Thanks again to Better Help for sponsoring this video, and click betterhelp.com/atozenlife for a 10% discount on your first month of therapy. Don't forget to drop your questions for me down below or on Instagram, and see you soon. 😘
Dear Miss, I haven't watched the video yet but I know how it feels. It feels like a huge, overwhelming challenge, to reinvent and turn your life around when you're over 40. But, it possible because others in their 70s - 90s, have done the same. The best advice? Just do it. Don't wait. Don't over think. Do it. And then, like a surfer surfing a wave for the first time SURF the momentum. And ENJOY the adventure. Peace and love, David
I remember when my kids were young and we were living paycheck to paycheck. My husband said he was going to get a second job so that we could try and save money to buy a house. I told him, “no, I rather our kids have time with you while they’re young than have a house.” Best decision. Life’s too short. 😊
Its’s true! The family unit is more important! However, sadly families have been looked down upon for not owning land or their own homes. Looking back I took a low ball job at the school district starting at 8,000 a year. I remember asking for a raise to keep up with inflation and I was told, “NO you don’t have and education.”, but I had the same schedule as my kids so we could live in a small town, while my husband drove 120 miles round trip everyday for 30 years. THANK GOD WE GOT THROUGH IT! It was rough, but all worth it today!
how wonderful for the children to actually REMEMBER THEIR PARENT WAS AROUND!!!! why is society trying to drive a wedge between children and their families!!!
Aren’t the ups and downs of life amazing!?! I’m 70 years old and I’ve sold everything and moved about 4 times! It’s an amazing learning lesson each time! I can’t wait to hear about your experiences! 💕
I'm 59. I moved from the US to the UK in my early 40s to start a new life. 8 years later my husband and I split and I moved to Ireland to start over yet again. Now 9 years later I find myself ending a chapter yet again. I'll be moving back to the UK again. Being a minimalist sure does make these international moves easier! And yes, we get better at handling the curve balls each time!
I'm 70 also and have lost count of the times that I have moved. My husband and I were talking the other evening about a time we were renting a small apartment in a big new city. At the time it was all hard work. But looking back, we had so many good times there, so many great memories, we realised that it was one of the BEST times of our lives! It's not about WHERE you are, it's WHO you are with.
‘Change is the only constant’ - long time subscriber here. I have also learned, in my 82 years, that excitement and trepidation share the same very thin line. So glad you are landing on the excitement side for your new family adventure. Definitely A to Zen. 😘 I’ll be Watching and applauding you all the way. Much love… Susan
I’m looking at the prospect of starting over again at the age of 45 - my partner of last 22 years has just dropped the bombshell that our relationship is over! So yeah, daunting, emotional, upsetting, all that and then some! Doing it all on my own with complex health/medical/invisible disabilities is scaring the begeezus out of me!
Every morning, make a point of consciously stopping, looking yourself in the eye in a mirror, and tell yourself "You got this." Say it like you *mean* it. It may sound corny, but it *will* help keep the fear & concern in proper perspective. Best of luck to you!
I was in your shoes 8 years ago. It's not easy, but you can do it. Find a good church, mine is tiny, and a good ladies group. We all occasionally need some help. A good church is a great place to find it. God bless.
Sorry to hear about your bombshell… sounds like there’s a lot of that going around these days! If I were you, I’d think of what makes you happy, passionate… and jump in! don’t ask for permission or apologize… you put in 22 years, live for you now ❤
I'm so emotional watching this, on your behalf, but also because I just turned 40 and we are going to be starting over in a new city soon after 10 years in our first home together. We have a lot of feelings about it. Here's to new adventures!
I’m joining the 40s and starting over with a big move club too, this comment section must be full of us!! Moving from US to Australia in a few weeks. Good luck to us all!!
I clicked on this so fast. I'm so glad everything is ok! I gotta say fair play for putting your family first! Well done 👏 you've got this! Lots of love from Ireland 🇮🇪
I am 53 and moved, for the 17th time, 3 years ago. 4 children, 30 years of marriage, 6 different countries. Every time I moved, I honestly thought it was the last time. Now, I don't care, I go with the flow! 😊
sometimes that little fantasy of staying put is what gets us through the adjustment, but us humans we are pretty resilient! I'm 65 and the changes don't suddenly stop... not one bit!
😂😂😂 My husband and I have moved so many times as well! We have four kids now, and only the last two moves have we declared as the last move! But who knows! 😂 We're already talking about elsewhere. I'm aching to get us abroad! 🤞❤
As someone who lived in Germany around the same time (2019-2021), I would love to hear about your reverse culture shock when moving back to the States! For me it was the grocery shopping and seeing people with overly packed carts, the huge trucks on the road, and the wide parking spots. Logically, I knew they existed, but seeing it again every day was jarring!
When I visited Germany years ago, I had to rent a car. Being in a foreign country, I wanted a car that was similar in size to mine at home so I'd feel comfortable. Little did I know that I should have gotten a small car just due to the size of the parking spaces.
I’ve never left North America, & I’m overwhelmed by the insanity. Just last week, while sitting parked, the guy next to me backs out, in his 20’ mega sized truck, while the guy behind him is backing out in his oversized pickup, & they collided. I see near collisions all the time, but that was in slow-mo. I drive a tiny pickup, & have literally been closed in a parking spot by 4 extra long trucks parked next to & behind me, unable to move more than 2’. And lately there appears to be a trend of making right turns from left lanes.. at red lights… in front of cars waiting on green. Same behavior whenever there’s a school bus with flashing lights. I see this every day, & I’m in a town of about 12,000.
I have not left the United States but moved from a large packed city to a small mountain town. I had been followed home at Christmas and they tried unsuccessfully to get into my locked car, I had a flasher jump on the hood of my car. and other random things that happen in a city. I had aquired a personal safety device which broke when I moved. My stress level instantly went down after the move. It is jarring when I have to travel to a big city.
@@schnder1I'm glad you're safe now! I'm sure you've got an army of people who have your back if something ever goes wrong! Small town people take care of each other!
