Field Notes

Essays, reviews, and other writing outside the series.

A City I Will Always Love, but No Longer Call Home

A City I Will Always Love, but No Longer Call Home

Guadalajara is where I was born, where my family still lives, yet it no longer feels like home. I know the streets and the people, but familiarity isn’t belonging. The city will always be a part of me, but like an old friend, I no longer truly know it. Is that sad? I’m still figuring it out.

travel · · 1 min read
How Personal Projects Keep Me Sharp

How Personal Projects Keep Me Sharp

I’ve been working on a personal coding project to stay sharp and keep learning. It’s not about making money—it’s about challenging myself, exploring new tools, and building something useful. Whether it succeeds or not, the process itself is the reward. Here’s what I’ve been working on.

Coding · · 2 min read
Are We All Going to Lose Our Jobs to AI?

Are We All Going to Lose Our Jobs to AI?

AI isn’t replacing software engineers or writers yet—it still makes mistakes and lacks real understanding. Right now, it’s like a smart librarian: great at finding info but not capable of deep reasoning across all domains. The key is learning to use AI effectively so we don’t get left behind.

chatgpt · · 3 min read
Focus Amid Chaos

Focus Amid Chaos

I’ve let the world’s noise pull me away from my own work. There’s a fine line between staying informed and being consumed—I’ve drifted too far. It’s time to refocus, not to escape reality, but to protect my time, my attention, and the life I’m building.

focus · · 2 min read
Source Code

Source Code

Despite the challenges we see today, we’re living in the best era in human history. Advances in health, technology, and quality of life have transformed our world. Walking away from the event, I felt grateful—not just for the discussion, but for the time we live in.

Source Code · · 3 min read
Now That’s Art

Now That’s Art

These gifts are priceless, given freely, and when you truly cherish them—oh my God, when you do—you’ll live a life full of meaning. For me, those smiles? That’s art.”

family · · 3 min read
A photo taken from Seattle's waterfront looking at Elliott Bay

People on the Bus

Fridays are my escape from schedules—a time to walk, photograph, write, and soak in the city’s rhythm. On the bus, I reflected on the independence of older passengers, inspiring me to stay active for the future. Seattle’s mix of nature and urban life makes every stroll a fresh experience.

Lifestyle · · 3 min read
Savoring Time: How I Made 2024 Feel Like a Full Year

Savoring Time: How I Made 2024 Feel Like a Full Year

Time feels faster as we age, but I learned we can slow it down by breaking routines and embracing new experiences. In 2024, I made small changes that turned the year into a fulfilling, long journey. As 2025 begins, I’m ready to keep living intentionally and savoring every moment.

slow living · · 2 min read
How Our Choices Shape Our Future

How Our Choices Shape Our Future

Twenty-eight years ago, I left Mexico for the U.S. to support my family. That decision reshaped our lives, proving how powerful choices can be. From financial struggles to building a life of adventure, every step has shaped the future I’m grateful for today.

personal growth · · 3 min read
Finding Value in the Noise

Finding Value in the Noise

I enjoy hearing people talk or write about business ideas and tips on how to get started. There’s so

ideas · · 2 min read

Election Night Thoughts

It’s the night before the presidential election in America—just hours before Election Day. I’m eager to find

election · · 2 min read