Yesterday, I spoke about living a simple life. I’ve been moving towards simplicity for a few years now. Living simply seems to suit me, and I believe it is better for our planet. I experience less stress and more freedom when living simply. I don’t have to participate in the consumption rat race, and I have more time and energy for the things that are really important to me (like this blog, spending time in nature, meditation and yoga, or being available to a friend in need).
I had to get creative to figure out how to pull off this kind of lifestyle, and I’ve found a good fit by becoming a property caretaker. I first heard about caretaking 7 years ago and have toyed with the idea since. A year ago, my partner and I took our first official position as caretakers here in northeast PA. The photo above is where we’ve been living and working this past year. Sweet! Next week, we move to GA to another position on a small horse farm on Lake Oconee. We’ve chosen the new place in order to be near our families.
People from around the world embrace caretaking as a lifestyle. Opportunities abound and caretaking can be a wise choice for those who want to live simply, are having financial difficulty, or simply seek adventure or travel. I have heard of many artists and writers who take up caretaking because it frees them to do their art.
There is a huge network through The Caretaker Gazette for those interested. There are positions offering a variety of opportunities, from a free place to park your trailer in exchange for property security to running huge resorts with full scale salaries plus benefits. We have been fortunate to find very appealing situations.
Caretaking isn’t for everyone but it suits me really well. I am grateful for the opportunity and grateful that there is a network like The Caretaker Gazette.
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Thanks for the info about the caretaker gazette. I will take some time to look through that! I live in a small cabin in eastern PA, and simplicity is a necessity in a small space, though books tend to overwhelm my ideas about simplicity. I’m still working on that one. I’ve never understood the need to accumulate things or to have the latest and “greatest” new thing. I truly don’t understand that mindset, though I realize I’m in the minority. Sometimes I think people want all those new things because the interior and spritual part of their lives is barren.
It’s never occurred to me to consider such a thing..nor did I know that a network like this exists. What a wonderful way to experience and enjoy life!!! Am so looking forward to seeing your new place in Georgia.
Caroyln, I wonder about that, too, whether people are barren internally so need all the stuff in an attempt to fill that. I love books, too! Has me actually thinking about a kindle for that very reason.
Marcie, I look forward to sharing my new place with you and others. Lots of new opportunities headed my way!
Carla, I just found your blog through a link on The Caretaker Gazette fan page. My partner and I are enjoying our new and simpler life as caretakers immensely. Our first official sit is in MA on the Cape. When I tell people what we are doing I typically get a really interested response followed by questions. It is always fun to find like-minded people out in blogsville…can’t wait to read more of your posts!
Valynne
Hi there
I have heard about caretaking a few years ago myself, and excited about taking the chance. I am familiar with the caretaker gazette and am planning to subscribe really soon. Probably by the end of the year, because I am not ready to go out just yet. Like you I am also 49 years old, and am looking for the simple life. I have realized that we don’t need near as much as we think that we do, and since I have downsized my life as well I am much happier.
I hope that caretaking is the lifestyle for me as well.
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