I want to hug you! We just moved back to the US from being in Portugal for 2 years. I totally feel you on the grief and mourning. So many feelings!!! Hugs! God Bless You!!
You had me concerned you were splitting up! The Lord is opening a new chapter in your life: your husband is fulfilled, your kids have learned amazing life skills that will serve them well in their lives, you are successful in what you do PLUS have content for weeks! It is a blessing you have each other as support. I love watching your family --- your book is still being written
I relate to this so much! I've moved 14 times in the last 10 years and it's mentally tolling to pick up your life and start over so often. But at the same time it's a nice reset button to declutter your life. I've learned that home is not where you put your things down but where your family is. Happy for you and the decisions you've made for your family!
Having been in your shoes throughout my husband's career, I know what you're feeling. The positivity you are exuding is the right way to approach this change and allowing yourself to grieve is a necessity. New adventures await you and your family - enjoy!!
I’m happy your family is still together. I hope you find a way to keep your sons German so they don’t lose it. They say if you learn language while in elementary school you can get the accent down to native.
I spent over half of my life moving every few years with my spouse and kids. I really disliked repeatedly basically starting over repeatedly but we saw so many amazing places and met great people. I don’t regret a single move because of the life experiences is gave us all. I think it helped my children be able to relate to so many different types of people. This is going to be a great new adventure
I so appreciate you and your videos - your openness and non judgement has served as a great source of support for me. My husband and I this year minimized our belongings (by 90%) and moved to Portugal. Your kindness and positive attitude will serve you well as you settle into a new chapter in Chicago. Wishing you and your family much happiness! (I have shared your channel with at least 10 friends!)
I would never presume to tell you what to do, but if you can look at it as the next chapter vs starting over, you will realize (more comfortably for your emotions) that you’re writing your one big book of life, and not a library of different stories. Welcome home!!!
I also had to leave Germany bc I couldn’t get another job. It was my life’s goal. Now I am working to find a new life goal in the US :/ You are resilient! And you have each other
I cannot wait to see your future videos on how you managed to declutter, sell, and pack your belongings once again. Wishing you and your family continued strength on this new chapter back in the US! ❤️
I just turned 68. I lived in Germany for a year when 33, so I know the changes your going through. So many options at the grocery store, for one. I married at 35, 1st child 38, 2nd at 41, divorced '03, still live with ex. Life is full of changes, and ups and downs. That's what makes it challenging. You're a strong self-assured woman who beautifully articulates your life on video. Keep up the great work! I can't wait to hear your continuing story and where in the US you landed. Best regards from a kindred spirit in So. California ❤️ where I'm trying to cut the clutter in my retirement.😊
I’m Canadian and love US grocery stores 🏬 😂 There are so many options for EVERYTHING ❤ I even cross the border a few times a year to get stuff we don’t have here 🇨🇦🇺🇸
Oh honey, I am so sorry for the hurt from the transition and leaving your beautiful home. And I am so happy for you all as a family that you have prioritized your "family time" and made the decision to move with your husband-and thankful for his new job! As a railroad wife, we have spent the majority of our 20 years of marriage with my husband working away or living away from home and me being a "solo" parent (you know, not single parent, but the only parent home to handle all the things, make all the decisions, run all the errands, go to all the appts., be at all of the games, pay all the bills, help with all the homework and make all the meals all alone). It's hard. Wish you all the best of luck and so glad to see the channel up and going again!
At 39 I had to start all over. I pack all my stuff, quit my corporate job in a huge city and move to the forest. I had a very hard time to find a job and I was almost giving up and moving back to the city. I really wanted to avoid that, so I look for a job outside my comfort zone and thankfully I found something. Life is crazy and it gives you curb balls, but the main thing is to prioritize what makes you happy.
Hugs hon! Transitions are hard especially when you put down roots after seasons of incredible loss. I’m just so thankful it wasn’t a death in the extended family and you’re still making minimalism videos. Looking forward to seeing the new chapter!
This video is so timely. My husband and I are at a T in the road in life, on a path we thought was straight. BUT we have not decluttered. And let me tell you, having so much stuff makes you feel stuck and like you have to stop and sit there paralyzed instead of making the turn and seeing what life holds next. Thank you for this valuable reminder. This was the reality check I needed to start decluttering TODAY.
We're a military family and know the bitter sweet struggles of planting new roots and time apart from loved ones. Next year we'll have lived in our 11th home in 12 years of marriage. Even though we've endured a few deployments and many detachments/trainings, we've also made huge sacrifices to keep our core family together and they've all been worth it
So, talk about "Fachkräftemangel" ! 🤨 I wish all the best for you and your family for your new adventure! Looking forward to all of your videos from the US!
Thank you for being so honest. And it’s so nice that you share your husbands perspective on work. Being self employed is not aspirational for everyone 😊
I am 36 and have lived in NC my whole life. We are moving in 8 wks to Colorado with three kids ages 7 and under. I am so nervous to leave family and start over where we know no one. That’s the scariest part. But, I’m also so excited because this is so outside my comfort zone. We want to explore out west and travel around there. I started decluttering a few months ago and a cross country move is also going to help so much with getting rid of things. Here’s to new beginnings! I can’t wait to see your future videos.
As someone who sold everything but 4 boxes and 2 suitcases to move 4,670 miles only to repeat it again 3 years later when we needed to return to our original city, I feel for you. Please keep up the channel as I enjoy your videos. We are trying to get back to minimalism to save money ourselves. We may need another move soon anyway.
I’ve found your videos and blogs so helpful, and only recently realized you had been living in Berlin. I am from the US and lived there from 2016-2021 - and I miss it so much. I wish you all the best with your new chapter and thank you for everything you’ve shared!!
I’m glad you are honoring the grief that comes with the change of life plans. I am going through a similar phase where I need to decide where to move next. When we moved to our current home two years ago, I, too, thought that we would stay here for at least 10 years. Moving one’s roots and one’s home is truly difficult, physically, emotionally and psychologically.
