VLOGMAS DAY 12: Apartment Hunting in Austin (!?) Baking Gluten-Free Gingerbread, Wrapping Gifts

[@RG-yf3uj]

The last apartment seems the best in my opinion. Less stressful in so many ways: the environment, atmosphere, space, financial... The first 2 have so many more things you don't have any control over, like noise (even w/out construction), space, walking Max, parking... Wish you the best finding your next home.

[@Alessandra-ec2hr]

I like the river front apartment the best! The cozy factor is there and if you think about it, you’ll be closer to more reasonably priced grocery stores. A Trader Joe’s downtown would be more expensive than Trader Joe’s in the suburbs. Besides, you’ll also have some extra space for friends to come over and you’re so hospitable it just seemed more like you. Just my two cents!

[@lacrossegrl24]

Some thoughts I have; your word for next year is space, take the one that gives you more space in and around the appt.

[@jannielea9762]

Michel, the apartments are all nice! In viewing your life these last months , the last apartment would be such a good, mindset, relaxing, no stress choice! If lighting is an issue, could you budget in and think about buying a light for filming! You’ll always have one then and not have to make a decision based on the lighting! That last apartment is just fitting for you unless a home rental may come up before your final decision! Many prayers continue for you sweet friend!💚❤️🌲

[@MichelJanse]

These are all great thoughts :-)

[@KWilliams22]

Yes stay away from construction...I regret moving to an apartment next to construction...so noisey when you have the windows open and no peace and quiet is no bueno 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@davidhorwood6741]

Peace and quiet, a place to reflect and rejuvenate sounds perfect in this time of life...

[@Madeline64]

Omg.. the view on apartment #3 is all you need in life. I would spend hours out there. It’s gorgeous. I hope I can live in a place like that one day.

[@Agoraphobication]

One thing about that second place: If you're facing the pool, that will probably be loud on the hot days when everyone is out there sunbathing/drinking/partying with their music. (Source: Lived in Austin for years and attended many pool parties at friends' buildings.) Might be something to consider for its impact on filming. I would 100% take the third place, it's gorgeous! Or wait for a cute little house to come onto the market.

[@Glasschalk1]

I started Seeds many months ago when they sponsored your show. An accident which resulted in a bunch of antibiotics killed my gut. SEEDS ARE AMAZING!! Changed my life and belly!! Thanks Seeds and Michel!!

[@monicagonzalez20]

The 3rd apartment is STUNNING!! 😍😍The views are so beautiful & I think leaving downtown might be stressful and would be annoying having to take Max out for walks when your in the 19th floor. Also, there are some lamps that mimic sunlight so might be worth buying in case there's not a lot of sun coming in the apartment you choose.

[@MichelJanse]

I think you’re right about these thoughts!!

[@chrissiedcohen]

Oooo….good thought about having to go down so many floors for potty (& having to be dressed?).

[@molliec4719]

You will literally never regret living downtown and having walkability!! Now that I’m married with kids, that’s what I miss most about living the city life. I loved loved loved being in walking distance to everything!

[@kimgoreham1596]

Same!!

[@elbow7991]

Wow! The apartment #3 looks beautiful 😍 I love the view. I could see walks near the water with Max ❤️

[@MichelJanse]

I think he would THRIVE!😊

[@evahynonen4851]

I agree but having lived now with my current dog in a apartment I would say why not rent a small house? I am hoping to do so myself.

[@stacyadams728]

You should ask how tall the building under construction will be next to the downtown apartment. As the building rises, the noise could increase, even from the penthouse floor.

[@MichelJanse]

Ooh that’s a good call. Thank you!

[@magdalenaandersson96]

Wow, the view from apartment #3 is amazing!! Good luck hunting, so exiting planning for the future🥰🫶🏻

[@MichelJanse]

Thank you friend 🥰🥰

[@jennzut4133]

I lived in the city for a few years on the East coast and I will say it was fun to be able to walk to restaurants, stores, and events but it was also stressful (parking, crime, noise). For me personally I was much happier living about 15 minutes from downtown but having some outdoor space and trees! But one of my best friends has a dog and loooves living in high rise apts in the city so it just depends on what you are comfortable with :)

[@lexiepet1232]

I feel like the option out of town is better because you have a hard time saying no to friends and being downtown would make it easier to say yes. Plus the water view is amazing!!

