“The way of life is wonderful: it is by abandonment.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson
A lot has happened since I last posted on this blog. To wit:
- My son started his university studies abroad.
- I separated from my long-term partner.
- I moved to the Alps.
Putting the Remote in Remote Work
I have been working full-time remote since 2002. One advantage of remote work is that one can theoretically work from anywhere (with an internet connection), but due to various constraints I never actually lived any place truly remote. Until now. Now I live in a tiny village in the mountains of far eastern Switzerland almost three hours by public transportation from Zürich. I have no car and rely on once-hourly public transport. I came without knowing a single person here.
I've rented a modest 1-bedroom apartment. It's adequate, cozy even. The internet connection is plenty fast. My two favorite features are the mountain views and the fireplace. My landlord (who lives above me) is friendly and super sweet. I'm slowly settling in: buying what I need to fill out the apartment, getting to know the locals, getting to know the region. Mostly though (apart from work) I walk. I try to get out every day for an hour, longer on weekends.
The local scenery is gorgeous. I can't wait to experience it in every season of the year and in every weather condition.
I've long dreamed about living in the mountains, and especially in the Swiss Alps. I am grateful to be here and excited to find out what is in store for me.