LIFE UPDATE!! House Update, Green Card Lottery, and my Favourite Bolognese!

I truly can't believe we won the lottery!!
Crazy stuff! Do you have any ideas, comments suggestions for our little family?
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[@Puggleatlaw]

American healthcare lawyer here. I would very concerned about making the transition from NZ to US healthcare system. Insurance premiums are very high and LPRs cannot access government-sponsored insurance. And it’s a negatively weighted factor in the LPR process if you have a serious health condition and insufficient resources for medical insurance. Not assuming your situation, just letting you know how f’d up this country is.

[@lauramonahan9343]

So many Americans dream of moving to NZ for the smaller, simpler life. Funny to consider the other side of the coin. Best wishes.

[@Ms-nh8bk]

I am an American and it has drastically changed the last decade. High crime rate, increasing rent, failing schools is the new reality. Visiting is much different than starting a life. I would love to trade places with you and live in N.Z. !!!

[@krkmr5979]

Yes! I’m an American living in Japan for over a decade. America is almost unrecognizable now. I could see the desire to go to the US years ago, but now it’s so dangerous and everything is crumbling. Plus, the healthcare system is so expensive. If they go, I hope they choose their location carefully.

[@jillautismhomeschoolmama6994]

I think the area really matters.

[@monicamead1884]

Expat American living in NZ for last 15 years & won’t go back to live in the US for so many reasons 😢

[@jenwylie4093]

I'm a Canadian. I feel the same about Canada. The crime is insane. The school system is failing our children. We aren't as happy as we were 5 years or 10 years ago.

[@meerakeister]

@@jenwylie4093 You are comparing apples to oranges (I am American and lived in five different states from East to West, and moved to Canda and Canada is far superior in every way except shopping which is America's past time).

[@broccolista]

You guys should do a house swap with one of your followers! I bet there are tons of people who would love to move to NZ for a while and you could live in their house for a while!

[@bethu3981]

Yes, I would!! 27:09

[@mzm4245]

What a great idea!

[@wfpbprincess]

Chelsea, you have raised a fabulous daughter! She is not only absolutely gorgeous, she is smart, sweet, confident and articulate. Wow, what an accomplishment. I cannot wait to see the wonderful things she will do in her life with absolutely NO fear.

[@DianEnglish56]

Like others have said, Please research where you are thinking of moving to in the US. Also housing costs, rents, cars, food prices, gas prices, income taxes, insurance both for your car and medical expenses etc., etc. Things you have seen and done while visiting are not always a true representation of what actually goes on on a daily basis. Wishing you all the best for the future.

[@kathleenoboyle9741]

P.S. Ignore the naysayers. My mantra is, “Leap and the net will appear.” So many different cultures within the US and so much to explore. No, it’s not perfect here (no place is) if you don’t seize the opportunity, you may look back and think, “What if?” Do it while you’re young!

[@baronschie]

I moved from Austria to Iceland- a remote island with other opportunities- I’ve never regretted it but it’s a huge step because moving forward always leaves things behind. I don’t miss anything and feel blessed here but it’s a very individual choice

[@Nicole-ld1zy]

Thank you for explaining your why on wanting to move to the states. I would love to visit New Zealand one day, it looks like a beautiful country. I live in Oregon and I love this state. Be sure to do your research on each state if you do move here, they are all very different.

[@patricia7947]

So true, each state can be totally different.

[@les0101s]

Hi, I live in Oregon too and love it here.

[@traceygardner2992]

Your daughter is so precious!❤️

[@pattyfernandes976]

The opportunity you have is incredible. All countries have issues but honestly, you will love it! Just don't move to LA, truly! I've never thought or said "why would you make such a change in your life?" I want to live all around the world and would move across the world in a second! Then move far, far away again in a couple years. Live life! Explore! Travel! Enjoy adventure after adventure! Do it!!!!!

