Finally ready to talk about this...

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I'm finally talking about this...opening up about starting over, grief, minimalism, decluttering, and MORE! (Let's just say NOTHING is going as planned!)
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ABOUT A TO ZEN LIFE
Along my journey to let go of 30 years of clutter, I accidentally became a minimalist and it was life-changing.
Before, I was an emotional hoarder with nothing but the clutter from lost loved ones - and $25,000 of debt - to my name. Now I have a beautiful home in Europe, a happy family, live debt-free, and - best of all - wake up to a life that I’m EXCITED to live every day.
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[@AtoZenLife]

Please give this video a like 👍 and our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit betterhelp.com/atozenlife and enjoy a special discount on your first month of therapy.

[@livnthedream123]

​@@janesally271I think I have a few more days to get to 37:48 work but I don't know if I can get it done today but I will be there around 10 or so if you want to come over and get it from me and I can get you some time off from work and then I can get you some time off from work and then I can get you some time off from work and then I can get you some time off from work and then I will be there around 10 or so if so if that works for you and if so if I would like to do something else if needed to go to the bar by then and then I would be able to come back to the house I would be fine with that I would be there around 10 if that would be ok with you and if I would be able to come back to the house around then and around then that would be ok if I would have to stop by if you would like to come back to the house I would be there around 10 around that time of the day I would be there I would be there around that time of I would and if needed I would be there I would be there thereafter so if you would like anything else else else I would be there I would be there will probably just before I would to I would and I would if you would like anything else else else

[@livnthedream123]

​@@janesally271I think I have a few more days to get to work but I don't know if I can get it done before I get home but I can

[@willdo2909]

​@@janesally271Can you give comprehensible information about what is wrong with them beyond enigmatic shouting?

[@crazy4beatles]

I love that you say USA. As someone from Latin America that is used to America referring to the whole of the continent not just one country, it’s refreshing when someone from here makes that differentiation.

[@Hopeonfyre]

Hey! It’s totally understandable given your background why you would feel overwhelmed with picking up routes and moving again :-) keep going to therapy. Do not isolate yourself, put yourself on the daily routine, even if you have to make a schedule every day. If I were you I would get out and roll through Starbucks every morning and then come home and have a daily schedule. You follow until about 4 PM and then after that let yourself relax for the rest of the night and then take the days off on the weekend :-) do you guys go to church anywhere? Maybe you could start going to a church and build some relationships that way? I am about two hours from Chicago in the housing market here is tough as well. My son had to offer $20,000 over the asking price to get his house! Praying and sending positive vibes!

[@barbara9840]

A reporter once asked a little refugee girl: "How does it feel not to have a home?" The girl answered in surprise: "We do have a home, we just dont have a house to put it in." I remember that every time I wish for another house to live in, because I do know we have a home.

[@AtoZenLife]

That is so sweet 😭

[@cynthiatarnasky38]

I love her answer, but honestly, reporters just suck. I hate how they get in people's faces and ask how they feel about something terrible that just happened to them, even children.

[@catherinegilmore2709]

LOVE that! We're a family of 6 living full time in an RV as my husband travels for work. After a year, we really are missing having our roots spread out far and deep. Needed that sage wisdom, thank you for sharing.

[@ivanpadilla4479]

That’s as beautiful as as it is sad.

[@DGUTUBE]

Wow, what a great thing to have shared.

[@anniep855]

I lost my eyesight - and then my dream career - at 35. I was blind, single and unemployed, but found my life again. It’ll get better!

[@Ms.MD7]

Omg that's terrible. I wish you well.

[@jerrychetty2524]

My prayers are for you dear ❤

[@intherockies]

What an inspiration you are, I wish you nothing but happiness moving forward.

[@Yasmin-jn8rb]

Wow! What you went through is unimaginable, yet you are still so positive! I pray that you will always be happy and healthy and be an inspiration for people! ❤❤

[@Hjg936]

Wow you’re amazing!

[@staceyo1723]

“Not all storms come to disrupt your life, some come to clear your path” - Paulo Coelho. You’ll get through this and be stronger.