Thanks for letting us know you are ok. Kudos to you and family for recognizing what means the most to you. Change is a mixed bag- scary and exciting. Wishing you all the best on your transition and settling into your new life!
Of course I'm sure we'd all like to know where you're moving to in the USA! My biggest question is how you decided what to take with you - and how was it different or the same from when you packed the last time you moved overseas.
I just told my my older son that life isn’t just black and white. In the gray is where most of life happens ❤️ Prayers for all of you as you embark on another adventure. Can’t wait to hear more about it! Happy Sunday 🙂
I know how hard transcontinental moves are (I’ve done 4 myself). I’m a European living in the US. Not lying, I miss the walk-everywhere lifestyle, but I’ve learn that my attitude makes all the difference. Wishing you the best in this new chapter, and loving that you’ll be in this time zone!
You inspire me. Good for you, changing course is scary but can be the key to finding your new bliss. And I bet it was a lot easier to move than ever before since you’re carrying so much less baggage.
I started over at 55, leaving the US and moving to Europe. Traveling light is essential :) I'm so sorry you had to move back to the states. I hope your family have very happy adventures, and maybe your path will bring you back to Germany, where you can reunite with your extended family. Looking forward to your future content.
I'm so proud of you guys! Change is hard, but unhappiness is harder. Blessings on your new adventure! Heck, maybe I'll run into you here in the States and buy you a tea. Rock on! 🎉
I am an expat living in northern Germany. I have been here for many years. Jobs are a real challenge here, but I would not like to trade in the benifits to having a stable job here. The health insurance, social security, and vacation time are a real blessing for us. After about 15 years, I took a trip home to California and was shocked! It had become a garbage dump, and an endless sea of homeless people. The traffic was insane! California has become so expensive, that I would never be able to afford living there. I hope you have better luck, and a good support system in place for your family.
Home is where your heart is!!! You channel is so beautiful and it makes my life more meaningful!! Thank you!! Personally, I like new beginnings, because you take what makes you happy from your previous life and previous self, and add in new things that make you happy. Wishing you continued success and happiness!! Thank you for sharing your family and your life with us :-))
I actually missed you! I’m not a long time subscriber but it’s crazy how you’ve become a part of my Sunday morning routine. When I sit down in the morning to have coffee and just relax, I also listen to you. I’m so glad to see you again. I can see that’s it’s very emotional time for you but I’m sure you will adjust well. Home is where your family is. I am a military wife so we moved a lot. Now that my husband is retiring, I’m anticipating this will be our last move. I’m also in my 40s and starting over.
I missed you. But hoped you were just on vacation, I’m blown away at the thought you are once again moving over seas. Life is such an adventure, every step is something new. Just think of the memories you are making for your kids. I look forward to making that journey with you….. no matter the stumbling stones, hills or valleys, stress is there just so we can appreciate the positive things. I wish you every blessing and hope for all the best for you and your wonderful family. Keep those videos coming. 🦋🦋🦋
I hope it goes from being a struggle to move again to an adventure! I thought I should stop moving all the time when I turned 40 -- and moved 10 times between 40 and 50! Then I stayed in one state for 17 years (and one apartment for 11 of those years) and was afraid that meant I'm old! When I retired I started wandering again, but COVID slowed me down. I have bought my first house at age 72 and I'm dealing with the anxiety of being settled! I love it -- and miss my wandering life -- at the same time! Wishing you the best in finding your new home place.
Somehow I had the feeling it had to do with you guys moving to a new place. And was secretly hoping that all loved ones are healthy and safe (I too went through a traumatic three year period leading to this year where i unexpectedly lost my loved ones, and that makes me always only think of the worst). Good to know that is the case. Good luck to you and your family on this new beginning. You got this. And congrats to Mr.Zen for finding his ikigai!
@Jer.616 It's more of how she mentioned that the winds are changing and that there won't be videos for a while :) moving out can be a lengthy process - packing and moving might not take much, but settling in does take a lot of time. That's why
I subscribed because I want to support you! I am in a change situation and this was like a sign from God that the move of 25 min from my home is not a big deal compared to what you are going through. Hugz and wishing your family a huge success ❤
Your precious boys are learning that when life throws us for a loop (and it always does!!), your priorities remain loving and supporting each other as a family. Life is hard. I admire that you're facing this unexpected change with strength and honesty about your feelings. ❤
Wow, what a huge life change Marissa! I have been living in Spain for nearly 40 years, and moving back to the US would definitely be a major challenge. Looking forward to your future videos. Best of luck to you and your family!
Omg! I saw the title of this post and I was so worried, but I tend to listen to you when I am walking. So I had to rush through my errands so that I could listen to you. . As long as you, your husband, and the boys are ok, you guys will be fine wherever you live. Looking forward to following your next adventure.
I'm so happy that you are all safe, healthy and happy -- I was worried! I clicked on your video so fast and watched it straight away. Where have you moved to? Will you sell your home in Berlin? Will you ship the furniture you had there to your new home? How are the boys doing? How are YOU doing? So many questions!!! 😊😊😊😊
I've moved enough times to never say" I'm never gonna move again"! Good luck with your new life, you make wise decision! Looking forward to your videos.
I’ve been watching your channel for quite sometime now and I absolutely did not see that coming. Wow! As a military family, I understand constantly moving and the struggles that come along with it. You’ve had such an amazing opportunity to live in a different country, many people don’t get to experience that. I hope that this move is your best one yet. Will you be doing a tour and sharing your new house with us when you get it? Hugs to you and I wish you a smooth transition during this momentous time!
This is very relatable. I moved about 15 times with one, then two kids, and now I have three. At first I was frustrated, but then I went back to my Orthodox Christian heritage and accepted that nothing in this life is going to be permanent. It is far more important to "surf" with your important people than to hold on to "decisions". I hope you continue to share your life with us! ❤
As my wise older sister says, “this or something better “. I wish the very best for you and your family and thanks for always being so genuine. And if you find yourself in the Northern New Jersey area, I want to buy you lunch!
