The act of minimalism: A Life Refined in Brazil. Navigating retirement through the lens of intentional living, world-class literature, and the vibrant culture of South America.
This me and to the right, please find links to my latest posts.
Beyond the Release Cycle
Observations on Retirement, Reading, and Life in Rio.
For forty years, my life was defined by software builds, release schedules, and the fast-paced logic of technology. Today, my “schedules” are dictated by the arrival of a fresh espresso and the pace of a Portuguese sentence.
I’m Kevin. I traded the corporate ladder for a front-row seat to the beautiful absurdity of life in Brazil. This isn’t a travelogue or a “how-to” guide for a perfect retirement; it’s a collection of honest dispatches from a life in transition.
What You’ll Find Here
The Expat Lens I don’t write about the tourist highlights. I write about the “pão de queijo” moments, the small, daily cultural frictions, and the quiet joy of learning to navigate a new world at 62.
The Heavy Lifters (Books & Ideas) I read to be challenged, not just entertained. From Ron Chernow’s deep dives into history to the big questions posed by Harari, I break down the ideas that are actually worth your time.
The “Retired Guy” Reality Retirement isn’t just “not working.” It’s an identity shift. I explore the gripes, the reflections, and the unexpected freedoms that come with finally stopping to answer to a clock.
The Daily Prompt: Sometimes the best insights come from the smallest questions. I use daily prompts to dig into the meanings behind the noise.
The Weekly Exchange
Every week, I sift through the digital noise to share:
- One standout read: A piece of writing from someone else that made me stop and think.
- One local observation: Something I noticed while wandering in Rio.
- A Conversation: This isn’t a one-way street. I read every comment, and I reply to every one.
“If you’re looking for a polished influencer, you’re in the wrong place. If you’re looking for an observant realist thinking out loud, pull up a chair.”