022. Of course, a lot depends on the pandemic situation, our choice/change of mobile living quarters, and preparing ourselves, our vehicle, our camper, and our dog for extensive and indefinite travels again. Stay tuned!
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January 8, 2022 at 15:58
It you are interested in teaching on line I have a website that give you some ideas. I have some connections with some online schools. The current rate is $30 cdn hr and there are options for French as well. We can do a zoom chat if you are interested. Of course you need wifi.
January 8, 2022 at 16:00
https://easyteachingenglishonline.wordpress.com/
January 10, 2022 at 13:20
Great site and info, An. Thanks for compiling the resources and sharing your personal experiences with them. I think this would be the perfect job for me whenever we become expats somewhere. I’ve been contemplating teaching ESL for a couple of decades, as I’m a certified primary school teacher (in Belgium) and miss interacting with children.
January 10, 2022 at 13:44
I didn’t know you were a teacher. That is a perfect fit. I only do about 3 hours a week because I only want to have something to do and keep my mind active. I enjoy the mods. Once I found some websites I like I don’t have to do any prep work. Even better!!
January 10, 2022 at 14:31
Perfect! You sure have figured it out. I would be happy teaching a few hours a week as well, but right now it is just too hard to combine with our lifestyle on the road – soon in Mexico, where internet is harder to find. Happy teaching!!
January 10, 2022 at 13:10
Hi An! Thank you so much for your offer and website link. At the moment, I’m not looking for a committing job and will stick to my freelance opportunities. I’m not really in a position (and desire) to have a work schedule. I might consider this in the future, though, so will check out and keep your link on file.
January 8, 2022 at 16:00
Very interesting, Liesbet. You know I rely on you for vicarious travels since I pretty much go nowhere, so I’m thrilled you will keep that up. We all go through those thought processes–is this working the way I planned–so I thoroughly enjoyed your internal monologue on this.
January 10, 2022 at 13:15
Hi Jacqui! As you know, I love having you along for the ride. I like how you called this post an internal monologue, as my main goal with it was, indeed, to make myself accountable for some needed changes. And like you, I find it easier to figure things out – and commit to them – when writing them down. 🙂
January 8, 2022 at 16:17
Happy New Year! Looks like you are setting sails towards a new adventure ????
January 10, 2022 at 14:38
Happy New Year to you both as well, Margie! Yes, we are setting sail on land for extended travels again. Hopefully. It is “dangerous” to announce, promise, plan, and count on any adventures these months…
January 8, 2022 at 16:21
I’m glad you are doing a little step back. Also glad that Roaming About is still a priority.
Social media can be so overwhelming. You do amazing keeping up with it all. I love the few connections I’ve made through my blog and social media but I always feel like I don’t have enough time to maintain them.
Looking forward to reading about your continued travels. See you in Mexico!
January 10, 2022 at 14:37
Hi Duwan!
You have been telling me for ages to “let go” of certain/more things. As you know, I have a difficult time giving anything up, especially when I enjoy it. But, our sanity is important. You paused your blog and I’m sure it offered you extra time and focus. I, honestly, could spend every and all day online with fun and work stuff, but that defeats the purpose of being a nomad, doesn’t it? And it causes conflict in this household.
See you soon in Mexico! We are hoping to cross the border on Wednesday – six weeks after our initial intention!!! I guess that will make it easier for you to catch up with us in Baja. 🙂
January 8, 2022 at 16:41
Hi Liesbet. I’m not surprised. You have amazed me all these years with how often you post, comment and wrote, published and promoted a book on top of it. I KNOW it all takes time (lots more time than most people realize.) so I understand your need to prioritize for the future. And really, whatever you decide is going to work out for you. Like all your fans I look forward to following you through your next adventures. ~Kathy
January 10, 2022 at 14:33
Hello Kathy! I always enjoy reading your comments because you seem to be so familiar and in tune with what I go through most of the days. Let’s hope 2022 will bring all four of us more adventures, less stress, and good health!!
January 8, 2022 at 17:11
When I started reading I was worried you were going to say that you didn’t want to keep the blog…relief it is not the case.
But good for you to make some changes that are going to be less time consuming for you…I honestly don’t know how you manage all the things you do.
I agree that social media can be a time waster sometimes, I have decided to spend a less time on it in 2022.
I can’t see the “tip jar” button on my iPhone, but I do think that is a very good idea. I prefer that to all the awful pop up advertisements that so many bloggers are having.
