Here it is November, and our original plans to head to Cuenca in a few weeks have changed. Thanks to some glitches with processing Ken's retirement paperwork, our launch date won't be until the middle of January. Spending the holidays with family and friends will be wonderful as usual, especially with the grandchildren!
Some folks wonder, what would make apparently sane, rather conservative individuals decide to leave everything they know behind to head to a foreign country during their golden years? One word sums it up..........adventure! That's right. God saw fit to join together two individuals who love to travel, explore new cultures, meet new people and experience life to it's fullest. Our greatest joy are our children and grandchildren, and as life would have it, they are spread all over the US. We want to be an important part of their lives, but never an intrusion. Our fantasy is to experience all that Ecuador has to offer, return back to the States invigorated and full of interesting stories to share, and our kids and grandkids, clamoring for us to come visit for an extended period! Truthfully, if modern technology didn't exist, allowing us to stay connected, this grandma would not have been able to take the leap. Only time will tell for sure.
Another major consideration is the state of the economy in the US. Sadly, for many Americans, the retirement years are stressful with financial problems ever looming. This reality spurred us to look at other options years ago when we recognized our resources would be limited. Our children will confirm, we do not want to be a burden to any of them.
Why Ecuador? The beauty of the country, the warmth of the people, the charm of "Queen" Cuenca, the temperate weather, excellent, affordable medical care, and the low cost of living all played a part in our decision. It also is relatively easy to fly back to the US when we want. We see excellent opportunities to share the gospel message. We're excited and nervous at the same time!
Our lovely apartment literally fell into our lap without us even looking. We prayed for open doors, closed doors before we left for Ecuador. Then swish..............here we are renting a lovely place, in a beautiful location on the river, between two parks, in the heart of the Andes mountains, within walking distance of the historic district, shopping, and restaurants. Did I say walking? Yep, no more car!! Walking, the $.25 bus ride or an inexpensive taxi ride in this gorgeous, cultural ciy, will be the order of the day! I see fitter figures in our future. Try and say that fast three times!
Have we lost our minds? Want to help us find them? Come visit us in Cuenca!
