The blueprint for a major move involves a few key elements: curiosity, agility, and a healthy dose of embracing the unknown. The Ruggieri family’s Colorado-to-Texas trek is a perfect example of all of those, along with a side of refreshing optimism. With a Penske truck and an appetite for adventure, the family of five took on a move that might seem daunting to some but delivered on their homesteading dream.
Their adventure began when plans to build a homestead in Colorado were derailed by rising construction costs due to the pandemic. On their way to find a Plan B, the family found a destination that was quite possibly even better than what they’d first imagined.
“In March 2021, we took our spring break vacation down to Texas to visit family and look for land,” says Heather Ruggieri, the mom of the family. “On the last day, we found it! Ten beautiful, rural acres in North Texas. For us, this means we can now pursue hobby farming, animals, gardening, and more.”
After discovering the perfect lot, the Ruggieris’ building plans came together quickly thanks to a designer who specializes in farmhouses. The home will have four bedrooms and bathrooms, an open concept family space, and spacious beamed front porch. To make the most of the property, they are building a guest space above the garage and a pool to enjoy on the hotter days. The new home should be ready next summer—just in time for Heather to start homeschooling daughters, Gabriela, 13, Julia, 10, and Emilia, 7. Meanwhile, dad Jason Ruggieri will be able to enjoy continuity with his job, which allows for remote work.
After a major pivot, the Ruggieri’s Plan B came together quickly thanks to the family’s flexibility and optimistic outlook.
Both Heather and Jason had experience with long-distance moves that taught them the importance of patience, planning and purging unnecessary items. Still, with three daughters (plus two Red Merle Australian Shepherd dogs) in tow, they knew this was going to be the biggest challenge yet. In the face of uncertainty, it was helpful for the family to have one thing they could depend on: By using a Penske truck for a DIY move, they were able to control the packing, timeline, and budget.