Hello everyone – I’ve got two big pieces of news to share, and both are completely life-changing.
First… we’re having a baby!
We found out recently that we’re expecting a little boy, and while we’re absolutely thrilled, we’re also terrified in the best way possible. It’s overwhelming in that surreal, this-is-actually-happening kind of way. Every day brings new emotions, new plans, and a growing sense of excitement. We’ve been imagining what he’ll be like, wondering what kind of parents we’ll be, and slowly preparing ourselves for this next adventure. We can’t wait to meet him.
The second bit of news is that we’ve decided to leave San Diego and move across the country to Saint Augustine, Florida.
It’s bittersweet. We’ve been living in a beautiful little beach house where we wake up every morning to views of the Pacific. But with both of us working from home and a baby on the way, we had to be realistic. The space is too small, and trying to find something bigger in Southern California just wasn’t feasible – financially or logistically.
So, we started thinking more long-term. Where could we go that would offer us space, affordability, and a slower pace of life – while still keeping us close to the things we love?
In July, we flew into Jacksonville and set off on a road trip down the coast. Our first stop was Saint Augustine – a city we’ve always liked, and one where we already have some close friends. We stayed a few nights, walked the historic downtown, visited the beaches, and felt something click. Still, we kept going. We explored Palm Coast, Daytona Beach, and Cocoa Beach before ending up in Melbourne, where we booked a hotel right on the water. The view from our balcony – that Caribbean blue water and those tropical skies – was enough to make anyone fall in love. We explored the area, made a day trip to Vero Beach, and tried to keep our minds open.
But before we headed west to Orlando for our final night, we both knew. We were moving to Saint Augustine.
There’s just something about it. It’s charming, historic, and full of life. The cobblestone streets and old Spanish architecture feel like stepping back in time. The beaches on Anastasia Island are beautiful, the surf is solid, and there are golf courses all around (which is definitely a bonus). It’s affordable, comfortable, and – maybe most importantly – it feels right. Like a good place to bring a baby into the world. Like somewhere we can catch our breath and make a plan for what comes next.
We don’t know what the long-term future holds. Maybe we’ll be in Saint Augustine for a few years, or maybe we’ll put down roots and never leave. What we do know is that we’re embracing this season of change with open arms, even if it means letting go of things we’ve loved. And honestly? It feels good.
Here’s to new beginnings – in family, in location, and in life.
– Vince