[@raeraemillstone]

Oh my gosh thank you for this!! ❤❤

[@elisam.5760]

Me, going through divorce, childless at 39, two miscarriages in the past 6 months which were my last shot at motherhood, now living alone in a 280 ft² rental apartment. It’s all about perspective.

[@ariaaske]

Sending you a hug❤

[@vivicadesign]

Sending you a lot of strength ❤

[@mtracy244]

I'm sorry for your sad losses. I hope your resilience will protect you and help you move forward.💙 Shanti!

[@MyFocusVaries]

That sounds so tough. Grief takes time to process. I hope you have support. ❤

[@stephanie-fh5qv]

Im going through almost the same (although it’s passed a year now) Had to move to a rental home, childless after miscarriage and alone. I’m the same age as you. Never imagined adult life would be so depressing and filled with suffering. Just wanted to let you know you are not alone. I thought I was until I read your comment. I wish us both to hold on to hope and with time find happiness again.

[@andreagibson7355]

Marissa, It sounds like moving has triggered you of your losses. I can't imagine losing so many loved ones so close together. No time for grieving each one. Take your time and be gentle with yourself. You will find the right home, but wherever you are is your home. I lost my oldest son to a brain tumor in 1995 and sometimes the grief still comes over me. Hugs to you sweet girl.

[@AtoZenLife]

Triggered is the right word! I even started having nightmares about my family and my old house when we moved back here, I guess the feeling of loss triggered it. I’m doing better now, but it’s surprising how long this stuff can stick around! Hugs and sorry for your loss as well. 🤗 ❤️‍🩹

[@andreagibson7355]

@@AtoZenLifeWe try to put off those feelings when they happen but that just postpones the pain until it is unbearable. It will never be a convenient time, so knowing this will help you get through it next time. It does get easier with time (and I hate that phrase). Everything has it's place but where do I put the Love I used to be able to give him. In the words of Garth Brooks "I could have missed the pain, but I would have missed the dance". So glad I got to be his Mom. (feel free to delete this conversation if you feel it's too personal)

[@lmillet]

❤

[@susanwelland1088]

❤❤

[@MinkaSchlossberger4ever]

I agree ...as a German ...the scool-situation is often Not so good!

[@DonnaMacDiarmid]

Please give this a thought. You're not starting over. You're beginning something new.

[@claudiaa.1591]

You're right, it sounds so much more hopeful.

[@paisleyhunter]

I started a new life at 40. Im 13 years sober. I had to change my life 100%. Its so hard no matter what the circumstances. My heart goes out to you

[@MyFocusVaries]

That's a huge achievement.

[@moeaves]

Congratulations! I just got 29 months clean

[@miriamroxana]

5 months sober I really hope one day I can say 13 yrs too! Goals

[@paisleyhunter]

@@miriamroxana you can!! All the "one day at a time" really pays off! I'm so proud of you for 5 months!

[@paisleyhunter]

@@moeaves so freaking proud of you! That's a huge accomplishment!!

[@tracyreifkind3810]

40 is THE best age to start over! Enjoy as you move through this time :)

[@AtoZenLife]

Thanks so much for the vote of confidence, Tracy! 😄

[@KarMa-ws3ll]

I second that! I started over with 44 in a new field and its great!

[@TLC717]

I had to start over at 44 when my husband left me for a woman who was only 2 years older than his daughter. I thought it was hard then, but I'm glad I was in my 40's and not my 50's.

[@MmM20978]

​@@TLC717I lost my house to the real estate market in NH, moved to a new state had my husband file for divorce ( which is a massive change after 33 yrs and a childhood together since second grade) lost my car bc it needed an engine. Than another vechile and lost work. Not to mention a son who went wayward and recovering from the trauma of a forced abortion as a teen. I think I'd lose it if not for my strong faith!

[@DeTodoUnPoco281]

Hi Marissa, I never comment and am a bit of an infrequent viewer but I have to say I always come back to your videos because they are just so sincere and honest. No poses, no trying to be perfect, just a person on a journey to self improvement who is sharing what she knows, I love that.