[@i2sky532]

Your daughter is so precious❤ And I, for one, hope you will come to the US.😊

[@attorney.meera.malik333]

I moved from India to the States at age 15, and then with my husband and two young kids to Canada in 2020. I have lived in New Jersey (2 years), Virginia (2 years), Pennsylvania (6 years), California (8 years), and Washington state (5 years), so I am no stranger to moving and starting life over. I would say that I agree with the sentiment some have expressed in your comments about the state of America now. I think sometimes we don't see the beauty of the place we are at and pine for newness. I would do my research and make bloody well sure that America is the right place for you. Your daughter is so wonderfully intelligent and I loved this post and listening to her talk. You seem like very kind people, and this is why I wanted to share the negatives with you, so you were going into America knowing the pitfalls:) Best wishes to you and your family in all your adventures!!

[@simonepohansimonep6300]

I’m an Australian and although I love America as a place to visit, The gun laws and shootings would totally put me off moving my family there no matter how good it is. I will miss seeing you use foods and brands that I actually recognise when you cook. Congratulations though, I know it’s what you wanted for a long time and I hope it’s e everything you’ve hoped for and more. 😊

[@kimporter953]

Your daughter is so charming and well spoken…and what a terrific smile

[@junepatschofield7602]

I am a kiwi who has lived long-term in Australia (like many other kiwi’s) so I understand about the opportunities which I enjoyed. I have lived in Mongolia and now in Switzerland. Make sure you understand and research tax, health and education implications. Moving to the States doesn’t mean that you could move back home. The move wont be easy and I have had my times and I missed my family so much but my family also encouraged me to continue to make my life - I came from a one horse town - when I went back, nothing had changed except the horse was older. Exciting times all the best xx

[@ashleamendelson1414]

I’m shocked that people tell you “why would you want to move to the USA” America is full of opportunities, we have a gorgeous country, lots to see and experience. I love my country and I know you and your family will too! ❤

[@hazy_daizee]

I’m a brand new subscriber and just discovered you a week ago on my suggested feed. I could cry with how perfect the timing is in my life and I feel so empowered and inspired by you! Thank you for all you contribute to this life ❤

[@dmat7148]

I’m a new subscriber and love that you guys are considering moving to the states. I love being American and couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. Although we do have some problems here, other countries are experiencing a lot of pressure as well. What you say about the opportunities is so very true. Lots of opportunities to succeed and grow a business. It is very different from state to state…especially from the north to the south. I’ve lived my entire life in the deep south and it’s home for me. Yes we have hot and humid weather but also a year round growing season, amazing nature and it’s usually very friendly around my hometown. I hope you make it here and wish you all the best and think your kids would enjoy the adventure.

[@JessShort]

I have lived in many states in the US. Make sure you do your research, because each state was a completely different experience. If it’s possible to do some multi-week vacations in a few of your top picks, that could provide additional insight to whatever decision you decide to make. That being said… as I got older, living closer to my parents became extremely important. Family is the most important thing in life. The joy of watching my parents interact with my kids regularly is top tier.

[@rohannawildon9729]

Omg that’s hilarious about the Christmas cards!😂 we don’t really like when we get em.. like okay okay look at you and your cute family, puppy and matching pjs 😂 Super excited for you guys !❤❤❤

[@soulfeastletters]

Love this update!!! Love your daughter! you are doing great mahi!

[@amandagates5721]

My husband and I are both self-employed Americans. Most people get health insurance from their employers. We have to buy ours. It’s garbage and so expensive and we pay thousands in co-insurance a year on top of premiums. That’s the main thing. I’d highly recommend trying to move to a city where car dependency can be minimized. Car ownership is becoming outlandishly expensive.people now pay what I paid for my house for a new car!

[@lynnealexander1200]

I’m one of those who can’t imagine wanting to leave NZ to come to the US. I guess it depends on where you’re going to live. I live in Texas and absolutely don’t like it. All I can say is pick the right state because a lot of them are not great.

[@myvillagelifeintheupperhar607]

As a Southern Oklahoman living in Northern Germany, I would have to agree with you. My German husband won the residency lottery and lived in the US for eleven years in North Texas and Southern Oklahoma. We moved to Germany six years ago. My husband misses the US, and he wants to move back. However, he doesn't want to live in Texas or Oklahoma. I also agree with picking a good state. We are considering Vermont or Maine.