I was really looking forward to meet you someday in Berlin, but I am happy for you and for choosing your family over your house, I wish you luck and all the best for you ❤❤
I am one of your new subscribers and began watching because I am looking at another big life change in my 60's and need to deal with my desire to hold onto things. I understand your emotions, we moved around about 15 times before setting up our "forever" home and then eventually had to leave that behind too. I don't know if it ever gets any easier, I certainly appreciate you sharing your journey and skills!
I also had to completely start over at age 40 and it's been such a struggle, even now years down the line. But the difference for you is that you have your family with you and aren't doing it alone, this will help immensely. I wish you all the best.
Seeing the first footage of you packing up and preparing to leave got me misty-eyed...and then thinking of that picture you had of starting there forever... ❤️ Feeling for you in this change, but thrilled for your new adventure! And it will make visits with extended family all the more precious :) Looking forward to hearing more! Praying that you are able to settle in well and make new friends in your new beginning 🥰
Welcome back to the USA. I was so shocked to hear you and your family have left Germany. I felt emotional for you! I loved your flat and I can't imagine how hard it must have been to leave it. I am also excited for the fresh start for you and your film and I'm looking forward to your future videos❤️🤍💙🇺🇸
I was so glad and excited to see you back when I opened RUclips this morning. I wish you all the best with your fresh start and am looking forward to watching your videos.
I can relate so much to your experience especially on good work/financial offers versus family being together. We've gone through that long distance period (also during our second child for us) and it was overwhelming. This time around, we just moved out of our hometown of 30-years to someplace new. God knows if we'll be here for good, or like you, move back to our hometown. Thank you for sharing this video, reminds me to always be ready for the unexpected. "Life happens." Lots of love to your Zen family from Malaysia. ❤
It's great to see someone taking risks like a move overseas. We moved from Canada to England 12 years ago and have often thought whether it was the right decision for us and more importantly for our children. The excitement of a new beginning also brings with it regret for me and it's THAT emotion I wish I could resolve. Thank you for sharing that very personal and raw feeling of regret. I look forward to seeing how you work through this new life chapter.
Marissa! I have Missed your Videos! You are so inspiring! Everything will work out for you and your Beautiful Family, like it always does🙏 Blessings from Los Angeles❤
I was so worried when I first starting watching the video. So glad you and your family are ok. It will be adjustment moving again. But it sounds like the best decision for your family. Can't wait to see new videos of all your new adventures.
You’ve got this Queen. My heart hurts to see eveyone being pushed and pressured to make really rough choices to try and keep those they love healthy and safe. Hang in there/ you are a beautiful mentor and inspiration 💕
I LOVE THIS VIDEO! Such meaningful reflection. I, too, am making decision to move. Painful but necessarry - your inspiration helps a lot. Much Gratitude!!
Congrats on your big move. Last summer we moved from Germany back to the US after 6 years over there. I can really resonate with everything you shared and of all the moves I have experienced as the wife of an Army solider the one moving back to the states was by far the hardest. I also decided to reach out for Telehealth counseling and am very grateful for it. I am one year in so I know that while you are working through a lot of grief and complicated bitter sweetness it will get better. I hope to return to Europe one day and I desperately miss afternoon cafe and kuchen at the local Barbarossa, but we have kept a lot of our adopted German traditions alive and though we were never fluent(my kids were too old to enter German schools so we had to homeschool) we picked up enough to be able to speak toddler German at home even still as a way to keep that very important season of our life alive. We also do still have cafe and kuchen we just do it from home. :) Sometimes we accidentally say "morgan" to people outside of our family as an act of habit and we giggle at their confusion, but people who know us well now will actually say it back to us. How sweet is that!
Thanks again to Better Help for sponsoring this video, and click betterhelp.com/atozenlife for a 10% discount on your first month of therapy. Don't forget to drop your questions for me down below or on Instagram, and see you soon. 😘
Dear Miss, I haven't watched the video yet but I know how it feels. It feels like a huge, overwhelming challenge, to reinvent and turn your life around when you're over 40.
But, it possible because others in their 70s - 90s, have done the same.
The best advice? Just do it. Don't wait. Don't over think. Do it. And then, like a surfer surfing a wave for the first time SURF the momentum. And ENJOY the adventure.
Peace and love,
David
I remember when my kids were young and we were living paycheck to paycheck. My husband said he was going to get a second job so that we could try and save money to buy a house. I told him, “no, I rather our kids have time with you while they’re young than have a house.” Best decision. Life’s too short. 😊
Its’s true!
The family unit is more important!
However, sadly families have been looked down upon for not owning land or their own homes. Looking back I took a low ball job at the school district starting at 8,000 a year. I remember asking for a raise to keep up with inflation and I was told, “NO you don’t have and education.”, but I had the same schedule as my kids so we could live in a small town, while my husband drove 120 miles round trip everyday for 30 years.
THANK GOD WE GOT THROUGH IT!
It was rough, but all worth it today!
beautiful
So wise
how wonderful for the children to actually REMEMBER THEIR PARENT WAS AROUND!!!! why is society trying to drive a wedge between children and their families!!!
@@qwertyqwert2772 because its profitable
I'm so glad Mr Zen has found a job that he enjoys again!!! Sending many well wishes to your family!
Aren’t the ups and downs of life amazing!?! I’m 70 years old and I’ve sold everything and moved about 4 times! It’s an amazing learning lesson each time! I can’t wait to hear about your experiences! 💕
I'm 59. I moved from the US to the UK in my early 40s to start a new life. 8 years later my husband and I split and I moved to Ireland to start over yet again. Now 9 years later I find myself ending a chapter yet again. I'll be moving back to the UK again. Being a minimalist sure does make these international moves easier! And yes, we get better at handling the curve balls each time!
My dad is also 70 years old and turning 71 years old this November and he has 3 grown adult 👨 children but no grandchildren yet.
