It’s been just around 2 months since we made the move from Arkansas to Puerto Rico, and the transition was as hard as I thought. I suppose moving anywhere new, without friends and family nearby, is difficult, but adding our “newly wed” state and the bit of culture shock, it’s been darn near miserable at times!
But for the most part, it’s been amazing. I’d take 20 days of wonderful over 5 days of misery any day, so I feel pretty lucky over all. Several things I’m grateful for include:
1. the ability to do contract work for Inuvo (my old company) from home.
This has been a blessing for sure, as I was so worried about what I would do with my time during the day. Having new and challenging projects to figure out and getting to chat with my favorite boss every day makes the 8-5 weekdays quite bearable, even if I am completely alone (minus the dogs) for the better part of the day.
2. my dogs. duh. but more specifically, that they made the trip here without any problems and seem to be loving the indoor/outdoor space we have for them.
Hilde hasn’t limped once since we’ve been here (which I attribute to the balmy weather) and her coat has completely grown back. She’s blind as a bat and deaf as a post but is getting around great and still get’s super excited when I yell the word “treat” at her.
3. Great new friends who are kind, giving, sharing, funny, and quite brilliant- almost every one of them.
We’ve kind of found our own little “group” here in Palmas and they make life so much more interesting. Life is nothing without friends.
4. Having new friends who own 100 ft yachts
I mean, we’re pretty stupid lucky to get to go out on this thing every weekend. And we always have a great time lounging in the middle of the Caribbean.
It really doesn’t get more beautiful than this folks…
Gary Fears is like our ultimate idol. He’s been everywhere, done everything, and might just be the most interesting man in the world! 😉 His house, which he invites us to come hang out at, isn’t too shabby either…
5. Having great friends and family come visit!
So far both Broc’s mom and Amy & Daniel have come and stayed, and it’s been so nice to have a piece of home on the island with us. We rented this big townhome so we could fill it with friends and family, but now that we’re having a wedding, we may get all of them at once!
6. Relaxing every evening in the perfect Puerto Rican weather.
Who could ask for better temps! 90’s during the day and 75 by sunset. It’s really hard to complain about anything else.
7. Nature, beauty, and the island animals
I never thought I’d be so smitten with the various lizards running around everywhere, but I think they’re so interesting to look at, and happy they have feet!
The stray dogs on the island do make me quite sad, but at least they’re never too hot or cold, and there’s always food laying around. Sunny would love their life for sure.
From crystal blue beaches to palm trees & mountains, I’m constantly in awe of the natural beauty and simplicity of the Enchanted Isle.
8. Delicious food!
I seriously haven’t had a meal that I’m not in love with. It’s very different- lots of seafood and fried pies stuffed with cheese and meat. They even put mash potatoes on their taco’s here- and they’re amazing!
9. My wonderful husband!
I couldn’t get by one day without this dude, and am so happy I married him. He’s everyone’s “best friend”, but I’m the favorite for now at least. I love him more every day.
10. Having the best year of my life.
I live in paradise. Somebody slap me.