We're Leaving New Zealand & Going Back to California (or so we thought)

[@AlexanderAyling]

To clarify - we are not leaving New Zealand right now due to changes at the border. We were packed and ready to go but the border status changed due to the new variant and our plans have been put on hold. It’s been hectic. Luckily my family members health has stabilized for the time being. We will probably go over for a while in a few months. Lots of feelings right now. Thank you all for your kindness and support. It’s been a crazy year, with so many ups and downs but throughout it all you’ve been here. So I want to say a heartfelt thank you. Sending you all good vibes and lots of love. See you in 2022.

[@alejandramorales6896]

I hope you find solace in whats about to come and that you dont change your optimism. That's the best part of you and your wife, the optimism in hardships, so stay strong buddy and sending love to that loved one and you guys to get through this

[@joannewinter7879]

Prayers and best wishes to your loved one Alex. 🙏😘

[@nessierey6721]

Best well wishes to your family members and you&Carrie… serious condolences 💐

[@mdnickless]

When we made the decision to move to New Zealand, we realised that at times loved ones will become ill and die. We reached the conclusion that we were only ever a flight away. Inevitably we will miss events, but with enough will we could still be there for most of the critical moments. That was pre-covid, and it's a lot harder now. But we can only do what we can do, and we should not feel ashamed about what we can't do.

[@catherinecarr3506]

What a worrying time for you both and your family. Peace to you both over this special time of year. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Breathe in all that beautiful nature we are surrounded with, it is indeed life giving x

[@giznamissao]

I liked your video! You talked about important things for our life! God bless you and your family!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Gizna!

[@barbaramassey3787]

Thank you for thinking and sharing and caring. You are helping us all. May good things come to you.

[@JohnFNagle]

God Bless you and Give you peace, not only for you but, the whole family

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you John 🙏🏼

[@terryomalley1974]

Alex, heartfelt sympathies to you and your family. I can't even begin to imagine how traumatizing and disruptive this turn of events must be in light of the fact that you've just recently finally settled into your new home in NZ. But, family comes first. Always. So, I understand and, under similar circumstances, would make the exact same decision. Godspeed, my friend! Take good care of yourself, your wife and your pup while back in the States. All the best, brother!!!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Terry

[@terryomalley1974]

@@AlexanderAyling You're very welcome, mate. Hang tough.

[@anahappy6153]

Wish you everything will get better soon! We are with you! Support!!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Ana 🙏🏼

[@renatanovotna3070]

Thank you for sharing this sad news! Sending lots of healing energy and love 🙏🏻

[@theoblivious2]

Prayers and blessings to you guys. Here's to a better 2022.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you!

[@dalewis5038]

Alex, I'd like to say that watching your videos isn't just to see your projects. I look forward to your "chats". I come away with such perspectives. As corny as it sounds you guys bring me joy...don't worry about content. I rather you be well, whole. Having traveled to see family I totally understand. Praying for you and sending positive prayers. Un fuerte abrazo.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you. I’m enjoying sharing more of my thoughts here and it’s nice to hear that you enjoy it too.

[@karenbaker3801]

Hi Alex, My heart goes out to you and Carrie and your extended family. Sending healing prayers to your loved one. It’s good you are able to go away in your caravan and both have a little time out to relax and look after yourselves. Lots of love.

[@isaline831]

I hope that your family member is going to be better. It's not easy right now to do what we want with the pandemic. I send you positive vibes and courage from France to go through this rough period.

[@juneterry8487]

It’s tough when a family member is ill and you are so far away. This Covid life is certainly putting everyone in a spin right now. Rest assured that your wider NZ community is prepared to step up when needed, so if we can do anything at all to help, just say the word. Take care and stay safe. 🌻🌹🌼🌺🌸

[@natashabramwell6697]

Sorry to hear this. Relax, keep positive. Sending healing thoughts to your family.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Tashie

[@eddiegreene7334]

Absolute best of luck. You guys share so much of your lives with honesty and venerability..that you feel like family members. Thank you both for that. Sending good thoughts and light to you….your not alone ever.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Eddie - we feel blessed to have such a big supportive family in this community.

