The Decision

Over a span of 15 years, we hosted more than 20 foreign exchange students from all over the world. It was through our exchange students that we grew to become enamored with the continent to our south. Our first love was Brasil, with its relaxed atmosphere, and a colorful, diverse culture. Our love story with Brasil prompted us to whimsically purchase a home in a little town in the southern most state, Rio Grande do Sul. It was our intention to retire and spend the rest of our lives there in the Pe do Serra.

From the time of our purchase until winter of 2007, either we had aged or there had been some sort of climatic shift. (We’re certain that the winter temperature has dropped at least 20 degrees because it is impossible for us to age.) Our July visit was excruciatingly frigid. We decided that we would not be happy there, sold the house and began looking farther north, along the coast. Our travels lead us to a small town in Alagoas state, Coruripe and began building a beach house. Shortly after the house was completed, changes occurred for the residency requirements. The residency issue along with the weakening U.S. economy and the strong Brasilian economy, our dream of becoming expats to Brasil began to fade.

We considered Central America, but then remembered our travels to this tiny country, Ecuador, several years ago that we had considered one of the most beautiful and unique places that we had visited. Ecuador had a true splendor beyond anything that we had experienced. While in Ecuador, we had traveled from Otovala to Banos. The cuisine was wonderful, the people friendly and every head turn was a post card.

Immediately after the initial thought of Ecuador, Cuenca became foremost on the list for a number of reasons, economy, availability of housing, inexpensive, and something that is extremely important, climate.

We have learned from our mistakes with our property in Brasil. This time we will be certain before we purchase. We’re certain that we want to be in Cuenca; however, we want to take our time to find a place that is perfect for Mick, our little one, Nick, and me. Initially we will rent. Our projected date of departure is September 15. There is much to do prior. The liquidation process has already begun.

Work wise, there is little time remaining. Mick has officially sold his practice and his last day will be June 1. I, however, have 4 weeks remaining of my mid-life crisis, which was teaching after having been a chemist for 25 years. After June 11, all actions will be directed toward the move.