[@Stormiej8]

I agree, especially as you may get overwhelmed and the one out of town will allow for easier down and relaxing time to regroup.

[@MichelJanse]

That’s true! A better life balance outside of town maybe. :-)

[@AndreaS-gm5ov]

I think trying city life while young and alone a lot could be fun!

[@allyssumrose]

Michel I love love love the last apartment you showed!! The view is breathtaking!! The space you have inside you can fit in all of your furniture! Plus if you went with the smaller apartment though may be cheaper you'd have to put your furniture in storage and there you go spending $$ for storage, so then is it really cheaper and a good deal? Give sweet Max lots of love and kisses for me. Love you Max 🐾💕. Prayers and Wishes Lisa Hampton 😃

[@MichelJanse]

You’re so right🤍🤍

[@victoriabanks-lai1127]

That 3rd apartment would definitely be more comfortable. But if I were you, I'd go with #2 for a year. Downtown loft living? Yaaaas! Just got my notice today that my second delivery of Seed will be coming soon. Thanks for the gut health tips - it's a really good product.

[@exwhy5867]

I'm on maternity leave and your vlogmas has been the most relaxing part of my day. I watch while he naps. 💜

[@lizzygrace6322]

Congratulations!🎈

[@MichelJanse]

😭🤍😭🤍😭

[@exwhy5867]

@@lizzygrace6322 thank you!

[@RedNicole22]

I like the second one, peaceful and views are amazing! Friends close is also a positive. I personally don’t like traffic noise, so I wouldn’t like the first one. To each their own. Have fun deciding.

[@wynothafortune5713]

I love the 2 bedroom with the space and beautiful lake view

[@lvlysticgirl]

The last one's view and patio was STUNNING! Also loved the space! Would be easy when you have guests, etc.

[@megstarbright]

Apartment #3 is stunning!

[@c_atg]

It’s awesome that you’ll get to be in the same city as your sister!!! My sister lives halfway across the world and I miss her very much 😊 Enjoy your time together!

[@Shop-Girl]

I was in the same boat you were a few months ago, I went with the larger, and out of down town. I have zero regrets. I think with having Max, it is would be easier, to go for walks and such. Living down town is exciting, but not so much for fur babies. ❤❤❤❤ can’t wait to see what you choose. Have a mentioned Vlogmas is the best!!!

[@junehulton9776]

Oh what a fabulous vlogmas.... Fun love and laughter with max ....the future...is your choice in where you stay and lay our head...but it has to work for you in all ways ... And I am sure you will choose the best.... See you soon...hop you enjoy the gingerbread....with your friends. X 😊

[@Nesianni]

leaning to the less stress peace and quiet! I think it’s a sweet spot to be close enough for a short drive. But it’s hard for me to compromise on peace, it’s so valuable!

[@MichelJanse]

That’s a great point. Love that!

[@rootoo3624]

1000% the last one! Downtown is fun, but the traffic here in downtown Austin SUCKS. I think having a more leisurely life and be closer to friends sounds like a much more enjoyable day to day. Not to mention that view!

[@learninglivingandlilacs3652]

Oh wow the 3rd option is gorgeous, I’d be so happy to live there!

[@susanw4901]

Are there any AirBnb listing for the two buildings you looked at in this video? That may be a cool way to try those spaces out short term & could help you get a better feel for what would work best?

[@mariaandreinaguzmanapolina869]

The two-bedroom place is spectacular! seems more you with the view and probably much better for Max as well, so important to think of their needs as well. Love it!

[@natallietravers3371]

downtown would be such a good adventure and I think if you approached the new change in a good mindset it could allow for positive growth !

[@melissacannon2409]

I feel like the 3rd apartment would best suit you and Max.

[@CT8852]

I would lean towards apartment #3…peaceful, lower stress, more space (important if you work from home, you can carve out unique work space), and still hits the right price point. You can always take a short drive to the more exciting neighborhood! 🌺 Karen

[@liliesofthefield5310]

The 3rd apartment for sure 👌👌, it beats the other two by a mile and you'd have room for people to stay over, thar view is beautiful!

