🌍 How to Leave the United States: Our Big Leap to Nairobi, Kenya

Why Nairobi?

For us, Nairobi wasn’t just another travel destination—it felt like home before we even lived here. We visited three times, and each trip confirmed what our hearts already knew: this is where we belonged. From the warmth of the people to the rich culture, and even the rhythm of everyday life, Nairobi called to us in a way no other place ever had.

The Decision to Move

The idea of uprooting your life and moving overseas can feel overwhelming, but for us the choice was guided by faith and purpose. We trusted that where God was leading us, everything else would fall into place. Instead of booking round-trip flights, we purchased one-way tickets straight to Nairobi. That simple decision made it clear: this wasn’t just a trip—it was the beginning of a brand-new chapter.

How to Leave the United States

If you’re wondering how to leave the United States and make such a big move, here’s what worked for us:

1. Selling It All

We let go of nearly everything we owned. That meant hosting garage sales, selling on Facebook Marketplace, and making countless donation trips to Salvation Army and Goodwill. It was bittersweet, but also freeing. Every item that left our home felt like a step closer to freedom and new beginnings.

2. Securing Housing

Before we even boarded the plane, we booked a long-term Airbnb rental. This gave us a safe, stable landing spot while we explored neighborhoods and searched for the perfect permanent home. That transition space was one of the smartest decisions we made.

3. School for Our Son

With our 8-year-old son in mind, we researched and toured multiple international schools in Nairobi. We finally chose one that balanced an excellent curriculum with affordability. The excitement on his face when he started school told us we had made the right choice.

4. Trusting the Process

More than anything, we leaned on faith and embraced flexibility. Big moves come with challenges, but instead of focusing on the unknowns, we focused on the opportunity to grow together as a family.

The Transition

What surprised us most about leaving the U.S. was how seamless the transition felt once we arrived. Yes, there were adjustments, but the overwhelming sense of belonging made it all worthwhile. Instead of feeling like outsiders, we felt like we had finally arrived where we were meant to be.

A New Chapter Begins

This move is just the beginning of our journey as the Free Feet Family. We’re excited to share the highs, the lows, and everything in between with you. Our hope is that our story encourages other families to step outside their comfort zones, explore the world together, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

📺 Want to see more of our journey in real time? Follow us on our Free Feet Family YouTube channel where we share vlogs, family adventures, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of life in Nairobi and beyond.

Everything we packed for our new life in Kenya!

✨ Thank you for being here at the start of our journey. Be sure to subscribe and follow along as we dive deeper into life in Nairobi and future travels around the world.