[@susandurandstone4278]

I agree, now is not the time to move to the US.

[@kristinburke5849]

Yes, I grew up in the Northeast but lived in Texas for 6 years. I miss the people I became close with but am happy to be back up north. If I could live in another country I’d do it in a heartbeat because the US is going downhill fast.

[@merrieleiderman1885]

Funny, I live in Washington state and can't wait to move to Texas sometime in the next year.

[@sophiej4557]

Loved the video :D please more like it. Loved the insight of what's going on with the house and the green card situation. I am German and I can recommend the Netherlands. Great life value, in the middle of Europe, short train ride away from France, Belgium, Germany and Great Britain. People can walk and bike everywhere. Children can be safely left with friends outside. Inclusive and accessible. Forward thinking people. The sea around the corner.

[@nataliewhite9387]

Your daughter😭❤ What a good example you are to her!! Prayers for you & Nick!!😘

[@ayidas]

I am utterly fascinated by your discussion of cultural differences between NZ and USA. Please keep sharing your observations as you move through this process! Even if you start a side channel or members only newsletter to do so 🙏 It is not so common for someone from a developed country to use the green card lottery to get here. Also thanks for the update and it was nice to see your family and they shared so articulately ❤

[@jajajajaja357]

I am watching you from Europe. Living in the US has always been one of my dreams. From what has been going on in this world lately I would NEVER want to go to the USA now. The whole world has changed so much. No country is the same any more. Germany Italy USA UK France Spain Netherlands.....so much change......and always for the worse. So many things are going on and things will get worse in the future. THIS in my opinion is definitely the time to STAY in New Zealand, to stay near family and to stay in a safe and secure and financially secure place.

[@BlockodileDundee]

Congrats on the green card lottery!! I'm an Aussie, we won in 2021 and have lived in Chicago since October that year. TBH Australia is in such a state that we're really glad we moved here. Cost of living and employment opportunities at home are just... not good. I'm happy to shed light on any questions you have! And PS - I'm down almost 25lbs after joining LWP in January and appreciate everything you do!!

[@ChelseaMae]

Oh wow! That is so so fascinating and HUGE congrats on your fat loss!! Wowwwww!!! I will definitely connect with you!

[@kated5159]

Yeah, the population of my home state of PA is almost 13 million which puts things into perspective. Good luck with everything! It’s exciting news. 😃

[@bridgettehunt6193]

Chelsea! This video knocks it out of the park! Thank you for sharing your story, your feelings and family. It is so great to hear other perspectives! You and your family are amazing! Special thanks to your daughter for sharing!

[@sandyl.143]

Now that you have explained the why, I get it. I’m in the states, from Denver Colorado. You will kill it here with your business.

[@Kathleenventura]

Loved this update! Particularly appreciated the peek at the house build and the conversation with you and Nick elaborating on your line of thinking about a move to the States. Fascinating to hear your perspective on your experience in NZ compared to the potential you see for a life in the U.S. Will be keen to follow that journey and so curious to eventually learn *where*in the States you envision being the most aligned culturally/value-wise for your family . p.s. I’m the same when I prioritize protein bars: ones with chocolate on the outside always preferred 😋 those Aloha ones are such a nice treat!

[@debracodd8416]

Very excited for you! Go for it!🎉

[@Purplefoxxy13]

Definitely understand how excited your are about this opportunity to move to a new country! I am from Brazil and lived in the UK for 9 years as a child and when I went back to Brazil I always felt like a fish out of water. Then in 2021 I moved to BC, Canada and I immediately felt at home and that this is where I want to be. Things are not easy or perfect but I love living here, being so close to nature, being able to camp, I love the friends and chosen family I have found here and the awesome adventures I have been on since I moved! Also it will be awesome to have you be a little bit closer and hopefully I can join the next meetup! Keep doing the amazing work you do Chelsea, I am so happy I joined LWP and excited for my year of change!💪

[@moiradoherty73]

hi Chelsea, say hi to your mum for me, loved seeing her in the video

[@donnatecce1884]

Your daughter is growing up to be an amazing young strong minded woman. Beautiful. Your husband let me just say, you have already won the lottery. Heart. ❤ good luck in USA.

