Embracing Change: Charity Kreher’s Journey from Oklahoma to Puerto Rico
A Leap into the Unknown
Charity Kreher, a 34-year-old project manager, seized the opportunity to relocate her family from Oklahoma to Puerto Rico. When her husband was offered a job on the island, they saw it as a chance to dive into an entirely different culture and environment. “If we don’t do it, would we be kicking ourselves for not getting out of our comfort zone?” Charity recalled, stressing the importance of setting an example for their children about embracing new experiences.
The decision to move was both significant and practical. Charity’s job allowed for remote work, making the transition smoother for the family. As they landed in San Juan in November 2024, it was Charity’s first glimpse of their new home, setting the stage for a transformative experience.
A Shift in Lifestyle
While the Kreher family now inhabits a 1,500-square-foot apartment—much smaller than their previous 3,500-square-foot house in Oklahoma—they find themselves spending more time outdoors than ever before. Charity emphasizes the shift in their lifestyle, noting, “The goal isn’t to be in our apartment as much. We can do without as much space, and that’s okay.”
Living in an oceanfront high-rise comes with its unique advantages. Charity’s family now relishes activities like beach outings and hiking trails that were less accessible in Oklahoma. “We’re enjoying the beaches, different trails, and the beautiful scenery,” she added. This connection to the outdoors not only encourages family bonding but also fosters a more active lifestyle. With local sports like pickleball gaining popularity, Charity and her husband have also found themselves participating in new activities together, enriching their family time.
Building Community Connections
One of the most unexpected joys of their transition has been the warm reception from the Puerto Rican community. Charity initially wondered how her kids would adapt to a new school but was pleasantly surprised by their friendly environment. “I had heard that everybody was going to be friendly, but I don’t even think people were this friendly in Oklahoma,” she laughed.
Living a few blocks from their children’s school means more family time, as they can now walk together instead of relying on buses or car drops. The school offers diverse, culture-based afterschool programs, creating opportunities for her kids to learn Spanish and possibly become bilingual. This multicultural exposure has introduced them to classmates from various parts of the world, turning their learning environment into a vibrant melting pot of cultures.
Navigating New Challenges
However, the move has not been without its challenges. As Charity puts it, the cost of living in Puerto Rico is higher than she anticipated. While they can find inexpensive local vendors, grocery bills have proven to be steep. “We’re spending $75 to $100 for just a family meal, and my kids don’t eat that much,” she explained. Despite the high prices, she has managed to navigate the local grocery landscape, utilizing options like Costco to save on essentials.
Frequent power outages are also part of life on the island. Charity’s building is equipped with a generator, giving the family some security, but she hears stories from friends struggling with utilities. “You wouldn’t believe how frequently the stoplights go out, and we all just know how to handle it,” she noted, reflecting on the island’s unique adaptability in the face of such inconveniences.
Embracing the Puerto Rican Way of Life
Despite these hurdles, Charity feels reassured by how the family has adapted to life on the island. They have established routines and found local activities that not only keep them engaged but also deepen their connection to Puerto Rican culture. Whether it’s running alongside the local community on weekends or indulging in traditional foods, they have embraced their new lifestyle.
“The utilities are struggling, but you just have to learn to adapt,” Charity concludes, illuminating the resourcefulness that comes from being immersed in a culture so different yet surprisingly similar to their own. Her family’s experience illustrates the beauty and intricacies of moving to a new culture, revealing that while challenges may arise, the rewards of adventure and community are well worth the leap.
