Well, things seemed to have worked out so far. I was able to work with my employer to show my value to the company and gain a needed cost of living adjustment. My technologist skillset is in high demand and my willingness to learn new things has been a boon. I’ve managed to lose 20 lbs and keep it off (need to get rid of another 40 permanently too). I’ve found love and heartbreak.
I still cringe every time I pay my rent; moreover, it is something that is definitely not sustainable in the long run (10 years+). The politics here still make me uncomfortable. I love that there is more care for the environment. But I don’t love the concept of big government bureaucracy and high taxes.
As I continue my life here, I need to constantly perform a cost/benefit analysis. Maybe someday I will end up leaving. For now, there is a balance that I can tolerate so I stay.
The good:
- Nature
- Beaches
- Mountains
- Forests
- Deserts
- Weather – Mediterranean Climate
- Active Lifestyle
The bad:
- Politics
- Taxes
- High Cost of Living
- Government Debt
- Overcrowding