[@annajoie700]

I wish you and your family lots of peace, guidance and light during this difficult time! 🙏🏼💛

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Anna - your light is appreciated

[@ElaineAMalec]

My hope is that everything works out for you and your family. Stay humble and positive as you are. We will be patient. Take care of yourself and your loved ones.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Elaine 🙏🏼

[@Tom_McMurtry]

I just hope everything goes as well as it possibly can from here Alex. Thanks for your warmth and soul always.

[@MsImaneS]

Prayer went up for you and your family! hope to hear good news in the next video. Take care!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you! We know the one upstairs is listening and hearing the prayers from this community. Thanks for sending one for us

[@travelabroad4276]

Hope your family member will get well. Best wishes for you and your wife for 2022!

[@RoNFphy]

Alex and Carrie. I am sorry to hear about you going through this. I know it will be tough not being with them but just know your thoughts and prayers are felt and mean so much to them. I hope you have as much of a great holiday season as you can and take of yourselves. We will see you in the new year.

[@GaiaNative]

You are a breath of fresh air in the way you talk authentically and tell like it is Alex. Thank you.Im heartened that you are a good role model for other men, who are more used to bottling things up. Im very sorry to hear about your family member and understand the difficulty of being so far away at a time you want to be elsewhere. Sending you and Carrie much love. Enjoy your holiday break as best you can in the beauty of the water and nature, which will help you both nourish your wellbeing and souls during this challenging time

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Helen 🙏🏼❤️

[@nomaddownunder2837]

Praying for your family member's fast recovery. It's summer here.Relax, unwind, enjoy and please show us NZs beautiful beaches.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@sarahmcneilis9145]

So sorry you are going through such a tough time. I pray God gives you the strength to get you through. Heartfelt warmth and kindness to you both and your family. Hopefully your family member is soon on the mend.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Sarah

[@lynnerussell1647]

Prayers and hugs to you and your families for only better things. Enjoy your well deserved hiatus. A chance to refresh.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Lynne 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@auntbeck9447]

So sorry to hear about your family member’s health issues and sorry that you can’t be with them in person. I know Winston is happy you will be sticking around. We will look for new content from you whenever you are ready. No worries!!

[@amyfinlayson]

Hi Alex, sorry to hear you are going through a lot right now. I honestly am here to help if you ever need anything at your homestead. I am a dairy farmer so use to animals and things and house sitting. Just incase you need anyone as a back up i am here for you guys. Sending you and your family a lot of prayers. Since I lost my brother a few years ago i really value the importance of time in life and how we spend it. When times are good really enjoy it and when bad times are hard sit, learn and feel it. Really hope everything works out for you guys. Take care. Amy x

[@judyrau5309]

Sorry to hear, but you never know what will happen from day to day take care

[@anothertiffany]

Holding space for you, Carrie and your family right now. Thinking of you all!

[@KristenMelissa]

Alex, I am wishing for you and your family the most positive outcome to your situation. All of the positive and healing energy. 🙏

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Kristen

[@meg7088]

I hope your loved one has improved since you posted, sending hugs 🤗 and blessings for the new year and the remainder of 2021🥂🍾

[@michelletewhata7768]

Send many blessings and love to you and your family❤️❤️❤️

[@pinky5958]

Sending love and peace to you both and family ❤️

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you!

[@Jswag1947]

This was the spiritual boost I needed right now, in my life. Thank you.

[@AlexanderAyling]

We could all use a big spiritual boost nowadays 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@geecee1288]

You and Carrie feel like family to me, so take this virtual hug from me and my son and all our love and support for the challenges ahead. Don't feel pressured to provide content in order to keep us, we'll wait for you both. Xx

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you so much - we feel the family love from this community. Thank you

[@bryanx68]

The solstice sounds really nice to do I can really use that right now. I hope your family member recovers. I know how you feel. My gf and I were planning to go to New zealand and I was telling important people to me about it and how it's such a wonderful place to be. But just last month my bestfriend and my grandpa passed away from covid.. even now I am still in shock. All those good memories hits me like a bulldozer everyday to my chest. We had a lot of dreams and passions and it is hard to carry on but we are doing our best to. Hang in there and I really hope they recover soon