I'm 70 also and have lost count of the times that I have moved. My husband and I were talking the other evening about a time we were renting a small apartment in a big new city. At the time it was all hard work. But looking back, we had so many good times there, so many great memories, we realised that it was one of the BEST times of our lives! It's not about WHERE you are, it's WHO you are with.
Thanks for being so real. Seeing a influencer who doesn’t have it all figured out and is genuine is so appreciated in todays culture 🙌🏼🙏🏼💕
40 years old, 50 years old, 60 years old....changes are constant. Be flexible.
‘Change is the only constant’ - long time subscriber here. I have also learned, in my 82 years, that excitement and trepidation share the same very thin line. So glad you are landing on the excitement side for your new family adventure. Definitely A to Zen. 😘 I’ll be Watching and applauding you all the way. Much love… Susan
I’m looking at the prospect of starting over again at the age of 45 - my partner of last 22 years has just dropped the bombshell that our relationship is over! So yeah, daunting, emotional, upsetting, all that and then some! Doing it all on my own with complex health/medical/invisible disabilities is scaring the begeezus out of me!
Every morning, make a point of consciously stopping, looking yourself in the eye in a mirror, and tell yourself "You got this." Say it like you *mean* it. It may sound corny, but it *will* help keep the fear & concern in proper perspective. Best of luck to you!
45 is a good age.
I was in your shoes 8 years ago. It's not easy, but you can do it. Find a good church, mine is tiny, and a good ladies group. We all occasionally need some help. A good church is a great place to find it.
God bless.
Sorry to hear about your bombshell… sounds like there’s a lot of that going around these days! If I were you, I’d think of what makes you happy, passionate… and jump in! don’t ask for permission or apologize… you put in 22 years, live for you now ❤
Wherever you go
Whatever you do
Please do not stop this Channel.... ❤
I'm so emotional watching this, on your behalf, but also because I just turned 40 and we are going to be starting over in a new city soon after 10 years in our first home together. We have a lot of feelings about it. Here's to new adventures!
We’re 41, married 10 years and moving to a new state as well in 2024! Good luck on your next adventure!!
I’m joining the 40s and starting over with a big move club too, this comment section must be full of us!! Moving from US to Australia in a few weeks. Good luck to us all!!
43 wishing to move not sure where...
I clicked on this so fast. I'm so glad everything is ok! I gotta say fair play for putting your family first! Well done 👏 you've got this! Lots of love from Ireland 🇮🇪
I did as well! I knew something wasn't 'quite right.' But SO glad that everything is ok!
40 is still young. You and your family will do great.
I am 53 and moved, for the 17th time, 3 years ago.
4 children, 30 years of marriage, 6 different countries.
Every time I moved, I honestly thought it was the last time.
Now, I don't care, I go with the flow! 😊
sometimes that little fantasy of staying put is what gets us through the adjustment, but us humans we are pretty resilient! I'm 65 and the changes don't suddenly stop... not one bit!
I am moving to a new country again. Your comment is encouraging.
I've been in one country now for almost 6 years and it's killing me lol. Variety is good.
HARE Krishna 🎉😂❤
😂😂😂 My husband and I have moved so many times as well! We have four kids now, and only the last two moves have we declared as the last move! But who knows! 😂 We're already talking about elsewhere. I'm aching to get us abroad! 🤞❤
As someone who lived in Germany around the same time (2019-2021), I would love to hear about your reverse culture shock when moving back to the States! For me it was the grocery shopping and seeing people with overly packed carts, the huge trucks on the road, and the wide parking spots. Logically, I knew they existed, but seeing it again every day was jarring!
When I visited Germany years ago, I had to rent a car. Being in a foreign country, I wanted a car that was similar in size to mine at home so I'd feel comfortable. Little did I know that I should have gotten a small car just due to the size of the parking spaces.
I’ve never left North America, & I’m overwhelmed by the insanity. Just last week, while sitting parked, the guy next to me backs out, in his 20’ mega sized truck, while the guy behind him is backing out in his oversized pickup, & they collided. I see near collisions all the time, but that was in slow-mo.
I drive a tiny pickup, & have literally been closed in a parking spot by 4 extra long trucks parked next to & behind me, unable to move more than 2’.
And lately there appears to be a trend of making right turns from left lanes.. at red lights… in front of cars waiting on green. Same behavior whenever there’s a school bus with flashing lights. I see this every day, & I’m in a town of about 12,000.
Yes! Total culture shock!! Lack of people walking too
I have not left the United States but moved from a large packed city to a small mountain town. I had been followed home at Christmas and they tried unsuccessfully to get into my locked car, I had a flasher jump on the hood of my car. and other random things that happen in a city. I had aquired a personal safety device which broke when I moved. My stress level instantly went down after the move. It is jarring when I have to travel to a big city.
@@schnder1I'm glad you're safe now! I'm sure you've got an army of people who have your back if something ever goes wrong! Small town people take care of each other!
I want to hug you! We just moved back to the US from being in Portugal for 2 years. I totally feel you on the grief and mourning. So many feelings!!! Hugs! God Bless You!!
You had me concerned you were splitting up! The Lord is opening a new chapter in your life: your husband is fulfilled, your kids have learned amazing life skills that will serve them well in their lives, you are successful in what you do PLUS have content for weeks! It is a blessing you have each other as support. I love watching your family --- your book is still being written
I relate to this so much! I've moved 14 times in the last 10 years and it's mentally tolling to pick up your life and start over so often. But at the same time it's a nice reset button to declutter your life. I've learned that home is not where you put your things down but where your family is. Happy for you and the decisions you've made for your family!
It's going to be alright. Trust the universe!
Having been in your shoes throughout my husband's career, I know what you're feeling. The positivity you are exuding is the right way to approach this change and allowing yourself to grieve is a necessity. New adventures await you and your family - enjoy!!
