Finding Balance in a Modern World

In a world that often feels like it's moving a million miles an hour, many individuals are seeking ways to reconnect with nature, simplify their lives, and find freedom from the constraints of traditional living. Enter homesteading and digital nomadism – two lifestyles that may seem worlds apart but share a common thread of independence, self-sufficiency, and a desire for a more authentic way of life.

Homesteading, rooted in the tradition of self-reliant living and sustainable agriculture, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity as people seek to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and create a closer connection to the land. Meanwhile, digital nomadism – fueled by advancements in technology and remote work opportunities – offers the freedom to work and travel anywhere in the world, untethered from the constraints of a traditional office.

At first glance, these two lifestyles may appear contradictory – one rooted in rootedness and permanence, the other in movement and exploration. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that homesteading and digital nomadism can complement each other in unexpected ways, offering a unique blend of stability and adventure that resonates with today's modern seekers.

Homesteading provides a foundation of stability and self-sufficiency, offering a sense of security and rootedness that is often lacking in the fast-paced digital world. By growing our own food and raising animals, homesteaders are able to create a sustainable lifestyle that is less dependent on external systems and resources. This self-reliance not only fosters a deeper connection to the land but also provides a sense of empowerment and resilience in the face of uncertainty.

On the other hand, digital nomadism offers the freedom and flexibility to explore new places, cultures, and experiences while maintaining a steady income. Armed with nothing more than a laptop and an internet connection, digital nomads can work from anywhere in the world, whether it's a remote mountain cabin, a beachside bungalow, or a bustling urban cafe. This nomadic lifestyle fosters a sense of adventure, curiosity, and openness to new possibilities, allowing us to expand our horizons and break free from the confines of a traditional nine-to-five routine.

But what happens when these two seemingly disparate lifestyles intersect? The result is a harmonious blend of stability and adventure, tradition and innovation, permanence and impermanence. Imagine waking up each morning on your homestead, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, tending to your garden and caring for your animals. Then, in the afternoon, you pack up your laptop and spend the rest of the day working on your latest project from anywhere in the world.

In this hybrid lifestyle, homesteading provides a sanctuary of stability and self-sufficiency, while digital nomadism offers the freedom and flexibility to explore new opportunities and experiences. Together, they create a balanced and fulfilling way of life that honors both the need for rootedness and the desire for adventure.

Of course, blending homesteading and digital nomadism isn't without its challenges. It requires careful planning, resourcefulness, and adaptability to navigate the complexities of both lifestyles. From ensuring reliable internet access in remote locations to managing the logistics of travel and accommodation, there are many factors to consider when embarking on this journey.

But for those who are willing to embrace the adventure and embrace the unknown, the rewards are boundless. Whether you're harvesting vegetables from your garden, hiking through the mountains, or collaborating with colleagues halfway across the world, the hybrid lifestyle of homesteading and digital nomadism offers a unique opportunity to find balance, purpose, and fulfillment in a modern world that often feels anything but balanced.

So, if you've ever dreamed of living off the land while exploring the far corners of the globe, why not give it a try? With a little creativity, courage, and determination, you just might find that the best of both worlds is closer than you think.

may your circuits be bright, katie

morning coffee rambles (in sweats)

Remember, every step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to your destination. Embrace the challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning. Stay persistent, stay resilient, and keep moving forward, one step at a time.

You have within you the power to create the future you desire. Believe in yourself, trust in your abilities, and never underestimate the impact of your hard work and dedication.

as i said on this vlog, it’s okay to neglect the laundry. just don’t neglect your future, or your children.

may your circuits be bright, katie

women should dominate the ai industry

Women should be at the forefront of the AI job market for several compelling reasons, including the pursuit of financial freedom, the ability to design their lives, and the opportunity for remote work. Here's why:

1. Empowering Financial Freedom:

   • Access to Lucrative Opportunities: The AI job market offers lucrative career opportunities with competitive salaries and benefits. By actively participating in this market, women can secure high-paying roles in fields such as data science, machine learning, AI research, and engineering, allowing them to achieve financial independence and stability.

   • Closing the Gender Pay Gap: Historically, women have faced disparities in pay and advancement opportunities compared to their male counterparts. By entering high-demand fields like AI, women can help close the gender pay gap and advocate for equal pay for equal work, empowering themselves and future generations of women.

2. Designing Their Lives:

   • Flexibility and Autonomy: The rise of remote work and flexible work arrangements in the AI industry provides women with the opportunity to design their lives according to their preferences and priorities. Whether they choose to work from home, travel while working, or pursue alternative work schedules, women can tailor their careers to align with their personal and professional aspirations.

   • Work-Life Balance: AI roles often offer flexibility in terms of work hours and location, enabling women to achieve a healthier work-life balance. By prioritizing their well-being and self-care, women can excel in their careers while also nurturing their relationships, pursuing hobbies, and enjoying leisure activities.

3. Remote Work Opportunities:

   • Access to Global Talent Pool: Remote work in the AI industry allows women to access job opportunities and collaborate with colleagues and clients from around the world. By leveraging technology and digital communication tools, women can work remotely while contributing to cutting-edge projects, collaborating with diverse teams, and expanding their professional networks.

   • Overcoming Geographic Barriers: Remote work eliminates geographic barriers and empowers women to pursue AI careers regardless of their location. Whether they reside in urban centers, rural communities, or remote areas, women can access remote AI jobs, participate in virtual teams, and contribute to global initiatives without the need for relocation.

     may your circuits stay bright, katie

salesforce trailhead training

who knew that one connection made at our daughters farm school in rural houston texas could send me trailblazing. it began when the concept of financial freedom was dropped. that seed planted itself and rooted in minutes. I then spent that entire night deep diving into the fire community. wow. i almost felt shameful that i am now 37 years old and just now truly hearing about financial freedom and the concept of retiring early. you can retire early and be financially set??? my husband is 48 and has been working in the shipping industry for 30 years. his job is extremely demanding, and he is on call 24/7. often getting phone calls from captains of ships from midnight to the early morning hours. he’s given his life and his most valuable commodity, his time, to an industry that probably wouldn’t blink an eye if he wasn’t there tomorrow. you’re telling me that i’m just now realizing that he could have been free from the crushing weight of a stressful full time job and spending our days as a family unit? tears. shame.

i’m certainly not new to out of the box thinking. i would actually consider myself one who finds myself trailblazing often in different areas of my life. homeschooling. plant based eating. crunchy and natural medicines. i don’t make a habit of walking down the road most traveled. i seek the muddy trails. when it’s raining.

well now there’s no time to waste. salesforce here i come. salesforce is the crm company that i was introduced to by brad. this company gave him back time with his family and their pursuit towards financial freedom. i am on this trail and i won’t turn back when met with obstacles. i am ready for the higher elevations, stormy weather and your occasional black bear. you will walk this trail with me as I chronicle my adventure. i also advise that you come hiking. that apex is calling.

may your circuits be bright,

katie