[@judykhaleck8034]

I would say the 3rd apt tour is bigger than the other 2. Love the water view and the bedroom is larger than the 1st 2

[@angierichards2004]

Thanks for reminding me to take my Seed! I would have forgotten to have taken it totally!!!!!

[@suechristy363]

I vote... "less stressful, peaceful, calm, quiet" would be my vote ✋🏼 if you were asking our opinion.

[@gerin.6418]

Me too!!! 🧘🏼‍♀️🙏🥰

[@RashaSardest]

It’s so strange and wonderful that I have the exact same dilemma! A quiet space out of town or a fun apartment right in the middle of downtown. I feel like I could help a lot more people and have more people over in the middle of town but I’m not sure what I want or is best for me right now ❤ it’s fun to be able to follow you through the same journey

[@carriecutshall-madison843]

Honestly with the fact that you try to have friends stay or your parents, plus all the stuff you have in storage. I would recommend the last one.... 2 bedroom, because if you went that route you have plenty of space to host things and let folks stay including Jordy n his fam. I appreciate your current sense for adventure but honestly you may want to consider which adventures you need to try vs not. You love decorating and your gallery wall is growing not including other things. Just really voting for the last option lol. I am sure you will decide what's best. Good luck

[@sabinamura7244]

You absolutely should pick #3 Apartment .. great view space and peaceful.. Cute Gingerbread Man 😂❤

[@MichelJanse]

😂😂

[@whitneyreynolds7457]

I loved the last apartment the most but I’m more of a quiet, country living sort of person. I could totally see you doing the downtown thing for awhile but my biggest concern would be Max. What would the walking & potty time look like for him living on the 19th floor downtown?? BTW you have the most gorgeous natural lips & lip color that I think I’ve ever seen on anyone!!

[@ginnylewis2391]

the less stressful peaceful calm quiet and more space :) apt is amazing

[@meganvenegas7632]

Hi Michel. I'm loving vlogmas and the daily videos. Thank you for sharing your life and take care! P.S. I agree with most on the last apartment (the view, friends, etc.) I can't wait to see what you decide.

[@okjessicah]

Apartment #3, for sure! I think the 2nd one is a little too small for working at home and number 1 with construction is a def no.

[@janetduffy4729]

Will you mind taking your dog up and down in the elevator several times a day ? It was so nice just opening the door to let him outside in your previous apartment.

[@MichelJanse]

That’s so true! He didn’t potty in my “yard” often but it was nice to be on the ground floor and not take stairs to go outside

[@jenniferwheat3657]

Just so you know, the Target versions of Zyrtec and Claritin work just as well for a fraction of the price. My dogs have been on them for years.

[@dhall75608]

You may have touched on this and I missed it, but what about a home rental? I know some will rent for as much as an apt. But was just curious.

[@zoeanselmo]

If you do move into the apartment. If you put a mirror on a wall across from a window, it can brighten up the room a lot.

[@MichelJanse]

🌞🌞🌞

[@unapologeticallyromel7096]

I can watch your channel all day and never get bored

[@Wsl8991]

That 3rd apartment is what’s up !!!!! Love it. I think you’d be happier there

[@myhauntingromance]

I love the apartment hunting content (I don't move for like 7 months but I am so excited to move into a new space). I have been decluttering like crazy and I just wanna simplify my space so much

[@Shylaoutdoors]

Love love love how cute the set up was for the gingerbread cookies ❤

[@Daria_Ziuba]

Hello! Don’t you afraid to show on the internet the place where you live/may live? It’s easy to find when you know the view from your windows. It can be unsafe.

[@amypennebacker4941]

I LOVE the lake view in the 2BD apartment!

[@haileythomas1718]

I selfishly want you to pick city apartment cause I love your out on the town videos

[@kmbrlythomas]

Hi Michel, I used your code last month for Seed and I love it! I have always had gut or digestion issues. I know you’re supposed to take two a day, but do you know if one a day works well too? I just want to prolong my supply until my next one.