I am looking forward to continue following your adventures in 2022.
January 10, 2022 at 13:27
Hi Gilda,
It seems that we often think alike, so I’m not surprised you decided to spend less time on SM this year, too. Once we see certain habits or tasks as chores, it is time to reconsider.
I’m glad you still enjoy following my blog. I honestly think it would be the last thing to go, because it’s my favorite “social media” channel and I love all the connections made through it. But, it is also the only internet activity that is costing me money and most of my time…
I’ll have to come up with a donate button in the menu of my blog as well, so people using devices have a way to see it or look for it. I create all my blog posts on my laptop and when I read other blogs, I do this on my iPad in the horizontal position, so I don’t seem to miss much. It’s all become very complicated.
Have a great week,
Liesbet
January 8, 2022 at 18:06
Hi Liesbet, I enjoyed reading about your plans, hopes and dreams for 2022. I can see the donate button on the side bar. Glad you are keeping the blog, but your decisions sound wise. Also, as a relatively new blogger, I appreciate the wisdom of processing and discerning that you model in sharing your thoughts with your readers. I have been pretty absent, I try not to post unless I am going to read, or at least I don’t do link parties if I don’t have time to read. Trying to finish a book, i have posters in my craft room and office that say “Book before blog” Blessings, Michele
January 10, 2022 at 13:37
Hi Michele,
It seems like you have a good and healthy blogging attitude. When I first started this blog, my lifestyle wasn’t as challenging as when I lived on our boat, so I had more time to invest online and was excited about all of it. Due to so many other obligations and tasks over the years, I should have eased that blogging investment a bit, but never did.
Good idea about the post-it notes regarding your priority to read books. That’s what I want and hope to do in 2022 as well. So far, still too much work with other pursuits, but once we reach Mexico and manage to slow down some, I truly want to read books again!
January 8, 2022 at 18:21
I’m retired and barely have enough time to do all the things that I want to do. I have to imagine that is a constant challenge, especially with spotty Wi-fi. Part of the reason I began following you was because I was fascinated by your alternative lifestyle. It’s not something I will probably ever do, but I like to understand the why of people and how they tick.
I find your adventures fascinating, and it’s fun for me when you go to places that I’ve been before to see if your reflections are similar to my memories.
You’re posts are always entertaining and informative. While I’m donating more time to writing, I’ll continue to blog and read others’ blogs, though likely not adding many more. One could literally blog all day long if it were physically possible, but life is about balance and taking care of our responsibilities while doing the things that keep our bodies and minds in good working shape. Good luck in 2022!
January 10, 2022 at 13:42
The older we get, the busier we seem to become as well, Pete. I’ve often stated that never in my life will I be bored. And I truly don’t understand people who do!
I’m so glad – and relieved – to read that you are still enjoying this blog and following along in our adventures, which haven’t been that exciting lately. Time to change that!
You are so right (and I’ve often realized this myself) about how it is possible to get sucked into the blogging world for entire days at a time. And, it is a fun, easy, and interesting pursuit, but very distracting. Plus, there is more to life than that. Finding a balance is key. You hit the nail on the head!!
Happy blogging, reading, and balancing! 🙂
January 8, 2022 at 18:24
Hi Liesbet, I am looking forward to your new adventures. You have such an open and honest way of writing. You have a gift. I don’t even travel but I enjoy so much learning about your travels. Wherever you go and whatever you do I wish you, Mark and Maya all the best.
I don’t see your tip jar and I’m on a laptop.
January 10, 2022 at 13:45
Hello Lea!
Thank you for your affirmation about my blog and my writing – and for your lovely wishes. Always. It’s because of people like you that I keep enjoying what I do on Roaming About.
That you can’t see the donate button when on a laptop, worries me, as it should show up in the side bar, on the right side of the blog. Then, when scrolling down a little bit, it should be located between the subscribe (to my blog) widget and the Facebook picture… I have now created a tab on the blog menu as well.
January 12, 2022 at 22:06
Oh, now I see it Liesbet. Sheesh, I’m sure it was there before, and I just missed it. And I see the tab too. This is a good idea Liesbet.
January 14, 2022 at 12:57
Thanks for checking and confirming, Lea!