Change is so scary! I'm proud of you for being open to change and getting help along the way! ❤
I’m happy your family is still together. I hope you find a way to keep your sons German so they don’t lose it. They say if you learn language while in elementary school you can get the accent down to native.
Only the accent though. It's actually the proficiency of the native language that determines that of the foreign language.
I spent over half of my life moving every few years with my spouse and kids. I really disliked repeatedly basically starting over repeatedly but we saw so many amazing places and met great people. I don’t regret a single move because of the life experiences is gave us all. I think it helped my children be able to relate to so many different types of people. This is going to be a great new adventure
Same. Military family. We have never been in any one place long enough to put down roots. It builds character and broadens your world, though.
I so appreciate you and your videos - your openness and non judgement has served as a great source of support for me. My husband and I this year minimized our belongings (by 90%) and moved to Portugal. Your kindness and positive attitude will serve you well as you settle into a new chapter in Chicago. Wishing you and your family much happiness! (I have shared your channel with at least 10 friends!)
Hi Lori, thanks so much for your kind words, shares, and generous support - I truly appreciate all of it!!! Wishing you all the best in Portugal 🙏
I would never presume to tell you what to do, but if you can look at it as the next chapter vs starting over, you will realize (more comfortably for your emotions) that you’re writing your one big book of life, and not a library of different stories.
Welcome home!!!
I also had to leave Germany bc I couldn’t get another job. It was my life’s goal. Now I am working to find a new life goal in the US :/ You are resilient! And you have each other
I cannot wait to see your future videos on how you managed to declutter, sell, and pack your belongings once again. Wishing you and your family continued strength on this new chapter back in the US! ❤️
I just turned 68. I lived in Germany for a year when 33, so I know the changes your going through. So many options at the grocery store, for one. I married at 35, 1st child 38, 2nd at 41, divorced '03, still live with ex. Life is full of changes, and ups and downs. That's what makes it challenging. You're a strong self-assured woman who beautifully articulates your life on video. Keep up the great work! I can't wait to hear your continuing story and where in the US you landed. Best regards from a kindred spirit in So. California ❤️ where I'm trying to cut the clutter in my retirement.😊
I’m Canadian and love US grocery stores 🏬 😂 There are so many options for EVERYTHING ❤ I even cross the border a few times a year to get stuff we don’t have here 🇨🇦🇺🇸
Oh my God, this is me! I'm 40 and just moved back to the UK after 8 years in Canada. Starting over again is so hard.
All the best with your transition.
So many people are leaving Canada 🇨🇦 😢
Oh honey, I am so sorry for the hurt from the transition and leaving your beautiful home. And I am so happy for you all as a family that you have prioritized your "family time" and made the decision to move with your husband-and thankful for his new job! As a railroad wife, we have spent the majority of our 20 years of marriage with my husband working away or living away from home and me being a "solo" parent (you know, not single parent, but the only parent home to handle all the things, make all the decisions, run all the errands, go to all the appts., be at all of the games, pay all the bills, help with all the homework and make all the meals all alone). It's hard. Wish you all the best of luck and so glad to see the channel up and going again!
At 39 I had to start all over. I pack all my stuff, quit my corporate job in a huge city and move to the forest. I had a very hard time to find a job and I was almost giving up and moving back to the city. I really wanted to avoid that, so I look for a job outside my comfort zone and thankfully I found something. Life is crazy and it gives you curb balls, but the main thing is to prioritize what makes you happy.
Hugs hon! Transitions are hard especially when you put down roots after seasons of incredible loss. I’m just so thankful it wasn’t a death in the extended family and you’re still making minimalism videos. Looking forward to seeing the new chapter!
This video is so timely. My husband and I are at a T in the road in life, on a path we thought was straight. BUT we have not decluttered. And let me tell you, having so much stuff makes you feel stuck and like you have to stop and sit there paralyzed instead of making the turn and seeing what life holds next. Thank you for this valuable reminder. This was the reality check I needed to start decluttering TODAY.
We're a military family and know the bitter sweet struggles of planting new roots and time apart from loved ones. Next year we'll have lived in our 11th home in 12 years of marriage. Even though we've endured a few deployments and many detachments/trainings, we've also made huge sacrifices to keep our core family together and they've all been worth it
Thank you for your family’s service ❤
HARE Krishna ❤🎉
Good luck with everything ❤
I’ve been missing you and this explains it! Can’t wait to see what this means for the future 🙏
So, talk about "Fachkräftemangel" ! 🤨
I wish all the best for you and your family for your new adventure! Looking forward to all of your videos from the US!
Thank you for being so honest. And it’s so nice that you share your husbands perspective on work. Being self employed is not aspirational for everyone 😊
Hey, Marissa! Hope you feel better soon! ❤
I've always appreciated how genuine your content is. Looking forward being part of your new journey!
I am 36 and have lived in NC my whole life. We are moving in 8 wks to Colorado with three kids ages 7 and under. I am so nervous to leave family and start over where we know no one. That’s the scariest part. But, I’m also so excited because this is so outside my comfort zone. We want to explore out west and travel around there. I started decluttering a few months ago and a cross country move is also going to help so much with getting rid of things. Here’s to new beginnings! I can’t wait to see your future videos.
All the best wishes to you. I also lived in NC for the past 22 out of the 39 nearly 40 years of my life.
Best of luck to you! I have been thinking of you and when I saw you posted I couldn’t wait to hear what your change was!
Huge hugs !
My heart goes out to you. Sending hugs and prayers.
We did this at 46. Its just a number and living a life of purpose requires us to stay flexible. So wonderful to hear your story.🙏
As someone who sold everything but 4 boxes and 2 suitcases to move 4,670 miles only to repeat it again 3 years later when we needed to return to our original city, I feel for you. Please keep up the channel as I enjoy your videos. We are trying to get back to minimalism to save money ourselves. We may need another move soon anyway.
I’ve found your videos and blogs so helpful, and only recently realized you had been living in Berlin. I am from the US and lived there from 2016-2021 - and I miss it so much. I wish you all the best with your new chapter and thank you for everything you’ve shared!!