[@karmakauffman7445]

I’d vote for the apartment by the water, but then I’d be interested in quiet versus exciting. One other thought about the apartment on the 19th floor: would that be too long of a trip to take Max out on walks? Especially if he’s not feeling well? This may not be a concern if you’ve got Max trained to use a box or a pad, but thought I’d mention it. One other thought, because I’m a enneagram 6 and this is where my mind goes, what if there’s a fire? Nineteen floors is a long way to go if you’re trying to rush out of a burning building. Like I said, I’m a 6 - I can’t help it! 😂

[@MichelJanse]

Hahaha never a bad idea to know where the fire exits are! What a strength 😉

[@OhMyEls]

Each place is beauuutiful!! I’m giddy for you! 👏😊

[@SkySpiral8]

Wow that third apartment is so peaceful and dreamy, but I’m a little more settled and introverted than you, so perhaps biased against downtown life.

[@TonyaS]

I would go for the peaceful apartment. I think the noise of downtown living would be too overstimulating...at least for me. :)

[@Nicolelynnn]

i love the idea of downtown living while you are in your not married/without kids era!

[@Nicolelynnn]

wait nvm i love the last apartment so much hahahah

[@MichelJanse]

😂😂😂

[@20somethingsaver]

You sound so excited about the downtown option. Why not give it a try for a year?

[@susanlew1730]

The last apartment is stunning

[@HandmadeDawling]

Peaceful, calm quiet, sounds good. But I would choose the downtown one for me. That choice has always been my ‘want’.

[@michellewallis4424]

Hey Michel I love watching your videos, thank you for sharing your life 😊

[@MichelJanse]

Thank you for being here 🥹

[@michellewallis4424]

@@MichelJanse 🥰

[@gracie.virginia]

As someone who lives in NYC, higher doesn’t necessarily mean quieter. I lived in 2 apartments in the same high rise on the 7th and 26th floor and the 7th floor was quieter because of the side of the building it was on/ what street it faced.

[@selah_vie]

My only concern with 19th floor is the parking sitch. But you’ll love being up high and having to reduce the amount of things you have honestly feels really good!! Otherwise you’ll just accumulate more stuff. Which means more stuff to move!

[@MichelJanse]

Parking does seem stressful but the views seem amazing!!

[@selah_vie]

Yes lots to pray and think about! That other view was absolutely amazing as well! That would be a hard choice!

[@tiffanyfriga-clinton-brock8557]

Where oh Where did you get that cute wrapping paper?? I love it.

[@jackiehaas]

I can only give my opinion on what apartment I would choose, and it would definitely be the smaller downtown apartment. I always wanted to live in the city, and now I have my “forever” home so I will probably never get the chance. But, you have to weigh YOUR pro’s and con’s on it, none of us have to live there for a year. I visited Austin a few times, my BFF lives in the Lake Travis (???) area. I wish you peace and happiness wherever you land.

[@sarahvacca9363]

I could see why you like both apartments. I would look into how much place increases so that you don't have to move out just when you moved it. Is the downtown apartment new? It seems odd that is the cheapest one. Maybe they would raise their rates as more get interested. Beautiful cookies and wrapping job!!

[@gwynethglas-brown9171]

Those apartments looked amazing 3 rd one the view was just Beautiful ❤ Can see you & Max living there . Great video. Your gingerbread. Cookies looked so yummy 😋 Have a Good sunday 🥰

[@ashleybergstrom8934]

One is never to use the water heater for storage. Dangerous situation.

[@robynr]

I like my cookies chewy or cakey. If i get any hard cookies ill leave them out a couple days to get stale then it makes them a little soft. 😁

[@Lily27636]

I've heard you talk about Synbiotic in your videos before and I'm curious now. A couple years ago I started having gastric reflux and stomach issues after taking Naproxen. I've been taking a medication to help and it's gotten better but I'm wondering if that too would help my-not quite back to normal-stomach?

[@ChicReal]

Hi Michel, I feel your excited optimism for your next abode. Pray about it and ask the Lord to guide your decision. You can always use portable lighting for better lighting as an option too. I'll be praying you find the best home for you and Maxie boy. What did the Vet say Maxie boy had, was it a yeast mold bacterial issue? So glad he's feeling better! Much love to you both. ❣️🙏🏻❣️

[@Justme233145]

Love your videos! The 3rd apt was beautiful!