[@AtoZenLife]

Thank you so much for your kind words and support! ☺️🙏

[@mydogismyheart23]

Im starting over in a different way at 40 because i had a baby and am now a single mom! Its been hard but im doing my best and loving my baby girl every day.

[@crazy4beatles]

You got this!! It’s all worth it.

[@cindland]

My husband and I had to “start over” in our mid 40s when he lost his job after we bought our first home together. The good part was it made us wake up to falling into “comfortable” and finding our best life. We realized we weren’t even really happy where we were living. We were just complacent and accepting. He couldn’t find a job where we lived without a long commute or moving anyway. So we relocated to the southern US. the cost of living was half while we doubled the size of our home and got land with it. We’re in our 69s now. We raised our own children to adulthood here and Lao added two through adoption. Hopefully you’ll find your forever home through this experience of loss and change.

[@pixi78]

A home and a house are not the same. Wherever you are…is home. Be patient with yourself. Perfection doesn’t exist! Count your blessings for your wonderful husband and children. 💕

[@JJ-nh1wf]

I moved from a place I loved. When I miss where I came from I realize I’m homesick for a place that doesn’t exist. It’s a place ive created in my mind I miss and I had to realize that it was fictional and then I could live happily in the present. Good luck. Prayers.

[@kathleenhunt7613]

Marissa, may I point out, you DO have a home, right now. It happens to be an apartment not a house - YET. Don't worry, you will get your house, but please remember you are safe and sound and surrounded by the people you love most - that makes a home in my book. Much love to you from Massachusetts. 💕

[@avaa7984]

Exactly! You do have a home. And if you make you more personal, you may feel better about it. Right now, it looks like a hotel suit where you live.

[@breezybrookshire]

This is so true, and a comforting reminder. I’ve been renting and changing houses longer than I’d like, and keeping several homey pieces to decorate from place to place creates some continuity while I wait to buy.

[@emiliaskreativeschaos9975]

I don't think that by "home" she was referring to a house specificly. I rather think she was talking about being surrounded by her husbands family in Germany and having that feeling of home. So this is more about the people than about a house or an apartment. Or at least, I think that is what she meant. 🙂

[@teresasmith5140]

I'm single, 62, no children. I've been in a 500 sq ft rental for 25 years. A rental can absolutely be a home. Think about all of the extra things you're going to have to worry about and pay for with ownership: hoa fees, insurance, property taxes, mowing the lawn, trimming the trees/bushes, blowing the leaves, what if your water heater/AC/refrigerator/electrical system breaks down. In a rental, you don't have to pay extra for any of those things. And I have a nice on site pool and work out area. You have a very nice spacious place where you are. #gratefulness

[@dasia5479]

Dear Marissa, I won't negate the significance of your losses, past and present, but I wonder if you are simply lonely. it would be entirely natural in your new situation. Your husband and children are out amongst others, and indeed there is an echo at home. You are an amazing and very likable person, maybe you can start to build a community for yourself. Hugs to you.

[@OdinsSage]

^THIS^ I believe it is both the feelings of loss and starting over compounded with the sensations of loneliness and isolation. I hope she finds a local community to spend time with to help with that.

[@itsHeatherKay]

As a military family, we move all the time, and I FEEL you about wanting your own home! ❤️😓

[@taniayoungson5614]

As a wife in a military family, I want to mention that it usually takes me 12-18 months before I really feel content with my new home. ❤ Also, I was wondering if you have a link for the puzzle mat that you and your boys were using while doing the puzzle on the floor. Thanks!

[@sharilafleur3792]

We moved almost 2 years ago after we retired. We love our new home, but the stress of all the change took us by surprise. Time does help. Even happy changes create stress.