January 8, 2022 at 19:02
I’m not surprised that you’ve decided to pull back a bit. Social media is a time suck and blogging can take over your life a bit too if you let it. I think the changes you are planning to make are good ones. Plan and organize yourselves, enjoy your adventures, keep us looped in when you can. I always look forward to your posts when they cross my inbox.
January 10, 2022 at 13:46
Hello Janis! I’m glad I still get your attention when a blog post pops up in your inbox. I will follow your advice to the best of my capabilities… 🙂
January 8, 2022 at 19:39
Producing videos for You Tube is a TOTAL time suck. Don’t get into that can of worms unless you are certain that it will generate substantial income. If you need further convincing, go to “Gone with the Wynns” You Tube channel and watch their recent video title “Not Your Average Office.” They publish a professional quality video once a week and it takes them 10-20 hours to produce and upload it (that’s in addition to time spent shooting the footage)! They do make money from their You Tube and Internet presence, but they work hard for it. Good luck with your upcoming adventures! Cheers, Leslie
January 10, 2022 at 13:50
Yep. That’s the thing with YouTube – it is extremely intensive, invasive, and time consuming. It would take over our life – literally and physically. Thing is that there is no way of knowing ahead of time if the channel will generate substantial income. I am familiar with the Wynns, who first RVd and are now sailing – the opposite of what we did. But, I don’t have time (or don’t prioritize) watching videos. All I know about those channels is through Mark. My non-existing interest in following people on YouTube (except my friends Ben and Peta from Green Global Trek) is probably a good indication I should not embark on that pursuit! I am totally aware of the work and time investment needed.
January 8, 2022 at 21:22
Thank you for the heads up, Liesbet. The changes you’re planning to make sound practical. I hope you’ve had a great start to 2022 and get to go to South America this year. I love my time spent in Argentina, Chile, Ecuador and Peru. Wishing you, Mark and Maya a happy and healthy New Year full of fun adventures.
January 10, 2022 at 13:52
I’m a tad envious that you have already been to those South American beauties, Natalie, but do hope to follow suit this year, probably not getting any further south than Colombia, but it will be a start. Once there, we can figure out everything else!
Thank you for the lovely wishes for 2022. It started with more of the same than the end of 2021, but we hope for improvement in Baja soon. Have a fabulous week!
January 8, 2022 at 21:54
As you know, I am right there with you on the time-sucking nature of social media and engaged blogging. I don’t remember if I have specifically said it to you, but as much as I love and value my blogging friends, I simply cannot comment on every post if people post extremely frequently. When I see a post from someone who has not cluttered up my inbox multiple times that week or month, I am much more inclined to comment! I also never mean it to be insulting when I “only” LIKE someone’s post; it just means that post hit me when I was busy living my own real life. I am glad to keep reading about your travels and exploits, and I think you are on the right track to prioritize your non-virtual life!
January 10, 2022 at 13:56
You have always inspired me with your choices and balance of trips and blogs, Lexie. I have the same tendency than you when I browse my inbox and find multiple posts from the same people. If they don’t all interest me, I pick and choose. Like Pete mentioned earlier – I could spend entire days reading blogs and commenting, even without engaging on my own blog. No wonder I don’t have time to read a book or focus on making more money. I think I’ll just “like” more posts in the future instead of “liking” and commenting. Thing is that I always have so much to say. Not always very interesting or constructive, but just sharing my thoughts on a subject! Yep, I need to tone that down… 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 04:50
What a great and honest post – I loved it. I don’t know why more writers and bloggers don’t write honest posts rather than take their readers the wrong way around the track they’re really on but don’t want to admit too, Liesbet. I’ve always believed that it is best to be honest and upfront instead of trying to hide behind a screen while running around one of those hamster wheels and getting nowhere.
Did I notice the ‘Donation’ button? No, but i did look for it when you mentioned it. I know we’ve talked about widget bars before, and whether readers actually take much notice of them. When I tell you that I often place items on my widget bar actually on to some of my blog posts, it should give you an idea of what I think about widget bars. To be honest, the only widget I check out on the widget bar on your blog is the location one to see where you guys are.
In the meantime, I look forward to reading your upcoming posts and wish you continued success with your writing and adventures.
January 10, 2022 at 14:03
Hi Hugh!