[@cmorte5]

Utah has all 4 seasons, AMAZING outdoor adventures, is VERY family focused, and has lots of nice people. Plus, Salt Lake City has tons of yummy vegan restaurants and bakeries. I'm a plant based nutritionist, and I love all the options!! If you end up here near SLC, let me know, and I'll take you and your girls on a hike with my family!

[@ChelseaMae]

Thanks for sharing! Feedback like that is very helpful. More so then just ‘don’t go here or be cautious of all the things.’ Appreciate it.

[@MyRosie2007]

And a totally right wing population!

[@adriennejohnson4201]

@chelseamae Salt Lake county is the only place to be if you're used to more progressive politics, and even then it's very slow changing. Tons of Mormons (they'll leave you alone if you're adamant about it) but seems like SL county has more ex-Mormons and the counter culture is strong, which is why I'm here 😝 I moved from California 2 years ago to Utah and I don't regret it for one second. I've gained weight from all the vegan restaurants because there are a decent amount (and even more restaurants with vegan opinions!) and they're not super healthy, but with stores like Trader Joe's, Sprouts and even Smiths having amazing vegan options, it's really easy to be vegan here.

[@Mrcmrrll]

Is there something wrong with being right wing?

[@rcfnc]

​@@Mrcmrrllthere's nothing wrong with being a conservative. I am very proud to be one.

[@mastandstars]

Lots of your fans here in the states cheering you on Keep us posted We’d love to have your family live here ❤️

[@LT-ri8rq]

Your little girl is so smart, thoughtful and wise. I mean, I'm a boomer and I am learning and inspired from this!

[@ScottishLass1950]

Hi Chelsea, you are SO very lucky and I'm sure you've all worked so very hard to get your new home exactly how you want it. It looks so so lovely. You have also so much life ahead of you unlike me with too much time behind me 😄. Don't know why I said that last bit! Anyway, I'm sure you'll all be very happy there. When do you think you'll be living there? You are such an inspiration for me and you talk so much sense - also you have taught so many people so much about the way of doing this way of eating and it's so much fun apart from making so much sense. Lots of love to you and your beautiful girls and your lovely husband. love and gentle hugs from a Scottish woman who now lives in England. You help me how to feel more positive and have given me a 'can do' way of looking at the things I now do. 💜 xxx

[@sylviaeneriz4808]

I loved listening to your daughter, she is intelligent, well spoken and wise!❤

[@oliveohyeah]

I liked the life update! I hope you keep doing them occasionally. I would love to see your house once it's a bit further along.

[@kathleenoboyle9741]

DO IT!!! I moved to Japan right out of college. Didn’t speak a word of Japanese, but did have a few college friends there. That adventure changed my perspective SO much. You have friends here in the US, and people here are friendly and helpful. Please don’t miss out on this adventure for you, your husband and children. What’s the worst that could happen? You can always return to NZ. Just be prepared to answer the same questions over and over again. Americans are like big, friendly dogs when they hear an accent like yours and when they find out where you are from, you’ll become the neighborhood celebrities. I SO hope you’ll take the leap!

[@susandurandstone4278]

There are some pretty “worse” that can happen . I’ve been living in the US all of my 65 years. Not the place to move to now. Especially if you have health issues.

[@merrill997]

Very exciting times! Congratulations!

[@dtfrnyindc8739]

I love this update, congratulations on the lottery!!! America has a great deal to offer, you should do it. My tip for you as you consider it is, keep that beautiful line of communication open with your spouse and include the rest of your family. At the end of the day, this is your decision and YOU are the people who will have to live with it. Yes, there are changes here, but every place is changing. You know how to keep your family healthy, happy and safe. Be well, thank you for sharing!

[@joywhitley3141]

Chelsea, we'd love to have you and your family in America! ❤ God bless you.

[@florl.delgado4093]

Wishing sll you guys THE BEST!!! GOD COVER YOU ALL, YOU'RE GOOD PEOPLE!❤

[@monicamead1884]

Congrats on the home build!!! That’s very exciting!!!!