[@LilyLightOne]

I have wanted to say this on multiple occasions watching your videos, I really appreciate that you share your emotions and don't edit out the tears (although I'm sure you probably edit some of them ❤). I'm in my 40s and learning to deal with periomenopause. It is very helpful that you normalise the expression of emotions. I appreciate you and your content so much. Congratulations on reaching 300k! 🎉

[@rebeccaroussel3405]

I'm 30, never owned a home, grew up in the country... and i am here living in a very small apartment with 2 small kids and a third on the way in a very busy city... and I am grieving along with you. We have been looking for a home for the last 5 years. It's tough... because we had so many people move in our province in canada.. and our houses were the cheapest in the country... but now, they are very expensive because of low inventory. And any other larger apartments are unaffordable for us. I get it ♡ i hear you ♡

[@thankfulelaine]

I had to leave Berlin (Stralau/F’hain) a few months into covid, and I used to watch your videos to feel like I was at home. It was like a taste of normalcy for my brain. My oldest was also in Grundschule there. Even as I type it brings tears to my eyes. Just wanted you to know there is someone else out there longing for a home and for Germany, too! ❤

[@katharinaharvell9642]

As a German who lives in the UK, I almost grieved a little bit when you returned to the US. I always got excited when I recognised little things like the architecture, or Rossmann products in your videos. I loved the fact that you felt so at home in Berlin. However, I completely get the situation with your boys' school. The German school system is unraveling at the seams. There is an acute lack of teachers, leaving those remaining under enormous pressure, in a profession where already huge numbers were suffering burnout. The infrastructure is crumbling, and they are years behind in terms of digitalisation. I have friends and relatives who teach in Germany, and they are still using chalk boards, when here in the UK, we have been using digital boards for more than 20 years. With a trend towards selfishness and less respect towards others in all areas of society, it's a perfect storm. I have often thought about returning to Germany, especially as my mum is getting older, but the thought of working in the school system is not attractive. I hope you find your solution - the option of returning when your boys are older and can enjoy a free college education is still open. Meanwhile, I hope you find a home where you feel happy soon.

[@baum7des7lebens7]

We don't use chalk boards 😆 but the lack of teachers is a big problem indeed. The speed of learning progress has slowed down significantly after 2015 and it has not improved since then because the system is not prepared to have classes with 80% students with difficulty understanding the language. Only the Ukrainian children got rooms, especially renovated and equipped with material in their language and teachers who taught them in their own language. Funny how things work once NGOs start spitting money for something. But not for all of them, sadly.

[@patriciasauermann3805]

​@@baum7des7lebens7 we actually do still use chalk boards. Not every room in every school is digital yet.

[@Elliesauter]

Hi fellow German living in Uk!

[@Christine_GoBills]

Starting over at 42 in a new state, new home and new job (once I get one) this summer. It's sooooo scary. I get it!

[@AtoZenLife]

Best wishes to you! 🙏

[@victoriaberdon542]

Wow -- 300,000 subscribers! Congratulations!

[@joyindrelie6715]

A gentle suggestion: Don't wait until the next home to learn plants, maybe you can see it as practicing now and you'll be an expert when you have your next home? I feel like plants are self-care for the home, and sometimes we have to care for the home we're in until we have the home we want. ❤️ Maybe try getting any plant that comes in a container/pot with drainage holes and put it on a saucer and place it right next to a Southern-facing window. Try watering it twice a week and see how it goes for a month or so.

[@GratitudeBelief1]

Thank you for your vulnerability. These feelings are all so normal. We will all have curveballs thrown at us at every age. Go easy on yourself.

[@georgina4874]

You can fill out your library's "request to purchase" form. They are always looking for suggestions. Or do an inter-library loan. Your library can search all of the libraries in your state and locate a book for borrowing. 😊 Amazon is cool, too.

[@mommybreakdown]

You are an inspiration as a mother, wife, and content creator. I refer often to this quote, “I ask not for lighter burdens but for broader shoulders.” I hope you find peace in the process. Cheering you on!!

[@KCallaAK]

You look beautiful with your new makeup. And really, you are beautiful inside and out.

[@freesiasage]

Sending prayers for comfort & peace ❤.

[@katwyskup5631]

Thank you so much for this video 🥰 All the best for you ! 🌷🫶🏻

[@justine835]

Congratulations on 300k it's amazing, thank you for this long video full of helpful tips. I'm crossing fingers for you to find a home soon for your family. Take care of yourself

[@msunshine4412]

Thank you for another great video! I watch you on Sundays, so, I missed you yesterday, but I was happy to find you today -yay! I welcome your helpful tips and ideas and your openness and honesty. And, don't worry, your new home will be there for you at the right time. God bless.

