From Burnout to Bliss: How One Couple Found Success in a Small Town
Meet Chris and Roxanna Harwood, a couple who traded in their stressful lives for a chance to run a motel in a quaint Wyoming town. Their journey is a testament to the power of taking risks and finding happiness in unexpected places.
A New Chapter
In 2017, Chris and Roxanna were feeling burnt out. Chris was working long hours, and Roxanna was struggling to find fulfillment in her marketing job. When Chris’s father announced plans to sell the family’s motel, the Wheels Motel in Greybull, Wyoming, the couple saw an opportunity to start anew.
“We were both feeling stuck,” Roxanna recalls. “We needed a change of pace, and this seemed like the perfect chance to take a leap of faith.”
Small Town, Big Dreams
Greybull, with its population of just 2,000 residents, was a far cry from the hustle and bustle of city life. But Chris and Roxanna were drawn to the town’s charm and saw potential in the motel.
“We knew it wouldn’t be easy,” Chris says. “But we were willing to put in the work to make it happen.”
Renovation and Revitalization
The couple threw themselves into renovating the motel, pouring over $100,000 into the project. They updated rooms, installed new signage, and added amenities like free Wi-Fi and complimentary baked goods.
Roxanna, an artist at heart, also took on the task of revitalizing the town’s image. She painted a mural in the town center and joined the local Chamber of Commerce.
A Family Affair
Chris and Roxanna’s hard work paid off, and the motel began to flourish. They welcomed their son, Ronan, in 2018, and the motel became a true family affair.
“We love that our son gets to grow up in this small town,” Roxanna says. “It’s a unique experience, and we feel grateful to be able to provide it for him.”
Financial Freedom
The couple’s financial situation has also improved dramatically. They’ve paid off the mortgage on the motel and are now generating a significant income.
“We’re not getting rich off this,” Chris says. “But we’re making enough to live comfortably and enjoy some of the finer things in life.”
Investing in the Future
Chris and Roxanna are also investing in their future. They’ve started putting money into stocks and cryptocurrency, with the goal of building a nest egg.
“We’re not sure what the future holds,” Chris says. “But we’re trying to be smart about our finances and set ourselves up for success.”
A Life of Balance
Running a motel is not without its challenges, but Chris and Roxanna have found a sense of balance in their lives. They work hard, but they also make time for relaxation and leisure activities.
“We love that we can take a break whenever we need to,” Roxanna says. “Whether it’s a hike in the mountains or a quiet evening at home, we feel grateful for this lifestyle.”
No Regrets
Looking back, Chris and Roxanna have no regrets about their decision to leave behind their old lives.
“We took a risk, and it paid off,” Chris says. “We’re living a life that’s true to who we are, and that’s the greatest reward of all.”
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