You have been doing so well finding a balance ever since your “blogging burn-out” and since then (who knows how long ago that was), I have been considering scaling down. You are an inspiration! You might remember I have mentioned the guilt and time sink of the blogging part in my life to you as well. By writing and posting this blog about my intentions, I make myself accountable and hopefully some changes will take place in 2022. It’s a constant push and pull, though, about what I want and should do. My days are just not long enough to do it all and my personality always wants to do…it…all!!
I will look into your advice again to put more widgets at the end of every blog post, like I now do with the “Plunge block,” but I don’t want to crowd that area and don’t want to keep pushing the donate button. That would look obnoxious and desperate. As of now, I’ve created a menu tab for it, so anybody can see or find this donate option if desired.
Thank you for your continued care, informative blog posts, and genuine comments!
January 11, 2022 at 06:24
I only hope that those bloggers and writers out there who keep their guilt of not being able to read and comment on every single blog they follow to themselves, read this post, Liesbet. It’s such a good lesson of how to deal with a problem they’re hiding and a problem that will probably take them down unless they admit they can’t do it all.
And remember you don’t need to add blocks at the end of all your posts. For example, I only add the ones I have for my books on my flash fiction posts. That way, readers don’t see them all the time and (I hope) don’t think I keep pushing my books.
January 12, 2022 at 00:49
That’s a good idea and tip, Hugh, about alternating blocks or skipping them from time to time at the bottom of my blog posts. I did not think about that. It makes sense and prevents being too pushy. Thank you for the advice!
January 9, 2022 at 08:59
You put a lot into promoting your book, way more than I have for any of my books, and it’s paid off.
I think you should do a YouTube channel. You visit so many interesting places – you could do a short clip at each stop. It would compliment your book’s theme.
And that’s a lot of money for a website. Glad I chose to make my blog my site and only pay fourteen a year for the domain.
January 10, 2022 at 14:10
Hi Alex!
Sometimes I wonder if my time wouldn’t be better spent writing more articles or a new book than promoting Plunge, which is exhausting and not profitable. But I find it easier and more fun than the other options. 🙂
I think our content on YouTube could be entertaining and informative, if we would ever figure out how to pull it off. But neither Mark or I have media personalities, so the stories might look quite unprofessional and will include a lot of internal, relationship, and maintenance struggles, which might put viewers off… Also, I can’t stand ads and don’t want to be a hypocrite pushing them on others, which is the main way to make money with YouTube.
We have to pay for our hosting company, with which we have several websites and a few email accounts. This is the highest expense. Then, we pay about $16 per year for each of the four or five domain names we still own. We might drop the one for our previous business this year, even though it still provides content to our old customers. We will see.
January 9, 2022 at 13:08
Hi, Liesbet – Balancing blogs, social media and more is an ongoing struggle. I’m glad to hear that (although stepping back) you are continuing this blog. I (quite liberally) put myself in the category of ‘friends wishing to be kept updated on your whereabouts and whatabouts’.
I was delighted to have the opportunity to donate to your tip jar and encourage others to do the same.
January 10, 2022 at 14:13
You are an amazing woman, Donna, and I hope you realize this. I am happy and fortunate to call you my friend, which I might have mentioned previously as well. Thank you so much for your (and Richard’s) continued support – you have done so much already regarding Plunge, recommending it to people and your book club, and now your (twin) donation. Sigh. No words… <3
January 9, 2022 at 14:18
You are culling and curating, a healthy process for writers/bloggers especially as 2022 begins. Knowing one’s limits is the first step toward changing them. You are doing that now–brava!
About blogging, sometimes I skip a week or two here and there because it does take time to read/reply to commenters. I’m glad you are continuing with this: I check your geographical coordinates regularly and want to know what you’re up to.
I started a YouTube channel but it will become another social media “thing” you’ll have to address and it may not benefit you in any measurable way.
The tip jar is a great idea. Smart woman!
January 10, 2022 at 14:17
Thanks for the kudos, Marian – from one smart woman to another. 🙂 I have to start somewhere if I want to make a change. And for me (and I have an inkling for you too), that starts with writing things down.
You have a good blogging balance figured out… Like Mark often tells me “You don’t have to write and post a blog today – it’s your choice.” Now that I won’t feel this way anymore about the IWSG updates every first Wednesday of the month, I will become more relaxed about when and how much I post.
I’m curious about your YouTube channel. Will you post something about that on your blog soon?
January 9, 2022 at 14:25
Have donated to the kitty. . .