[@ataylor3202]

Thank YOU for another fabulous video! I find them so uplifting, you are such an empathetic, great, strong, positive lady! Hugs 🤗

[@NataschaFlamisch]

❤you have no idea HOW well I understand everything you said, sending you the biggest hug!

[@susannee.colella6109]

I am sending hugs to you. I hope you find a wonderful home wherever you land.

[@R_DLF]

My mom is starting over 74. Her husband of almost 30 yrs left her one day. Never talked to her again and was served divorce papers on their anniversary. She had to sell her home that was almost paid. Now, she living with my brother and is unable to purchase a home bc everything is so expensive. Life will settle just give it time. Home is where you feel safe and comfortable and a house you live in.

[@k9khodi363]

Thankfully, 74 is closer to being done with life.

[@klg9127]

⁠@@k9khodi363 are you serious?

[@katsilver3]

My heart goes out to your Mom.

[@R_DLF]

@@katsilver3 thank you.

[@R_DLF]

@@k9khodi363 Well, she hopes to live long and well. I hope she does too.

[@catherinetweats8050]

Thank you so much for this video, there were several topics that resonated with me and your advice/comments have come just at the right time. ❤

[@rebeccaross1715]

I love that you wear your heart on your sleeve. Never change that about yourself!💚

[@PippaPippaPippa]

Thank you so much for sharing this. My husband and I have been so good with money. We've saved up a decent down payment and have been looking for a home to buy for 5 years. And it seems like the bar just keeps getting raised and we keep getting priced out of any home we really love. You're not alone. It's truly hard out here.

[@AtoZenLife]

Fingers crossed for you too! 🤞

[@user-jw5zq2ml1o]

I so feel this. Thank you for your vulnerability in sharing. Very brave of you.

[@kathebrank]

Thank you so much for this channel, and for your emotion and vulnerability. I am happy to hear your family is adjusting, and I love that you share what you do for your mental health.

[@b___randi]

I think you absolutely nailed it! I have actually always lovey how emotional you are! It's so real and authentic and relatable. It makes me feel like it's ok to let it out too. ❤️❤️❤️

[@Tux.Penguin]

There is SO much great advice here! Thank you, Marissa. We appreciate you. ❤

[@tiffanyheger1429]

I know exactly how you feel and had to do the same several years ago when my family left Hawaii. It does get better. But it is like any loss and it’s healthy to acknowledge that.

[@sherriepiechowski4556]

My heart breaks for all the loss you have had to endure but wow I admire the strength you have to keep moving forward and teaching others the valuable lessons of a simpler life. Thank you for sharing your emotions with us- we all have our crosses to bear and it’s ok to feel emotional about the things that didn’t work out as we hoped but you also show that you don’t stay stuck there! 🤗🌷💕

[@jackimanley3056]

Oh girl same.... My husband lost his job in 2022. He searched for 4 months before finding a job that moved us 6 hours from all our family. We also thought we wouldn't have an issue buying a house because we have excellent credit and a down payment. The problem is, there's no homes in our budget! We just signed our rental lease for another year.... However, I look at my kids and my wonderful husband and I know I'm home. It wouldn't matter where we were. I think the thing I struggle with is making the space feel and look how I want to, when I can't because of rental policies. You're not alone! I homeschool 4 kids in 1000 square feet and I love minimalism! :)

[@maryswanson2412]

Marissa! So glad to see an update but so sorry you’re struggling, We’re all here for you and never worry about not sharing videos weekly. Your story has inspired and helped me so much. Stay well and sending love and hugs from a very messy imperfect home and life in CT USA ❤️😍 #marissastrong ☀️

[@sweetchocolatest]

Bless you, this video was so special. I appreciate your honesty and openness. I wish you and your family all the best in your journey towards buying a home. I understand what it feels like to have goals, to be so close but so far from achieving it. Show yourself some compassion, keep being patient and I'm sure the right property will come along. You are relatable, friendly and honest that's what makes you stand out from other channels (its a good thing so please don't change it). Thanks once again.