[@laskinov]

Thanks Alex for Sharing your story. Much love and prayers to your whanau. God bless, and stay safe.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Sam 🙏🏼

[@maryangelasouza1919]

Manifesting positive thoughts for you and Carrie and your family 🙏

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Maryangel 🙏🏼

[@christiegraham]

My deepest sympathies on the health struggles your family’s facing right now. It can’t be easy to just sit tight and wait but it’s all you can do. Wishing you all the very best - cheers from your neighbour, Australia 🇦🇺

[@jobuckham7208]

So, so sorry for what you're going through. That's tough... really tough. Can see how much it's tearing you up inside. Good to hear you're taking a wee break away. You so deserve it. Appreciate your honesty, vulnerability & respect to your family member. So very refreshing. Wishing you both all the best for 2022.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Jo 🙏🏼

[@Peonies21]

All the best for you and your family.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@dbltime]

Family first is always top priority. Best to you, Carrie and your family. Looking forward to your return whenever that is. Rest and rejuvenate.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you David 🙏🏼 family is what truly matters

[@christineelderfield3680]

Just so sorry Alex that you can’t go just yet and hopefully your family will get through the treatment so you get to be together sometime soon🥰🥰

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Christine 🙏🏼

[@jasonmuir4201]

Hey u and Carrie have a good break and thank you for ya video's..family is the main thing but good to be safe and sound and enjoy the small break...

[@mrsmoss4127]

So sorry to hear about your family member. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. May you and Carry have a Blessed Christmas and a relaxing New Year.

[@samanthaz341]

Sending love and light to you, your family and Carrie during what sounds like such a difficult time ♥️

[@shevelgonzalez2974]

Sorry to hear about your news ….I hope 🤞 that it all works out for the best and pray for your family member, take care 🙏🏻and rest.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Shevel 🙏🏼

[@josebarronjr5838]

Sorry to hear about what you are going through man. Sending prayers and positive thoughts to you and your family.

[@caddyzig]

Sorry to hear about your family member’s health problems. Take care of yourself and stay positive. It sounds like a vacation and a change of scenery would be a smart idea so you’re safe, healthy, and prepared to move forward however you need to. Thanks for the update.

[@patsymadar9862]

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your Whanau during this time Alex and Carrie. It’s always so difficult to be away from family during times like this but know and understand we are with you in prayer standing in the gap for you. Stay safe and take care..❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Patsy 🙏🏼

[@jasminefowler7599]

I’m sorry that you and your family are going through such a hard time right now. I hope that you and Carrie are able to escape to a place of peace and calm during this time and make it back to America sometime soon. Thank you for sharing both the ups and downs of your life.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Jasmine. We are taking the holidays to relax, unplug and recalibrate

[@sherryschumacher1881]

Prayers for you and your family.

[@annmcnamara8]

Thanks for sharing Alex it's good to Talk I hope your family member is recovering very well Regards to Carrie and Lanka and your furry friends

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Ann

[@marciabsb1]

Alex and Carrie, sending prayers to all go well. I do believe everything will be fine as long as you put love in everything even on sad moments.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Marcia. Leading with love

[@sarahs1708]

So sorry to hear that your family are facing a challenging situation. I hope you enjoy the rest time that you have coming up over Christmas and New Year. Perhaps your family member will take some positivity/ good vibes from some of the things you can share from New Zealand by remaining there, like the nature and animals, the beautiful scenery, the calmer pace of life, just like the rest of your audience do. Keeping everything crossed for a positive outcome xx

[@vickicouling6338]

I wish you both, all the best for your travel. Health and some cherished time with your family ❤❤

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Vicki

[@robinmiller3209]

Knew you were going to make me cry. Much aroha to you both. Your words were powerful and it hit home. Life was put on pause for me for the last year and a half. This video has made me realise its time to get reignited with life and start being me. Time to grab that wheelbarrow, spade and my rocks and spend time in my much neglected garden. Thank you and kia kaha 💕

