Preparing to Launch

Most of you already know this, but Ruyman and I are moving to Tenerife, Spain.

When: the first part of September.

Why: There are several thoughts behind this decision. We want to travel before we get too old and decrepit to enjoy it. I need to learn Spanish. We want to spend some time getting to know Ruyman's family a little better. Ruyman has a shot of getting into med school there and the tuition is free. But mostly, we're doing it because we can. Without kids or a mortgage, now is the perfect time to go nomad and get out all our crazy before we reproduce.

How: A move like this requires a lot of planning and we've been at it for the last six months, but it's only the past few weeks things have really started to gel. Ruyman and I both gave notice at our jobs. Ruyman became a citizen of the United States. We bought plane tickets. And we're gradually selling off everything we own. It's kind of a liberating feeling when you pare down your worldly goods to the contents of one small U-haul and four suitcases.

FAQ:

Does Jess speak Spanish? No. I understand quite a bit but responding is not something I'm good at.

Why get Ruyman's citizenship if you're just going to leave the country? As a permanent resident, Ruyman would've had to return to the states every 6 months in order to retain his resident status. As a citizen, he can come and go as he pleases.

Do you have jobs lined up? Ruyman has a job as a security guard. I'm hoping to teach English, either at a school or as a tutor.

How long are you staying in Spain? Minimum of one and a half years. Maximum of six years.

Are you crazy? Most likely.