[@Coffeecup.0110]

I love therapy! I’m glad you’re getting some help. You’ve got this ❤❤❤

[@Amyavalon1844]

I’ve started over multiple times… seriously over 125 times. Sending you warm hugs in your new life. ❤

[@rowddyone3570]

U can do this … my mom came here from Europe in early 50s leave a life and home that she had build for 50 years and she is doing great , close to family , just look at this as exciting new chapter in your family life, the future is ahead of u, focus on family and love ❤

[@rbenjamin1429]

My siblings and I also lost our parents young and I have a lot of empathy for you! Also, years ago, I moved back to North America from Europe and the adjustment was pretty brutal. I feel for you! Hope things start to feel better. Thank you for your videos!

[@Amanda-932]

When you were talking about moving and the grief that it triggered, it resonated so much with me. Two years ago I lost my home and 90% of my belongings in a flood that devastated my city. It was an extremely challenging time, but that event forced me to examine what is important and valuable in my life. It was pretty much involuntary minimalism, lol! But I am still working on putting less time and energy into physical clutter and also mental clutter too. I always look forward to your videos, Marissa. I so appreciate your honesty, advice, and encouragement. Keep being your amazing self and best of luck with your continued house-hunting.❤

[@jfraser9011]

Marissa, the 40’s are hard. Coming from a 51 year old lol. Perimenopause coupled with the sheer amount of everyday crazy stuff that is happening in modern life today is tough! I hope you get the support you desire and deserve❤️Hang in there!

[@Erica-en2qz]

I'm only a few minutes in, but I can relate. My mom died when I was in my early 20s, and all I wanted was to cocoon, to be surrounded with a home, close family and good friends. Seems like it's been what I've been striving for all of my life and more often lately it's been out of reach.

[@rhondatallent2396]

Bless your heart! Let those tears run down your face. I've lost several family members and I can't cry. 😥I will pray you find the perfect home.

[@lesliedarwinobrienobrien1457]

Marissa, thank you for your vulnerability. Moving is hard. You are amazing and you bring light to me and to many.

[@lmo4879]

I noticed your fresh look before you mentioned it. And tearproof mascara is good for us sensitive girls :)

[@reneedumont2474]

You have definitely helped me with decluttering sentimental items. Thank you ♡

[@hollykornegay3556]

Marissa - I so appreciate your genuine, witty, approachable, occasionally teary-eyed spin on the minimalist family lifestyle. You are strong, smart and just so wonderful. This family minimalism thing is HARD, but so worth it. My kids are proof of it. Bless you, friend. And yes, I do think we are (could be!) friends! Hope you guys continue to settle in & thrive in your new locale. Hugs from GA USA - Holly

[@TheSheps14]

I absolutely love your channel and videos. You've helped me so much declutter my home, especially after the loss of quite a few family members over the last few years.

[@jenniferfloyd8486]

My heart goes out to you. My child and I were dragged all over by my ex who did not care how his decisions were affecting us. I grieved so much with each and every move because I tried so hard to put down roots. I've probably been holding onto my current home (sans ex) with a death grip because I don't ever want to feel like a nomad again. I have definitely been in the place you are in right now. I'm praying you and your family find a wonderful home in the very near future!

[@anna-mariedictson7381]

I love how authentic you are in all your videos. You seem so sweet, so it's beyond me how someone could leave rude comments on your vids! Thanks for all the great videos! They're so helpful!:)

[@findingaway5512]

We are in a really great school district with caring loving teachers. You can really feel the love they have for their students. I am glad you are in a good situation now.

[@carmybeggs7888]

Best wishes to you and your family.

[@Pfasma5]

You are a an awesome person. You sacrificed for your family and I truly believe that you will have that home that you desire as you have earned it. It is hard, but Be patient and kind to yourself and you will get there!! God bless you!