[@Macee1004]

Definitely the peaceful, larger apartment was beautiful!

[@justinfelt748]

Hi, Michel and Happy Saturday on Day 12 of Vlogmas!😊😊😊😊😊💙💙💙💙💙🌷💖💖💖💖💖🎄🎅❄🎉👍. The splits that you just did in the kitchen was...incredible!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐👍. And where did you learn that? Let me know.😀💙🌷💖👍

[@danibostonburbs]

Heyy🎄🤗Michel, Just stretching out ur Vlogmas' videos cuz I know it'll be ending tomorrow12/21😢 Happy Holidays so fun to live vicariously w U! Hope when ya come back in January, they'll be more cooking demos. I'd luv to see more makeup too! What website are those sweaters from in rental clothes Vlogmas?? I especially luved the Ivory Brown Swirly one! LUV Dani from Boston

[@meganbarto4138]

The #3 apartment is so cozy and I got a good feeling from your footage. The views are spectacular! Also Merry Christmas to you and your family! 🎄

[@MichelJanse]

Merry Christmas to you!!!!

[@andreas_adventures]

I absolutely prefer soft gingerbread

[@ferncurtis2437]

I wish I could get Seed in the UK without the postage charge…I’m about to start the AIP Diet for health reasons and would love to get Seed but, it’s just not affordable for me 😢 xx

[@hopesprings4034]

Of all the places you’ve traveled this year, (if your friends and family lived there), where would you choose to live next? Just an imaginary question…

[@helenepatterson5118]

So excited for another Vlogmas video, now to watch! Yay 😁 that last one was beautiful and you can buy lighting so you always have it! But whatever you decide as long as you’re happy then that’s what counts. Love max and you playing together, watching you truly makes me happy! Love you ❤️❤️

[@llnut4775]

Both beautiful Michel but me, I would totally go for the one that is easier to take Max out several times a day. 🤣

[@MsJosefinAndersson]

I think living in small apartment downtown is not the best option for you and the dog. And also you work from home - you need space! Hoping you find a good place.

[@VondaSims]

Could Max be chewing on some of your Christmas decor possibly? Is just an idea toward any recent allergy changes.

[@vickyb9918]

Please make sure to only give max Zyrtec not Zyrtec D. The D is deadly for pets.

[@andreaslife8340]

I am absolutely loving my seed! Merry Christmas Michel!

[@MichelJanse]

Yay I’m so glad!!

[@meghanacostahamilton]

The gift wrapping is beautiful! Did you make the name tag/plates or purchase?

[@alyssa.ra20]

Michel you should give us a gift wrapping tutorial 😅 I tried getting fancy with some of my gifts and I failed miserably 😅

[@MichelJanse]

Hahaha i love it and definitely know the feeling!🎄🤍

[@nadinewilliamson1037]

I love the 3rd but if I was in your season I'd life I would do the 2nd one. Smaller but funner.

[@alyssadancer107]

FYI you can order a *years supply* of Zyrtec from Costco for $15 🎉 (under generic name Cetirizine)

[@MichelJanse]

OOOH THIS IS AWESOME

[@slink235]

My dogs on human allergy medication. Best place to get them is amazon! Alot cheaper than most stores.

[@Jacky22_]

Tip from my dad to me: Your not suppose to put stuff next to the water heater 😅 don’t add extra storage it’s dangerous.

[@annykay5228]

The concrete flooring in the rental you're filming in has been echoey, so renting the first apartment with concrete floor might be an issue with noise. Also living on concrete floors with eds might flare things up. I have eds and my big flare of subluxing joints started at 29, which seems to be a common experience. The thought of concrete floors sounds so painful.

[@MichelJanse]

That’s a great point!

[@tonyahooker5839]

Please think about safety too!

[@tonyahooker5839]

I think the view is worth the second one and peaceful and less stressful

[@orangemarissa50]

"Pick number 3, my lord" -Shrek

[@brittanyparks9460]

The option on the water reminds me of your parents house for some reason