It has its perks.

So while being on the East Coast has its challenges, it also has its perks. Whenever people ask us about living in New England I always say the same few things:
1. It's so fun being on the East Coast for a change!
2. It's totally new and different than what we're used to and we're adjusting pretty well.
3. It's fun! But everything is so far from our house!
4. It's been the best experience for us as a couple.

#4 is probably my favorite answer because being completely away from both of our families, all of our friends, and outside of our comfort zone has been the best thing for us. We've been married for a year and a half now and undoubtedly we have grown closer. We have tried new things together. Been to new places. Made new friends as a married couple. But none of those things were to the extent that this New England experience is turning out to be. And guys, it's the best.

We both miss our families. That will never change and will always be a hardship while we're out here, but we get to be together! All alone together. Not many couples get a chance like this: to move away entirely and grow together as a couple and to be fair not every couple needs to do this, but this girl highly recommends it! (what am I even saying?)

Some perks:
**disclaimer: some of the apply to being married and living on your own in general. I realize this.

1. You get your spouse to yourself: I mean this in the best way possible. I love both of our families and all of our friends, but sometimes I just want to be with my husband. Just him. And me.
2. You can have sexy time whenever you want and never have to worry about being interrupted or walked in on.
3. You can walk around naked in your house.
4. You can leave the dishes in the sink after dinner if you so choose.
5. You can make whatever you're feeling like for dinner.
6. Going out to eat is a compromise between two people only.
8. You get to experience a brand new place together.
9. Which means you also get to be lost together.
10. You get to establish your own family between the two of you.
11. You can up and leave on a mini vacation without having to answer to anyone
12. Getting out of Utah means there are real opportunities for missionary work.
13. Seeing new aspects of nature. (ponds really do freeze over, and people actually ice skate on them!)
14. Eating authentic foods- Greek, you got it! Fresh sea food, sure! Real Italian Pizza, coming right up!
15. Experiencing real life history. (the pilgrims were all up in here)
16. People treat you as an adult and a contributing member to the ward family.
17. You are forced to be social. (Unless you really don't want any friends)

This is in no means an all inclusive list, but it's some of the things that Tay and I have come to love about our experience together. We are happy to have the opportunity to try something new, travel a bit and see how our "family" develops. It's been so fun and we are truly blessed to be here!