[@ninijellybeanie6853]

As someone who has had to rehome myself (lol) unexpectedly many times, I learned that HOME can mean different things at different stages of our life. You have a BEAUTIFUL FAMILY and kids are super resilient. You are so blessed! Life is an ever-changing adventure. You’ve got this!!!! ❤

[@TheM155chw]

I hope you find some peace soon in your new situation. On a plus your jacket looks lovely on you ❤

[@annehewitson2546]

Thank you Marissa for sharing your honest - and real - video about the challenges you face since returning from Gerrmany. Wishing you and your family the very best in your property search and I feel sure you will have an offer accepted soon. And 300K subscribers! Congratulations. May you continue with providing inspiring content that grows your subscriber base even further. ❤

[@kennethbailey9853]

Where ever You start You Will Be Successful in Your Endeavors. 🙂

[@erinmarshall8887]

I have never felt so seen and validated as when you mentioned the grief you are processing with moving this time. We have a very similar story in terms of a move after job loss and all the grief that followed for me. I felt like you were speaking exactly what I have been feeling. I'm longer into the journey than you timewise, and it's still hard, but we're starting to feel that sense of home again and the grief is a little less overwhelming. Hoping you find that peace soon. 💞

[@AtoZenLife]

I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve been going through similar circumstances, but I appreciate your comment and it’s always good not to feel alone in this! Sending hugs and hoping the best for your continued journey as well. ❤️ 🤗

[@erinmarshall8887]

❤️❤️❤️

[@mypianonikki8704]

Dear Marissa, Reculture shock is real. I’ve been there and I know it hits you harder than you’ve expected before moving back „home“. Just wanted to say - grant yourself time to adapt to the new situation. It’s okay to feel depressed, homesick and lost. Take good care of yourself and hug your husband and kids when your lost. They are your home wherever you might be. Please know that it might take some time to adapt to the new situation (in my case it’s been close to three years), but the dark feelings are definitely going to end. Wishing you only the best. Warm regards from 🇩🇪

[@nicolea8046]

Thank you for sharing all this! I had a similar experience repatriating to America last year after almost 10 years in Australia (husband is Aussie) with my 2 young boys (2 and 5 at the time). It has helped me a great deal, hearing about your experience coming back. Reverse culture shock is real!! My hubby and boys seem to be doing really well but I really miss our life there. I look back and wonder why we came back here. But we had a different schooling experience and for us, the primary school we attended in AU was perfect. It was so hard to leave, and now I'm really dealing with sadness and regret about the choice to come back. Hoping that it gets better with time.

[@AtoZenLife]

Thank you for sharing and I hope that for you as well ❤️

[@charminlindholm7779]

Be gentle with yourself. Layered stress and changes can feel overwhelming.

[@janethunt4037]

Life feels very weird with no parents, no matter what your age is. My heart goes out to you. I lost my last parent (and my son lost his only living grandparent) 18 years ago. I do have a brother, that I'm not close to, and my husband is an only child, so I feel the sense of "no family" at special occasions and holidays. It does make me appreciate my good friends.

[@frog90901]

Ugh, house hunting right now is a beast! It actually made me reconsider selling my house! Not much point to it if I can't find anything to buy. You've been through so much emotionally heavy stuff, it's no small wonder those tears creep up on you. Hang in there! ❤

[@shannenmcdonald6238]

I knew instantly this was Author Morey and he is one of my favorite voices from a book series I listened to The Good And Beautiful Life.... I loved listening to him :) not boring or robotic at all P.S. your make-up looks beautiful and natural 😊

[@jasminamatic]

I am sorry for the losses of your dear parents and family. 😢 You are so brave, so entreprenurial and I am sure that you will find your dream house. Being a minimalist, you might also opt for some tiny house. Keep looking, keep us posted. Hugs!

[@melaniehoffman8512]

I have said “Thank you” so many times to items and it has helped me so much.

[@angelicamason1650]

Hi Marissa. I really enjoy your channel. I am not a minimalist - I don’t like to label myself, but I do aim to live a simple life with a well ordered home. I appreciate the emotion and realistic approach you bring. You have helped me make declutterring a more regular part of my routine rather than feeling I need to set aside a large chunk of time and do a big job (resulting in putting it off).