[@MirandaHorger]

How exciting! There are good and bad points with every place. Despite many problems in America, it's still a wonderful environment where people come to succeed and give their families more opportunity. Best of luck to you with the house build and possible relocation!

[@swifty_thrift]

Definitely liking this kind of content- just makes you and your lifestyle seem more real when we see the real life things happening in your life.

[@lauriehoer8605]

I'm from the States but we raised our 4 children in Asia (China, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan). There is nothing more expanding and exciting than living in different countries and experiencing different cultures!! We all loved it and now that our kids are grown, the two of us have been enjoying doing humanitarian missions in the Middle East. I say, Just Go For It!!!

[@savannahweymouth7370]

Chelsea you could totally publish a cookbook!!!! I would buy it and I’m not even vegan…

[@stephaniefunrun]

Regarding the Xmas cards: I am American but have lived in Europe many years and have heard that reaction to the cards. But I absolutely love them! I love so much seeing my Friends and family and reading the letter updates on their year. Sure it’s mainly the positive stuff, but it’s always fun and interesting to read. I never ever considered it egotistical. I see it as sharing. It’s like a happy happy Facebook experience.

[@ChelseaMae]

I love the idea of it. It’s just so foreign!

[@bobbie5022]

Lol. I have lived in the States my whole life and I think its weird when people give pictures of themselves at Christmas...not family...but I have received several from coworkers. Its like why? 😂😂 I am a fan of the life update, it was fun, you seemed more relaxed. ❤️

[@msicottevt]

Ohhhh I love her!!!! What an eloquent, bright child!!! Good JOB mom! Girl moms of the world unite 😁🙌🏻💕

[@brendaiaquinta8959]

Hope you and Nick find your way....there is so much good and right with America. It's quite diverse in all directions . I'm sure you'll make the decision that is right for you❤

[@andreabruce9206]

I loved this video including your daughter on it talking about self assurance and confidence was precious what an article young lady she is!!!I wish you the best of luck with your plan of moving to the states I ve been living here for the past 20 years ,and it is a great place to befit is true it has changed in the last decade!,but so has the world!!!.every country has its issues.Nowhere is perfect, with your attitude you will make the most out of anything!!What a great experience for your beautiful family!!.Goos luck Chelsea!!

[@kimimarlowe5826]

I’m so happy for you guys. You deserve everything! You work so hard and your children are a real credit to you both. Best of luck with everything ❤xx

[@shanniwelsh133]

The US is so vast and each state is a little bit like it’s own little country with various laws. As a woman who has daughters, I would recommend that you really research the laws in each state. Many of the states in this country are becoming restrictive for women. My husband immigrated here about 28 years ago and I remember the green card process. It is a bit crazy.

[@smclark280]

Oh, Chelsea, how exciting for you and Nick! I appreciate you both sharing your thoughts and feelings regarding a potential move. I am a (proud) American and we often see the negative around us and in the news. And there is too much negative to see! However, there is also beauty and kindness and opportunities!! I trust you ARE doing your research and exploring the areas where y'all might live. You are so blessed to know some Americans and have them as resources. I wish you the best in this process. :) Also, that bolognese looks amazingly delicious!! And, your dear, articulate, thoughtful daughter is precious!! Props to you, parents! And...your work-in-progress house looks terrific!! :) Looking forward to future updates.

[@antiquelady60]

I've lived in the U.S. my entire life. There are pros and cons like every other country in the world. I understand wanting to live in a place that is very different from the one in which you grew up and I know that you and your family will grow from the experience. I wish you all the best!

[@cindydee3026]

A move across the world to the United States is an amazing adventure! For all the reasons that you described I can see why you would want to venture in that direction. Keeping in mind that Healthcare in the US is not at all what it is in New zealand, along with many other countries. It is just something to keep in mind when planning a move such as this. The cost of care and even getting medical insurance coverage, especially with a pre-existing condition can be crippling.

[@mdammanna100]

Good for you. Very happy for you. Thank you for sharing. Embark on the journey to America. I came from India and it was a drastic change but it turned out well for us.

