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Steve Rice - The Creative Edge's avatar

This is so inspiring. I'm a few years behind. In 2021, I moved across the US to a small mountain town on the edge of South Dakota (in the Black Hills). I spent 2 precious years with my grandmother at end of her remarkable 94-year old life. I unexpectedly got to visit Europe for the first time when a friend said, "what would you say if I told you that you could go to Europe for free?" And I fell in love with Lisbon!

This summer/fall, I hope to return and check it out beyond the 4-day vacation visit from 2 years ago. I can't wait to see if my infatuation is something more (or could lead to something more).

Like you, I am drawn to Portugal's relative safety. That and the fact that I can get private health insurance for a fraction of the cost in the US is another major motivator. Thanks for sharing your world...especially your 'why'! It gives me a little more courage than I had before.

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LaDonna Witmer's avatar

Thanks for your note, Steve. I wish you all the best on your journey.

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Andrea Farmer's avatar

tears are streaming down my face as I read this because we have painstakingly come to the same realizations and had the same fears about our child's safety at school, grocery stores, etc. here in the US. We have been planning a move to Portugal and starting with a 6-week visit this summer- perhaps our paths will cross someday! Wishing you and your family a delightful adventure and a peaceful, restful sense of security with your move! All the best, Andrea Farmer

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KG's avatar

Beautiful! Inspirational!

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David Hassler's avatar

I’m so glad I crossed paths with your arrival post on the FB AFIP group today and ventured on to read this piece of your blog. You have so evocatively unearthed for me—and no doubt others—so many of the shared thoughts and feelings we experienced but may have struggled to put to words. Thanks for unpacking your feelings and your family’s story in such well crafted writing. Welcome to Portugal. I hope you and your family enjoy it in your own way as much as Sarah and I have. Cheers, David Hassler

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LaDonna Witmer's avatar

Thanks so much, David!

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Lily Moon's avatar

Reading about your path is so inspiring, and I am so glad you have decided to share your stories with us. Thank you! (And I'm glad you posted the BI article here!)

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Melissa Fondakowski's avatar

Really beautiful piece LaDonna- and LOL/WOW the Biz Insider!!! <3

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