“Yes, we’re moving to Costa Rica. You know the country… the one in Central America, below Mexico, between Nicaragua and Panama?” I’ve said this phrase so many times over this past year that some times I wake up in the middle of the night unconsciously reciting it. Well… at least, this is what my wife Jodi tells me. How would I know; I’m sleeping.

YES, we really ARE going… and tomorrow, October 3rd, is the date we leave the comforts of the good ‘ole U.S. of A. and become ex-pats in Costa Rica.

Why? Yep, I knew you would ask this question next; it typically follows my answer to “You’re moving where?” Well… there is a short answer to this question and a long answer. Even though I know we all love a good story… at least I do … I think I’ll start with the cliff notes version. I promise that as soon as I figure out what this blogging thing is all about then I will venture into more eloquent, longer stories with riveting plots and beautiful descriptions of magical places.

OK, back to the Why. My family (Jodi & Sage) and I are moving to Costa Rica to experience an entirely different lifestyle. It’s really that simple. Now I know a plethora of questions have just entered your conscious mind and I would LOVE to answer all of them right now, BUT… as I sit here at 12:23am Eastern writing this blog post, I’m thinking I probably should get some sleep before our big move tomorrow… I mean today. Especially since once we fly into San Jose, we then have a 6 hour drive to Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula where our new home is located. And, oh yeah, on the way to our new home, we will be signing the papers to buy our new car as well. Weeeeeee… let the adventure begin!

Yes, yes, yes… there is lots to tell and many experiences already to share with everyone. My normal mantra would be to tell myself to “stay awake until this is done, you need to finish this right now, go grab another can of Monster energy drink.” Please know… I’m definitely looking forward to sharing our experiences with you, but for now, I must say “mañana.” Consider this my first act of living in the true spirit of the Costa Ricans.

You know… along the coasts and in the rainforests – which is where our new home is – life moves slower; manaña is said to be the national answer to everything. This is one of the most profound things that has attracted us to this country and quite honestly, it’s a part of Costa Rica’s charm… the ability to live life at the perfect pace. It is truly Pura Vida.

John