May 29, 2026 by Cassandra Johnson
My laptop has been through the paces and here, I affectionately sit with my mixed up keyboard. The keyboard symbols and computer parts are mostly domestic but also, now a little and quite significantly international, given that now my adapters, cords and keys have been fixed from the many issues I had working as a digital nomad in Mexico and throughout South America. The latest iteration of maybe my third laptop here is quite a distance away from its original makeup.
I was fortunate to get considerably far south of North America, maintain myself when and where I could, luxuriate a little, and still readily find myself in the tech sector of many Latin American cities, as I needed to maintain my life and livelihood.
The cost analysis of fixing things up, new computer versus just repairs, was the similar scenario I visited in my head when getting all my car repairs.
I was more attuned to better accessories than getting a new computer altogether. I still think the costs have been worth it and on budget.
I started at the end, budgeting in DC between my spacious one bedroom and downsizing to travel full time. I knew adjusting my freelancing and free-from-my-boss new lifestyle was something I needed to become accustomed to, and still something I need to learn.
What comes up for me now is an appreciation for having navigated between different Spanish-speaking cities and repair shops while treating myself, having a little fun, and roughing it. I leaned into my patient disposition while volunteering in the United States, so even more so while volunteering and working outside the country. I appreciate how easily it was for me to continue my livelihood as long as possible while looking back with thanks for all these ready-made skilled tech districts that I left behind. The expertise that exists in Mexico and Latin America gave me a chance to focus on my own skills and growing aspirations.