[@adriennejohnson4201]

Do what's best for you and your family! Thank you for your candid honesty in this video. I'm from California (Bay Area) and I moved to Utah 2 years ago and I'm very happy with the move! Salt Lake City is small compared to what im used to but that's part of why I love it. Its easy for me to be vegan here and the mountains are so gorgeous and close by. I'm so much more active here than I was in California, rock climbing and rollerblading at the park and ecstatic dance and hiking, I love it.

[@Trainfeastfast]

Left America 8 years ago. Florida is making some horrific changes. Leaving… Best decision EVER!!! I’m an American, and school shootings and the crime rate has become a serious epidemic. There’s another KZbinr that moved from Boston back home to London for the same reasons. Taxes, healthcare, cost of living are all astronomical. Research all this before going there. Can’t pay me to move back. I also have M.S. and the health care is horrific. There are so many better options. So many better countries with opportunities in health and wellness space. I for one, am thrilled I got my children out of the United States. With that said… Do whatever makes you happy.

[@meganfrazier]

Thanks for sharing updates on your life! I grew up in America and agree with others. It’s a vastly different country state to state and even city to city in some states. Cost of living is a lot lower in the less progressive states. And the lower states also have the most friendly people but definitely not the most health conscious. Figure out what’s most important to you and know that every area will come with challenges. I’ll be rooting for you!

[@clarecunningham4457]

As a Brit who came to NZ with little kids - I am so glad that I did! I think it’s the best place to bring up a family. I do miss some of the history and travel etc from Europe - as well as cheap groceries. My hubby does a competitive job though and the tall poppy syndrome limits him and his desire to push boundaries at work. We would consider university abroad for our kids when they are older.

[@danajeanm]

I wish you the best! There are alot of opportunities in America. Its terribly hard to pick up roots and move. I've moved from NJ to California and lived there for 33 years and then moved back to the east coast and it was ... IS hard again but its great to try what one's heart calls for. And I have learned and grown in great ways. Go for it! Good Luck!

[@dbdowst]

The USA is a truly amazing country with so many different parts and opportunities. I’ve traveled the world extensively and while I love so many other parts of the world I can’t imagine wanting to live anywhere else. I’m sorry you have been met with skepticism on your decision to want it, move to the USA. I think you have visited enough to know it’s a really amazing place.

[@ahiggins]

Congratulations on winning the lottery!! What a great opportunity to experience exactly what you want, something, some place new. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to live on different continents with my daughter and my then partner and what an amazing experience it was. Such an eye opener to what you may think is better by immersing yourself in another country. I will never forget the lessons learnt or the experiences we had and the best part was coming back to my home country and feeling so lucky at what I always had. Your country will always be there for your return. Explore, make memories and enrich your life. Wishing you all the best in your decisions, only you can know what is right for you. ❤

[@lindsaytoussaint]

That really put things into perspective for me on NZs size. I live in a city of 8mil people… just the city 😅 so hearing 5mil really blew my mind - idk why I mean I know NZ is small but still! Anyway if you do move, choose a coastal state or maybe Denver or Chicago. Get ready for a LOT of culture shock. Don’t bother with getting a TV 😂😅

[@meaganapon4070]

Loved this video! I like to know stuff about the lives of people I take advice from. Still can’t fathom why you would want to move to the US. Canada is pretty awesome….😆 I’m a new follower of yours, discovered you through Broccoli Mom and am loving your channel and finding it super helpful and inspiring.

[@sandrabonagura809]

I am an American and while not perfect, no country is, it is an amazing place and I have traveled. I am always happy to visit other places but arriving back is great! Lots of opportunity!

[@racheledwards1727]

So excited for your family! There will be pros and cons in either scenario. Wanting to stretch and go outside your comfort zone is a good enough reason! I echo what others are saying, research the states you are interested in and drawn to. I’m from southern CA ,San Diego, and live in Utah now. We loved both. Can’t beat the weather in SD. Utah is family friendly and slightly more affordable (although that is changing) and has all 4 seasons. California has beach/skate vibe that seems to jive with your fam. Good luck! Excited to hear about your decisions and adventures!