January 10, 2022 at 14:18
Thank you so much, Marian. You are not only smart; you are generous, supportive, sweet, and fabulous as well. <3
January 9, 2022 at 15:11
We can all use a little reset and social media evaluation from time to time. That’s exactly where I’m at. I don’t spend much time on IG anymore and limited time on FB and feel better for it, but still enjoy the blogosphere and appreciate the friendships made. Unfortunately, RVing has become more expensive and free parking is shrinking. We’ve discovered sticks n bricks living to be less expensive but also less adventurous. Ah, always a tradeoff. Cheers to a fun 2022!
January 10, 2022 at 14:21
Good to hear you’re feeling better about less social media involvement, Ingrid. I will get there too. As you might have experienced, it always takes a while to wind down and find a new comfort zone and balance. Friendships made while blogging are the best “cherries on top”!!!
RVing has become extremely popular in the US the last two years, which encourages us to cross the border once more. I was glad to read in your latest blog that you have no regrets about “moving ashore.” Like you mention, everything is a trade-off. I hope you keep blogging as well, at your own pace, to update us all!
January 9, 2022 at 15:14
I have the same struggle: Blogging and social media don’t pay me anything but take significant time away from writing, my only revenue-producing activity. But a lot of readers have told me that they really appreciate the personal connection and they like to be kept up to date with my writing progress, so maybe there’s some indirect benefit there.
I’ve been thinking of adding a “Donate” button to my blog, too. (And I can see yours in the sidebar, BTW.) Here’s hoping it works for you. 🙂
Happy travels!
January 10, 2022 at 14:24
Your weekly posts are always short, to the point, and entertaining, Diane. They are a joy to read and I’m sure your series readers appreciate the book updates and the humor. Your posts connect you to them in a lovely, personal, and real-life way. Go for it with that “donate” button. You never know and you don’t have anything to lose. It’s relatively simple to set up, either with a WordPress widget or directly through PayPal (ideally with a business account, which you might already have).
January 10, 2022 at 00:38
You’ve got a lot of decisions to make, and a new year is a great time to take stock and review what works and what doesn’t, Liesbet. It’s surprising the things that cost money. I had self-hosted a website and did so with my blog but went back to WordPress similar to reasons you mentioned–too expensive to self host. There are very few ways to make a living blogging, and the bloggers that try do it 24/7. Not the life you or I want. In the end blogging is great, and interacting with people in person is best unless the world shuts down every few years… You’re off to new adventures and better ways of doing things and I enjoy reading about your adventures. We would love to do a Mexico trip again, but we are both working for a few more years so travel abroad will be limited. Take good care and safe travels.
January 10, 2022 at 14:29
Hi Terri!
We are still self-hosting through WordPress, because it gives us more flexibility, options, and freedom when it comes to blog and website functions and reliability. Mark, of course, is very capable regarding IT issues, so I have that going for me. If I’d be on my own for the technical side of things, I would probably not self host!
I was hoping – and thinking – you’d both be retired when moving to Washington. I’m sorry to read (here and on your blog) that you are both still working… The trade-off for upsizing instead of downsizing, I guess. 🙂 It looks like you are enjoying the substitute job, so that is good. And, your new house and work “barn” are super awesome!!!
Have a fabulous week, my friend!
January 10, 2022 at 17:08
That’s a great point that Mark can handle website issues. I just didn’t care for the expenses of self-hosting. We are quite happy to be working even if it’s part-time. I don’t need to since my pension is enough, but Hans wanted to work a couple more years to be able to draw an additional pension. Our cost of living here decreased by a LOT so this is our choice to work and engage with a new community. Until we can find a good dog sitter to stay in the home, we are planning on road trips and camping, so it’s all good!
January 10, 2022 at 22:39
Good to know that the cost of living in Washington is lower than California (which I figured) and that you are both getting satisfaction from the jobs. If only I was still house and pet sitting… Maybe one day we will get back into that. 🙂
January 10, 2022 at 21:55
Good for you guys. Change is in the air with so many. Some, like me, know it’s time for change, still working on that, one day at a time. Our priorities and wants change as we get older. I know you guys will find where it is you want to be before the year ends. We have to live through the bumpy, uncertain journeys before we reap new bounty. <3
January 10, 2022 at 22:41
Wise words, my friend. I’m also of the belief that life without challenges would be boring and stagnant. So, I’d rather live through those bumps and experiences to find satisfaction and accomplishments. 🙂
January 11, 2022 at 12:55
Happy new year dear friend! As you take the time to reevaluate your life and the purposes of this blog, I just wanted to let you know how wonderfully grateful I am for your presence in my life. Speaking with you about travels, expenses, writing and a hundred other things has been a delight. Wishing you and yours a very happy and safe 2022.
