After a lot (I mean, A LOT) of consideration, we made the difficult decision to move from Massachusetts to California. This meant leaving our families, friends, careers and our custom-built dream home; and to add to the weight of that decision, we also had to tell our kids that they were leaving their friends and everything they know and love behind. It wasn't easy, but the benefits seriously outweighed the costs.
Our decision to move to California was influenced by the year-round warm weather, emphasis on healthy lifestyle and the allure of slower-paced living. In Mass, we were stuck inside for a good portion of the year and filled that hole with crammed schedules, gatherings every weekend and the perpetual routine of eating dinner in the car between school and practices. It had to stop and California offered exactly what we were looking for.
SO we left our jobs, started a business (ethos-admin.com) and sold our home. Joe set off in a massive Penske truck and a few days later, the kids and I flew out to meet him on the west coast. Joe's trek was not as smooth as we anticipated, but that's a story for another time!
Sounds difficult enough, right? WRONG.
The day before moving into the house we secured, the owner of the home spooked and pulled out of our leasing contract leaving us, well basically homeless. Instead of landing in California and moving into our new home, we scrambled last minute to book an Airbnb, and then another.. and then another. Finding a house to rent in California as a new small business owner is like snagging front row seats to a Beyoncé concert the night before.
After our third week of Airbnb stays, we realized that we really enjoy the lifestyle that short-term rentals offer. This nomadic way of living has allowed us to explore diverse neighborhoods and areas, each with its unique charm and character, providing a richness to our daily lives that permanent residency hadn't ever offered. The flexibility of not being tied down to a single location has freed us from the burden of long-term leases and the maintenance responsibilities of homeownership, giving us the liberty to move with the seasons or chase new opportunities as they arise. Moreover, the variety of accommodations has enriched our experiences, from cozy apartments that offer a taste of local life to luxurious homes that provide a touch of indulgence. This lifestyle has also fostered a sense of adventure and spontaneity in our family, encouraging us to embrace change and new experiences with open arms, making every day an opportunity for discovery.
With our business being operated 100% remotely and the kids homeschooling, the nomadic way of life is a perfect fit for our family.
Welcome to the start of 'All Good Nomad'
I hope you enjoy our corner of the internet, where we chronicle the adventures of our globe-trotting tribe as we wander, teach, and hustle! Follow us on our travels, get the inside scoop on our homeschooling escapades, and witness the magic (and madness) of managing a business on the move.
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The Thompsons