On October 21, 2021, amidst the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, my family and I touched down in the United States. It was a moment of overwhelming emotion and amazement, as this marked our eighth international move. Despite the global restrictions in place, we were given exceptional permission to fly—a privilege we didn’t take lightly.

The airports were eerily quiet, with many shops and services closed. The pandemic still had a grip on the world. Yet, our excitement outweighed any sense of unease. This was the first time my family had set foot on American soil, and the magnitude of the step we were taking was undeniable. New beginnings in a new country—again—but this time in the land of endless possibilities. Silicon Valley!

Traveling with our beloved pets added another layer of complexity and concern. Our dog and cat were stowed away in the cargo area of the plane, and throughout the flight, thoughts of their safety and comfort were constantly in the back of our minds. What a relief when we got reunited with them at SFO.

As we stepped out of the airport, we were filled with a sense of uncertainty but also hope. The idea of starting fresh, especially during a global pandemic, was daunting and exhilarating. Changing countries for the eighth time was an incredible milestone for us, but it also underscored the resilience we had developed as a family.

This move wasn’t just about geography—it was about new opportunities, embracing change, and, above all, the joy of facing it together. Despite the challenges, we knew that this new chapter in the U.S. would be an adventure unlike any we had experienced before.