In Connecticut, my husband and I mostly talked logistics. In Spain, we started dating each other again.
My husband and I moved our family from Connecticut to Spain. Starting over abroad unexpectedly brought us closer as a couple.
The author and her family relocated from Connecticut to Madrid, Spain. They sold their home and discarded most of their possessions before the move. The transition was stressful and uncertain, but it ultimately strengthened their bond. Now, the family lives in a small flat with their two sons. They live without a car and are learning Spanish.
In the United States, the author and her husband Jeff had conversations centered on logistics, such as coordinating their children's activities, attending meetings, and preparing dinner. When the children were in bed, the couple often spent time on their phones or watching a movie, but never truly connected meaningfully.
Moving to Spain, the couple discovered they were still busy with school runs and other commitments, but they spent more time together than before. They took the time to observe how locals interact with each other and adopted similar habits, like stopping for unexpected coffee or exploring new areas together. These small gestures have significantly improved their connection.
The author and Jeff are now a family of four, relying on each other more than ever. They have faced challenges, such as Jeff's lengthy language course and efforts to secure employment while his student visa was valid. Despite the daily obstacles, the couple continues to support one another, fostering a stronger relationship.
A practice that has helped the couple stay aligned is a weekly journal where they discuss their week, offering support, addressing goals, and planning time together. This ritual has been crucial in keeping them on the same page, even more so in their new environment.
To further foster their connection, the author and Jeff started short day-dates, such as walks, lunches, or visits to a rose garden. These intentional moments of togetherness have created new opportunities for bonding.
The move to Spain brought unexpected benefits beyond the language, culture, and community. The couple has formed stronger connections with each other and enjoyed quality time together, like evening strolls, morning hikes, and word searches with their children. These experiences have proven to be the most rewarding aspects of their relocation.
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