[@techidna-h9t]

I love what you are doing, Chelsea. But you will succeed wherever you are in the world!

[@jadefee3577]

With love and encouragement, make sure you're prepared for health care/insurance ❤ Fingers crossed for this next stage in your journey!

[@aimeeclark228]

My take away from this video is this…. You are an amazing mom… and your kids are wonderful, and well rounded.. well done Chelsea!.. all the best to you and your family🙏❤️no matter where you live..xo

[@M4kingThingsH4ppen]

Congratulations! 🎉

[@ScottishLass1950]

Hi it's me again. I didn't realise you weren't actually living there. Back in 1983 I took my 14 yr old daughter and 7 year old son and it really did expand the horizons of our lives. I was 33 years old - don't know how I did it then but we still call it home after having come back to the U.K. in 1989. No regrets learned a new language and to this day we still speak Spanish between ourselves. Sorry I've gone on so long but, just want to say if you don't try you'll probably regret not at least trying it. Good luck guys and hope you are the 'chosen few'. Positivity as you have in bucket loads - will get your dream. x Angels are looking after you and yours. Please don't think I'm weird, I've just had so many things happen to me and I even have a Parking Angel who always gets me a parking space every single time as I have Fibromyalgia and need to be close to where I'm going to be walking. Don't forget to ask them on your way to parking... I must sound weird to you but it comes from a truthful and loving place. I have NEVER written such long posts to anyone before - x

[@jkoerner23]

Just be aware that once you’ve become part of the green card/permanent resident system in the U.S. you could be shackled to the U.S. tax system for life in that if you move back to NZ you’ll still have to file US taxes, so do your research on that. I’m a U.S. citizen living permanently in NZ and even though I don’t have to pay US taxes the yearly filing requirements are costly and onerous for expats. And there’s the FBAR filing requirement too. It’s not a decision to take lightly for sure and could affect tax stuff for your kids too for life.

[@anjihc8797]

Do your research on health insurance in the states. I would never move there due to the costs of health insurance and the deductible and companies trying to not pay. But of you make great money, you may be okay.

[@calligoblue8436]

I have a friend who owns his own business and makes 80 grand a year and he still cannot afford health insurance just for himself. Small business does not get healthcare.

[@amblyommaamericanum6590]

Yep. I pay nearly $500 a month. The company still doesn't cover my medication. In fact, I get my medication cheaper without insurance at my current pharmacy.

[@magikfrog2]

Agree, we don’t have any health insurance.

[@mikaspiral]

I have moved from Italy to UK 10 years ago and any English person think I’m crazy because i left a beautiful sunny country for the Gloomy London, but i have never been happier in my life! So if your heart says yes guys, just go for it. Of course you will miss your family but it’s going to be amazing to move in new country with loads of possibilities. Best Wishes!

[@jenw1116]

I really enjoyed that! My biggest fear with moving overseas would be health. I have endometriosis and have used my insurance to have 2 surgeries because of it, I also have ADHD and my son is autistic. I'd be so scared we wouldn’t be taken care of overseas like we are here in NZ. How will you manage that with Nick's MS?

[@lauravalle3766]

This is what I worry about them as well. Not sure how they will afford the health insurance, co pays, differences in cost of healthy food, and all the other elevated costs for Americans - rent and transportation for starters.

[@lmharper1]

How exciting!

[@brendaleick]

Our dear friends here in America, think of our families as an extension of their family. So those family pictures are like getting special pictures of your parents or siblings. Most of us frame those Christmas photos and place them around the house. OR on the front of our refrigerators in a magnetic frames. As an American and 5th generation northern Californian, I just want to say I love the idea of your lovely family being part of US, in the U. S. Come and be part of us! Blessings on your exciting journey.

