Politics on Pause: How House & Pet Sitting Brings Me Joy, Community, and Calm

Politics on Pause: How House & Pet Sitting Brings Me Joy, Community, and Calm

Hi, I’m Lisa—63, single, (mostly) fit, and forever curious about the world. I run my fitness business in person when I am in Atlanta and remotely the rest of the time, which gives me the freedom to travel, explore, and live life a little differently. Nearly three years ago, I stepped into the world of house and pet sitting, and it has become one of the most unexpected joys of my life.

I first started house sitting before the world—especially the political landscape in the US—felt so chaotic, frightening and unpredictable. Like many people, I have been glued to the news, trying to make sense of it all, feeling the tension creeping into my daily life and staying under the covers longer than usual. The division, the uncertainty, the constant noise—is all so exhausting. I need a break. Not just a vacation, but a deeper kind of pause. Something grounding.

I have been inching toward making a permanent move to San Miguel and after my last visit I thought I would not return for a few months while I take care of some things in Atlanta for myself and my 2 adult kids. But… I am constantly daydreaming about returning to San Miguel…NOW.

I’d resigned myself to staying here and doing the “responsible” things and then… yesterday a perfect (and I mean PERFECT) house and pet sit opportunity entered the picture. The couple who own the offered home are amazing and the location is where I had imagined I might want to rent my “home” for a year. I love how the universe works! This option allows me to “try on the neighborhood.” I think I can do it and will know tomorrow!

At first, house and pet sitting was a more practical. It allowed me to travel economically, spend time with animals I adore, and experience different places. But quickly, it turned into something much more meaningful.

For nearly three years now, I’ve cared for countless pets—each with their own personality and charm—and lived in homes that let me “try on” different lives. Some days I’m in a cozy cottage, other days a large home with beautiful gardens, a beach bungalow or city apartment. Each stay invites me to explore a new neighborhood, connect with locals, and slip seamlessly into a new rhythm of life.

Over time, I’ve built real friendships—people I stay in touch with, return to visit, and who now feel like family scattered across the map. It’s not just about caring for pets and homes—it’s about being part of a community, however temporary, and making real connections.

And there’s one place that has stolen my heart completely: San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. I’ve fallen in love with the cobblestone streets, the bright bursts of color everywhere, the hum of music and conversation, and most of all, the warmth of the people. Every time I return to San Miguel to house sit, it feels like I’m coming home. I can feel the energy of the place shift me—slow me down, open me up, make me smile.

All the while, I bring my fitness business with me. Whether I’m working from a sunny patio in Mexico or a quiet kitchen in Portland, I continue coaching my clients online, staying active, and sharing wellness wherever I am. Often, there’s a furry companion curled up nearby, reminding me to pause and be present.

House and pet sitting gives me exactly what I need: peace in the middle of uncertainty, freedom to roam, and a way to do something good—caring for homes, animals, and communities along the way. It’s a joyful escape from the noise, a constant reminder that while the world may feel chaotic, there are always pockets of calm, kindness, and fun waiting to be discovered.

So while the political headlines continue to swirl, I find my steadiness. One house, one pet, one adventure at a time.

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