An Open Book, Still a Private Man
Billy Kaderli

I never wanted to be a man of history. I am, at heart, a private person. The early-retirement FIRE movement grew organically from people like us who simply ventured out with a dream—no phones, no computers, no grand plan. Just backbone and curiosity.

A few weeks ago I went down to the Havana Club, and my good friend Mr. Bacardi was there. Latin jazz was playing in the background. As we were sipping some fine rum and swapping tales, Mary Jane walked in.

Two kids from Ohio on an accelerated college plan — aka dropouts — raised with a strong work ethic pretty much describes Akaisha and me.

I’ve been pondering this question since Akaisha passed away. Thank you for giving me this platform to think and write honestly, from the heart.

I find this information interesting, and it follows my own situation of wealth growth and spending.

Now What?
Billy Kaderli

How do you spend a growing — and, to me, comfortable — net worth when the person you shared it with is gone?

Our readers have written to us asking how much it costs to live in Chapala, Mexico. While much depends on your particular style of living, your housing needs, and how you dine out or entertain yourself and your friends, below is a sample list of commonly purchased items to give you an idea of the money it takes to live in this charming town. This list is by no means exhaustive.

I want to thank each and every one of you who have written to me over these last few challenging months of my new solo life.

I’ve written that I am making mistakes. Apparently that is continuing from not thinking as clearly as I normally would.

Many of you have been asking about my cooking skills and how I became a chef. It’s a two-hour lunch story, but the short answer is...

Dolly Parton made it a year and a half after her husband died, which got me thinking about my own future.

As many of you know, Akaisha and I first came to Chapala, Mexico in 1993. Not many of the people we met back then are still here. In the tropics, people come and they go.

I guess some guys and gals would relish my position — financially independent and single — but so far I don’t. The grass isn’t always greener, and I miss my partner dearly.

It just doesn’t feel right for me.

Regaining Control
Billy Kaderli

For a man used to being in control, I found myself lost and lacking confidence.