I thought.,, she’s giving up minimalism!🤣🤣🤣best of luck and happiness in this new adventure!
I’m glad you are honoring the grief that comes with the change of life plans. I am going through a similar phase where I need to decide where to move next. When we moved to our current home two years ago, I, too, thought that we would stay here for at least 10 years. Moving one’s roots and one’s home is truly difficult, physically, emotionally and psychologically.
加油，一切都會越來越好的，誠心的祝福妳與妳的家人在美國的新生活一切順心，健康平安。 來自台灣的祝福❤
Exciting times ahead for you - best wishes for your new chapter- looking forward to your updates
Thanks for letting us know you are ok. Kudos to you and family for recognizing what means the most to you. Change is a mixed bag- scary and exciting. Wishing you all the best on your transition and settling into your new life!
Of course I'm sure we'd all like to know where you're moving to in the USA! My biggest question is how you decided what to take with you - and how was it different or the same from when you packed the last time you moved overseas.
I just told my my older son that life isn’t just black and white. In the gray is where most of life happens ❤️ Prayers for all of you as you embark on another adventure. Can’t wait to hear more about it! Happy Sunday 🙂
I know how hard transcontinental moves are (I’ve done 4 myself). I’m a European living in the US. Not lying, I miss the walk-everywhere lifestyle, but I’ve learn that my attitude makes all the difference. Wishing you the best in this new chapter, and loving that you’ll be in this time zone!
You inspire me. Good for you, changing course is scary but can be the key to finding your new bliss. And I bet it was a lot easier to move than ever before since you’re carrying so much less baggage.
Wow! Thanks for the update. I wish all the best for you and your family. take care
I started over at 55, leaving the US and moving to Europe. Traveling light is essential :) I'm so sorry you had to move back to the states. I hope your family have very happy adventures, and maybe your path will bring you back to Germany, where you can reunite with your extended family. Looking forward to your future content.
Really excited to hear about your journey.
I'm so proud of you guys! Change is hard, but unhappiness is harder. Blessings on your new adventure! Heck, maybe I'll run into you here in the States and buy you a tea. Rock on! 🎉
Q: How did you declutter furniture? How did you decide what you wanted to sell and re-buy or pack with you (dishes, pans, etc)?
I am an expat living in northern Germany. I have been here for many years. Jobs are a real challenge here, but I would not like to trade in the benifits to having a stable job here. The health insurance, social security, and vacation time are a real blessing for us.
After about 15 years, I took a trip home to California and was shocked! It had become a garbage dump, and an endless sea of homeless people. The traffic was insane! California has become so expensive, that I would never be able to afford living there. I hope you have better luck, and a good support system in place for your family.
Home is where your heart is!!!
You channel is so beautiful and it makes my life more meaningful!! Thank you!!
Personally, I like new beginnings, because you take what makes you happy from your previous life and previous self, and add in new things that make you happy.
Wishing you continued success and happiness!! Thank you for sharing your family and your life with us :-))
Thank you for sharing thins ❤
I actually missed you! I’m not a long time subscriber but it’s crazy how you’ve become a part of my Sunday morning routine. When I sit down in the morning to have coffee and just relax, I also listen to you. I’m so glad to see you again. I can see that’s it’s very emotional time for you but I’m sure you will adjust well. Home is where your family is. I am a military wife so we moved a lot. Now that my husband is retiring, I’m anticipating this will be our last move. I’m also in my 40s and starting over.
I missed you. But hoped you were just on vacation, I’m blown away at the thought you are once again moving over seas. Life is such an adventure, every step is something new. Just think of the memories you are making for your kids. I look forward to making that journey with you….. no matter the stumbling stones, hills or valleys, stress is there just so we can appreciate the positive things. I wish you every blessing and hope for all the best for you and your wonderful family. Keep those videos coming. 🦋🦋🦋
I hope it goes from being a struggle to move again to an adventure! I thought I should stop moving all the time when I turned 40 -- and moved 10 times between 40 and 50! Then I stayed in one state for 17 years (and one apartment for 11 of those years) and was afraid that meant I'm old! When I retired I started wandering again, but COVID slowed me down. I have bought my first house at age 72 and I'm dealing with the anxiety of being settled! I love it -- and miss my wandering life -- at the same time! Wishing you the best in finding your new home place.
Somehow I had the feeling it had to do with you guys moving to a new place. And was secretly hoping that all loved ones are healthy and safe (I too went through a traumatic three year period leading to this year where i unexpectedly lost my loved ones, and that makes me always only think of the worst). Good to know that is the case.
Good luck to you and your family on this new beginning. You got this. And congrats to Mr.Zen for finding his ikigai!
How did you have this feeling? I had no clue! 😊
@Jer.616 It's more of how she mentioned that the winds are changing and that there won't be videos for a while :) moving out can be a lengthy process - packing and moving might not take much, but settling in does take a lot of time. That's why
@@solitarypilot1482 oh, I don't remember hearing her say the winds are changing and there won't be videos for a while. 🤷
@@Jer.616 ah no she did not say it in any video 😂. It was the community post that I was talking about
@@solitarypilot1482 Oh! Ok!
I subscribed because I want to support you! I am in a change situation and this was like a sign from God that the move of 25 min from my home is not a big deal compared to what you are going through. Hugz and wishing your family a huge success ❤
I love that your husband listens to his intuition. 🎉
Mine is returning to America after 6 years in Europe.🎉🎉
Your precious boys are learning that when life throws us for a loop (and it always does!!), your priorities remain loving and supporting each other as a family. Life is hard. I admire that you're facing this unexpected change with strength and honesty about your feelings. ❤
Wow, what a huge life change Marissa! I have been living in Spain for nearly 40 years, and moving back to the US would definitely be a major challenge. Looking forward to your future videos. Best of luck to you and your family!
I'm starting over at 41 by separating from my partner of more than 20 years and moving across the US back into my family's home. Life happens.