[@cindraamundsen2197]

Congratulations on winning the lottery! I love living in the US (New Hampshire) and feel very blessed.❤

[@janicezdogtraining]

I just want to echo, as a self-employed person, that you should consider doing your due diligence with regards to medical insurance. Most states have some kind of “health insurance exchange” where you can run some scenarios and see the cost of various plans. Some states provide tax rebates to help with the cost of premiums. We pay about $1200/month for two adults and each have $9000 in out of pocket costs before the insurance company starts reimbursing us. Since we live in Vermont, we get a tax credit to cover some of the cost of the monthly premium. When we lived in Massachusetts, we didn’t get any kind of tax credit (none offered). Under “Obamacare,” the Affordable Healthcare Act, people can’t be denied insurance because of pre-existing conditions. However, the premiums can be astromonical. Dental insurance - no tax credits available. Please, due your due diligence! We make decent incomes as self-employed people and sweat every medical bill.

[@jillponce7]

How exciting! You should finish your house in NZ and then offer it up as an Air BNB location so people can come visit your country and not have to stay in a hotel. Also, you will make money off of it. On the other side, being here in America has changed over the years. We have been split into two different political camps that are basically the polar opposite of each other and the events here in America in the last 5-8 years have not been for the better. But one thing is correct, you can certainly capitalize on your dreams- owning your own business, whatever you want. Each state has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, not all of Texas is bad. I”m from there, but wouldn’t go back due to the humidity and the weather. I currently live in Arizona which is a “dry heat” and in the desert, but wonderful. I lived in Minnesota and Iowa and have family in Florida, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, North Dakota and Indiana. California is nice but expensive. The southeast (Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana areas) are backwoods scary in places and racism is rampid, in my opinion. The northeast and northern Midwest are cold in the winter with lots of snow. It sounds like you always go to California (LA) and so you probably know how expensive it is there. Also, you can up and move to wherever you want at any time that you want if your job is basically online. Good Luck and keep us informed. I love your content and following you.

[@squishypuffcreations]

You are doing so many amazing things, and keeping yourself and your family healthy. I love your life shares and meal shares. I have no idea about where I would move to in the US. I am in Canada and happy here.

[@torchlightlms]

We would be so lucky to have you and your awesome fam in the US! Do it ❤

[@YvetteODowd]

As an Australian grandmother, I would feel really uncomfortable about my children and grandchildren moving to the US. By contrast, when my daughter lived in NZ for two years, I felt she was in one of the safest places on Earth. I wish you luck and hope this goes well for your family but do understand your parents may not be thrilled.

[@sgutstadt1]

As someone that moved with the whole family to the US when kids where young, Nick is so right, its a very good opportuniyu but a HUGE loss in terms of family life for everyone but especially the kids (The grandparents...) I have never made up my mind whether it was worth it or not. I am swaying for years about this. Good luck, whatever you decide

[@Maiseymax696]

I live in Western New York. Cost of living isn't bad here. Your experience will vary drastically based on where you decide to settle in the US

[@hollypietrobono1676]

I love this type of video do another one. ❤

[@user-vn6xo2tc9r]

What would you do with the new house if you came to the States?

[@soybeans8139]

Congratulations on winning the lottery, that’s cool. I understand wanting to go beyond the glass ceiling as a person that emigrated to the USA as a teenager. I’m so excited for your family. Still, like with all situations being in the US has been both, wonderful and challenging. I’ve done very well being here, but this is not an easy place to be. Please choose where you want to live carefully, there are a lot of States where women don’t have full rights over their bodies, so take that into consideration. All in all though, despite some of the problems with the country, the US is still a place with lots of opportunity so, good luck to you and your family as enjoy your experience here.

[@dr.drishti]

I relate so hard on what you said about moving to the States. I’m from a small country who always dreamed big of moving to the States one day as a doctor. My dream is coming true now and I agree with your points.

[@rohannawildon9729]

Let’s get it girl 💪🏽

[@novaleelmw]

You'll do so great in the US! It's going to be a crazy and hard adventure but if you never leap, you'll never know! Also I would recommend to really savor this next year at 'home' and do some bucket list things, visit with friends, family, places, as coming back to visit is never the same as living there. Oh and definitely look at healthcare in the different states. You'll get free basic healthcare for at least the first year as a greencard holder but beyond that it's a budget post that is pretty important and will differ wildly in price.