Once upon a time, in Chicago, Illinois, there was a skilled, hard-working contractor named Miguel Hernandez. He loved his job and was great at remodeling homes. Hernandez grew up and spent his entire life in the bustling city, working relentlessly to improve his family’s lives. Despite his success over the years, he longed for a simple life in a place where his children would thrive and they could spend more time together as a family.
One Phone Call Changed Lives
Little did he know, he would soon be living his dream by helping a friend with construction projects in Gulfport on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. One evening in late December, after receiving the call, Hernandez brought the family together to plan his trip to Gulfport, Mississippi, to help his friend. Winters are harsh in Illinois and create a challenge for construction, and this year was no exception; work was slow. Since school was still in session, taking the entire family wasn’t an option.
The Lower Cost Of Living In Gulfport Vs. Chicago Created A Better Life
Like many who moved from out of town, Hernandez loved the lifestyle and people he met during his stay. Southern hospitality was something new after living in a large and busy metropolitan city like Chicago. Hernandez researched the area, local schools, and homes for sale when not working. He was amazed at how much less it cost to live in coastal Mississippi. After months of careful planning and traveling back and forth to Chicago when he could, Hernandez decided to move his family to the coast.
Upon arriving, a warm, vibrant community with many friendly faces greeted the rest of the family. The stunning blue skies and the sandy beaches captured the children’s hearts, and the transition went more smoothly than anticipated. Hernandez attributes this to the welcoming nature of the people on the coast.
What Was Once A Dream Was Now A Reality
Our coastal cities have always been tight-knit communities with people looking out for each other. As the lower cost of living allowed more leisure time, the Hernandez family grew and engaged in various groups and activities. “The more relaxed pace and activities we enjoyed together through the years have brought us closer as a family,” states Hernandez.
More than a decade later, the children are thriving in school or working in Hernandez’s construction company, Myco Construction Inc. Hernandez has built a stunning 4,500-square-foot home for his family. He has partnered with another contractor to build houses from The Emerald Series. Each professionally designed home is built to impress with high-end finishes and top-of-the-line construction.
Reflection And A Grateful Heart
When asked today how he feels about his decision to move to the coast so long ago, Hernandez says that he often reflects on the hectic nature of his previous life and feels grateful and blessed for the opportunities, friends and lifestyle the coast has introduced. The savings from the lower cost of living allow him time to indulge in his passions for playing in the church band, forming meaningful connections, and contributing positively to the lives of those around him.
Bricks and mortar aren’t the only things Hernandez builds – he has become a beacon of courage and possibility, inspiring others within his family and church to believe in themselves and their dreams.
