#14: Plan a Move to Another City

Kevin and I have been talking for awhile about moving out of the DC area. While we are happy here, we worry about the cost of living and what our lives will look like in the long term. Over the last year we’ve considered moving to several different cities, but mostly in a hypothetical way.

It’s not hypothetical anymore. We are moving to Austin, Texas!!

Last year my employer, BB&T took over a failing Colonial Bank. Colonial is headquartered in Alabama, in addition, they also have a small presence in Austin and Dallas. Because of the tremendous opportunity that exists in Texas, BB&T decided to keep these branches and create a new region for the bank. Currently, there are only three branches in Austin.

A few months ago, I let the regional leadership in Texas know that I would be interested in joining their team. I didn’t hear anything for a long time and had almost given up hope that anything would happen. Instead I threw myself into this 30 for 30 project and let go of the dream of moving to Texas. Just when I thought it would never happen, I got an email letting me know of an opening in Austin, asking if I was still interested.

From there, things have moved incredibly fast. I expressed interest in the job, they made an offer, and now I’m moving at the end of August. I’m nervous to leave all of my friends and family, but so excited about this new opportunity. Kevin has been talking about moving to Austin since I met him. I’ve had the dream to go back to Texas for as long as I can remember, but it’s always been just that. A dream. I can’t believe it’s actually happening. Austin is consistently listed as one of the top ten cities to live in, top cities for young professionals, top city to be a dog, etc. This is a great opportunity for Kevin and I in the long term. We’ll enjoy a lower cost of living and have more career possibilities in the next few years.

I think the common bumper sticker in Texas reads “I wasn’t born here, but I got here as fast as I could.” Well, I was born there, and it’s taken me 25 years, but I’m headed home.

I can’t think of a better way to wrap up this project, I really couldn’t have planned it better if I had tried. Working through this list has taught me so much about living in the moment, and making my life into what I want it to be. I turn 30 tomorrow, and I’m starting a whole new chapter in my life. I’m not at all scared of being older or sad to let go of my past. I can honestly say I’m happier now than I have ever been and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store.

30 Done!