[@ADHDqueenB]

Sending you hugs, I hope you find a home soon!

[@alexenright1743]

Love you Marisa, Im ALWAYS excited when I see you've posted a new video. When I miss you, I go back to your older videos. Keep your chin up girly. Love from Alberta xoxo

[@gloriayouchisonbrown7734]

Marissa, you will find your dream house, it’s out there waiting and in Your heart I think you know everything will work out for you and your Family. Stay strong, so happy to see you!❤

[@maryjothompson4578]

Wow! You have so many blessings. Yes, on paper, things can look so good.....

[@thereadingroom5239]

We had to buy a home last summer, and it was rough. We looked for 6 months, made multiple offers over listing, etc etc. All of the houses we offered on were getting multiple offers over listing, like $50k over listing often, and sometimes they were purchased even before the first day of the open house. It's rough out there. And looking for a house is SOOOO much work! It's like non stop researching and micro decisions and every weekend is open houses or looking at a house. Holy moly. You have all of my sympathies, and I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you all.

[@hollyhenrey5305]

Marissa, I'm sorry you are going through this hard time. Sending hugs to you. Normally, I would never comment on someone's makeup or appearance in general, however, since you asked for feedback, may I say you look LOVELY, what ever you're using is just right. Thank you for being so forthright about your life story and how you are doing. (insert extra hug here).

[@Julchen222]

Hello Marissa, I am allways surprised that you still find again and again so good and interesting contend. You help me a lot. Thank you! Kind regards

[@lctna]

Thank you very much ..feel.inspired xx❤

[@NathalieGehrold]

All the best to you to get over this grief phase.

[@LP-tu8li]

Thanks for sharing! Good video!

[@sallydansereau1270]

Congratulations on 300K 🎉. We’ll deserved. I have followed you for several years. Hang in there as you adjust to being back in North America, and good luck with your home search. I have 2 kids who are house hunting for starter homes in Canada. . It’s hard out there right now. I feel for you. ☮️🌸

[@natashatheresa]

I loved Simplicity Parenting - I did deal with the audiobook and was fine with it LOL. The content is great. Thanks for this AMA, I enjoyed catching up on what's going on with you, thank you for sharing with us!! Hugs!!

[@AnaViolinViola]

I was feeling sad for months after changing my job and career and also the country. It was a very solid and well thought through decision… but I was mourning the crash of my previous dreams. After a few months of small actions and slowly moving forward, things got much better! 😊

[@evabossuyt6288]

Moving can be hard. Your honesty and vulnerability is a great quality of yours. Missing you here in Europe. Love your video's and hope you are doing well ❤

[@tannif7455]

I've lived in Canada, Germany and now Australia and people always ask me, which out of those 3 countries was the best country to live in? I cant say, as each of those 3 countries I have lived in and currently live in Australia, have their pros and cons. I have realised home is where you make it and fortunately those 3 countries are all wonderful places to live. All 3 countries are always with me and I fondly go back to visit. I've lived in about 15 different homes over the last 49 years and I actually get restless and can easily move on as moving was a big part of my growing up. However I had a wonderful childhood and upbringing so I alwahs felt safe and happy moving. It was our next adventure. I was and still am very fortunate and I am grateful for that.

[@justusewater1]

My heart goes out to you with your international move. We moved back to the US after living abroad around the same time you did and it is a grieving process for sure. My faith has definitely been what has gotten me through. Hugs!!!

[@kristiseidel5935]

You're make up looks amazing! I totally relate to that aching desire to have a secure home. I grew up overseas in a boarding school, so that hole resides within me as well. Thanks for sharing!💙

[@terryhoffmann8652]

40s the new 20s, I'm starting over in my late 50s.

[@ellistea1024]

Heck, I’m in process at age 66!

[@patrick7228]

You mentioned giving yourself grace as advice, hope you are doing the same for yourself during tough moments. Enjoyed the vid.

[@cindywilkinson1610]

Hugs, Marissa.