For several decades, I have lived a very frugal life. Partially this was due to my nature, partially due to a family obligation that hung over my head, and partially due to my foresight in anticipating a coming financial crisis that will dwarf 1929, 1987, 1997, 2001-2003, 2007-2009, 2020, and 2022.
Step-1: Completed
For the past many years, my latitude of freedom to travel has been constrained by a family obligation. That obligation has now ended.
Step-2: Completed.
To maximize my "runway" to travel for extended periods of time, I have been consolidating/eliminating expenses. In 2023 I looked ahead, and could see the oncoming storm – and began implementing a strategy that I call "Get Small".
Step-3: In progress. Only two sub-tasks remain - one of which (a major component) will be completed next week. The other could be completed within the following 2-3 weeks, or no later than Spring 2027.
The final step will just be a decision, on WHEN to initiate the final financial move – that will ensure that my travels can continue indefinitely.
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| [image source: artist unknown, pixabay dot com] |
"The Road goes ever on and on,
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the Road has gone,
And I must follow, if I can,
Pursuing it with eager feet,
Until it joins some larger way
Where many paths and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say."
– Bilbo Baggins (The Fellowship of the Ring)