January 12, 2022 at 00:58
Happy New Year to you too!! You are too kind. <3 I have enjoyed our online friendship as well and always savor your well-written, thoughtful, and inspiring posts. May they continue in 2022 and beyond. :-)
January 11, 2022 at 18:30
I, too, have really enjoyed reading your posts, Liesbet, as they offer a different take on life than mine. Your and Mark’s decision to live a vagabond life is not one I’d have the courage or wits to undertake but I envy your ability to go with the flow so to speak!
I hope that your time in Baja will be restful and restorative for you, Mark, and Maya. After the cruddy experience in Phoenix, a laid-back atmosphere in Mexico sounds just what you both need. I hope that you can hang up the SM for a while and devote more time to reading and other activities that give you peace and pleasure.
January 12, 2022 at 01:03
Thank you so much for your sweet comment and beautiful wishes, Annie – your lovely and loving words warm my heart. You and Steven have been supportive of our blog and lifestyle for many, many years and we truly appreciate that. And, to top all that greatness off, you are so super generous. Thank you for the incredible donation! You two were the motivation behind that as well. Let’s hope we get to meet in person one of these years.
January 13, 2022 at 19:31
Liesbet I think it is a good idea to reassess where you want to spend your time and energy. I have been writing less myself.
Finding ways to at least pay for the blog or make money from it can be a challenging decision. We do have ads but I don’t run them on new posts so regular followers typically don’t see them. We also partner with tourism boards and businesses who hire us to do social media and or blog posts.
Wishing you well in your decisions. Enjoy Baja!
January 14, 2022 at 13:00
Hi Sue!
Not putting the ads with every post sounds like a good idea. I often see them, but maybe it’s because it takes me a while to get through my inbox, reading all the blogs I enjoy. 🙂
The partnership stuff is something we have been looking into. It’s all about finding a balance. Integrity is important to us, as I know it is for you two as well. We would only support brands that we stand behind.
Hugs from Baja!
January 14, 2022 at 08:44
Happy New Year, Liesbet! I think your upcoming changes are so sensible and practical, and I applaud you for making those hard decisions. Stepping back from social media will give you more time to live and enjoy life! And you, Mark, and Maya have some exciting adventures coming up – savor them! We love hearing from you when the timing works for you – otherwise, have a blast! ~Terri
January 14, 2022 at 13:04
Thank you, Terri, and a wonderful New Year to you and James as well! These social media changes and such are hard decisions, indeed, and I am having a hard time sticking to them. It’s like withdrawal!! Once the internet becomes more of an issue, here in Baja, I will have to adjust, haha. I will take your advice to heart about savoring our adventures more. We’ve had a bad spell in 2020 and 2021, so much so that I picked the word “joy” to hopefully define my 2022. 🙂
January 24, 2022 at 02:18
Exciting moves are afoot, LIsebet and it was interesting to read how much monetary effort goes into maintaining your blog. That is an expense. I have always been on the free plan and sometimes feel guilty about that, but WordPress can sneak in an ad or tow. I hope they don’t bother my readers. I asked them once and most said they don’t see popups. It is something I think about – going ad free.
I am constantly in awe of your thriftiness in making ends meet. It is an inspiration. Recently, I have been limiting all of those comment and advertising emails due to the amount of carbon produced from stores sending out all those junk emails that we have to delete. I was surprised how long it took and how many I had accumulated.
All the best for the upcoming year.
January 24, 2022 at 14:44
Hi Amanda!
The reason our blog and email services are relatively expensive is because we are self-hosted and we own a few domains for previous blogs, this one, and our previous business. It might be time to let go of one of them…
Being frugal is two-folded. Most of the time I’m happy and satisfied we can make this lifestyle work on a budget. But other times, I wish we could – and would – splurge a little more. Because what’s the purpose of exploring the world and not going on any excursions or museum visits, because the activity costs money? We are still trying to find a balance with that. Most of our friends on the road have more disposable funds, so we have to be careful who we hang out with and go out to dinner with. 🙂
I had no idea that spam via emails – and maybe ads as well? – has a high carbon footprint. How so?