That’s huge! Best wishes to you!! 💕
Omg! I saw the title of this post and I was so worried, but I tend to listen to you when I am walking. So I had to rush through my errands so that I could listen to you. . As long as you, your husband, and the boys are ok, you guys will be fine wherever you live. Looking forward to following your next adventure.
When one door closes, a new one opens. Exciting times ahead!
Things happen for a reason. Way to go!
I'm so happy that you are all safe, healthy and happy -- I was worried! I clicked on your video so fast and watched it straight away. Where have you moved to? Will you sell your home in Berlin? Will you ship the furniture you had there to your new home? How are the boys doing? How are YOU doing? So many questions!!! 😊😊😊😊
I've moved enough times to never say" I'm never gonna move again"! Good luck with your new life, you make wise decision! Looking forward to your videos.
I’ve been watching your channel for quite sometime now and I absolutely did not see that coming. Wow! As a military family, I understand constantly moving and the struggles that come along with it. You’ve had such an amazing opportunity to live in a different country, many people don’t get to experience that. I hope that this move is your best one yet. Will you be doing a tour and sharing your new house with us when you get it? Hugs to you and I wish you a smooth transition during this momentous time!
As someone who barely moved and desperately want to leave the home country, I am excited to hear your journey!
This is very relatable. I moved about 15 times with one, then two kids, and now I have three. At first I was frustrated, but then I went back to my Orthodox Christian heritage and accepted that nothing in this life is going to be permanent. It is far more important to "surf" with your important people than to hold on to "decisions". I hope you continue to share your life with us! ❤
As my wise older sister says, “this or something better “. I wish the very best for you and your family and thanks for always being so genuine. And if you find yourself in the Northern New Jersey area, I want to buy you lunch!
I was really looking forward to meet you someday in Berlin, but I am happy for you and for choosing your family over your house, I wish you luck and all the best for you ❤❤
I am one of your new subscribers and began watching because I am looking at another big life change in my 60's and need to deal with my desire to hold onto things. I understand your emotions, we moved around about 15 times before setting up our "forever" home and then eventually had to leave that behind too. I don't know if it ever gets any easier, I certainly appreciate you sharing your journey and skills!
I also had to completely start over at age 40 and it's been such a struggle, even now years down the line. But the difference for you is that you have your family with you and aren't doing it alone, this will help immensely. I wish you all the best.
Seeing the first footage of you packing up and preparing to leave got me misty-eyed...and then thinking of that picture you had of starting there forever... ❤️ Feeling for you in this change, but thrilled for your new adventure! And it will make visits with extended family all the more precious :)
Looking forward to hearing more! Praying that you are able to settle in well and make new friends in your new beginning 🥰
Welcome back to the USA. I was so shocked to hear you and your family have left Germany. I felt emotional for you! I loved your flat and I can't imagine how hard it must have been to leave it. I am also excited for the fresh start for you and your film and I'm looking forward to your future videos❤️🤍💙🇺🇸
I was so glad and excited to see you back when I opened RUclips this morning. I wish you all the best with your fresh start and am looking forward to watching your videos.
I can relate so much to your experience especially on good work/financial offers versus family being together. We've gone through that long distance period (also during our second child for us) and it was overwhelming. This time around, we just moved out of our hometown of 30-years to someplace new. God knows if we'll be here for good, or like you, move back to our hometown.
Thank you for sharing this video, reminds me to always be ready for the unexpected. "Life happens."
Lots of love to your Zen family from Malaysia. ❤
What a shock!! Waiting for next video !!!🎉
Most importantly, your family is together... Your new chapter in life could be the best one after all. God bless you and your family!
It's great to see someone taking risks like a move overseas. We moved from Canada to England 12 years ago and have often thought whether it was the right decision for us and more importantly for our children. The excitement of a new beginning also brings with it regret for me and it's THAT emotion I wish I could resolve. Thank you for sharing that very personal and raw feeling of regret. I look forward to seeing how you work through this new life chapter.
Marissa! I have Missed your Videos! You are so inspiring! Everything will work out for you and your Beautiful Family, like it always does🙏 Blessings from Los Angeles❤
I was so worried when I first starting watching the video. So glad you and your family are ok. It will be adjustment moving again. But it sounds like the best decision for your family. Can't wait to see new videos of all your new adventures.
Oh wow, my family is going through the same thing for the same reasons except in reverse-we are moving from the US to Germany!
You’ve got this Queen. My heart hurts to see eveyone being pushed and pressured to make really rough choices to try and keep those they love healthy and safe. Hang in there/ you are a beautiful mentor and inspiration 💕
Enjoy your new adventure as a family. Looking forward to following your journey.
I LOVE THIS VIDEO!
Such meaningful reflection. I, too, am making decision to move. Painful but necessarry - your inspiration helps a lot. Much Gratitude!!
I can feel your sadness but your ability to stay positive, embrace the future and stay focused on your family is amazing! I wish you all the best.
Congrats on your big move. Last summer we moved from Germany back to the US after 6 years over there. I can really resonate with everything you shared and of all the moves I have experienced as the wife of an Army solider the one moving back to the states was by far the hardest. I also decided to reach out for Telehealth counseling and am very grateful for it. I am one year in so I know that while you are working through a lot of grief and complicated bitter sweetness it will get better. I hope to return to Europe one day and I desperately miss afternoon cafe and kuchen at the local Barbarossa, but we have kept a lot of our adopted German traditions alive and though we were never fluent(my kids were too old to enter German schools so we had to homeschool) we picked up enough to be able to speak toddler German at home even still as a way to keep that very important season of our life alive. We also do still have cafe and kuchen we just do it from home. :) Sometimes we accidentally say "morgan" to people outside of our family as an act of habit and we giggle at their confusion, but people who know us well now will actually say it back to us. How sweet is that!
All the best to you and your family as you begin this next chapter.
Wow! I hope you're settling in comfortably. Can't wait for the updates of your new home and adventures!