[@sharontaylor8521]

Thanks for sharing your sensitivity and vulnerability…it’s not an easy time for anyone…and being away from loved ones is a challenge! Hoping you can get back and spend time with them! I admire your bold move to create your own life … we have done the same by moving from Canada to Spain …and the people have been so kind and welcoming! Hugs from afar! Hang in there! 🤗

[@lifeaschronicallyingrid]

Alex, sending prayers, positive thoughts, and good vibes to you and your family. I’m so sorry that you’re going through this. Please take as much time as you and Carrie need to focus on yourselves and your families. Wishing you guys a happy holiday season.

[@babyyodarules1341]

Hey Alex. Sorry to hear that. Hope your family member continues to stay stable and gets better soon. Good luck with the border situation

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Dave 🙏🏼

[@SamSam-yb3ls]

Mate, it's been full on for you guys (it seems to a viewer), and I hope you're able to take some time for yourselves and breathe. Wishing your family member health and good energy. I hope that when the world opens up again, you're able to see your loved ones again and I'm sure you'll cherish your time with them. Here's to a better 2022 for all!

[@nevillenepia574]

Peace and Love Alex to you and Carrie. May your eventual travel plans come to fruition. Be well guys and Stay safe.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Neville 🙏🏼

[@emilymary1436]

Praying for you and your family Alex! What a heart breaking situation but you both made the right call. 🙏🏻

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Emily ❤️❤️

[@Sdc68]

Take care, my thoughts are with you and Carrie

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Shilpa

[@cyclox73]

Positive vibes to you and your fam. Keep on keepin on!

[@CD-ho4hm]

My blessings are with You!

[@dinalubin6498]

Thinking of you guys, Alex- I know how hard it must be to be so far away…but just know that your family member is feeling all the love. The love that no amount of miles or oceans can ever come between! Your online fam is right behind you all the way. Take time for you and all that keeps you grounded and serene. I’m sending love and light for a happy and healthy 2022.💗

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you for being here Dina 🙏🏼

[@effie-Toronto]

Alex and Carrie I am so sorry to hear this about your family member. Sending lots of love, good thoughts and prayers for you, Carrie and your family member.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Effie 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@terriwensley2824]

❤️ I have been through being far away when there’s a family crisis and every emotion you’re feeling is valid. You and Carrie are in my thoughts and praying your family member continues to be stable.

[@danielmanske8950]

Wishing you all the best for the New Year! Praying for your family. We are the couple who spent 18 months in New Zealand from February 2020 through August of 2021. We are adjusting to life back here in Berkeley. Best wishes!

[@afroditetsantekidis4377]

Oh Alex my heartfelt sympathies to you Carrie and your family. Life always brings us these curve balls to test us, but you are right loved ones are important in life as is time we spend with them. Sometimes in this materialistic world we forget what’s more important in life. I wish you and Carrie and of course little Lanka all the best and health to your loved one. Kindest Regards Afrodite.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Afrodite ❤️❤️

[@tanyaturuwhenua8667]

Feeling for you and your whaanau. In 2002 I had just been moved to Melbourne for a project by my company and four weeks later my beautiful papa was diagnosed with prostate cancer. It was a scary and incredibly distressful time. My company were fantastic, they sent me home for a time until we understood more about what we were facing. Fast forward to this year and the other day we celebrated his 87th birthday. A poignant time for him/ us as one of many firsts without my beautiful mum by his side who we lost in June. When we love so greatly we equally feel the pain of suffering loss or grief for those we love. It is a price I willingly pay. Wishing you and Carrie every strength and blessing for what the New Year brings 🙏🏽💕

[@christinecarr7505]

Sending you and your family healing vibes. Remember everything is perfect and where thing need to be. I lost a family member recently from a distance so I can understand how you feel being so far away. Keep your vibration high. One Love!

[@libbygarcia6354]

Wow what a turn of events. Praying for your family members and you all.

[@gabygaedecke2411]

Gentle hugs to you and to Carrie. Life is so hard for so many everywhere in this world right now, and being thankful for whatever light is in my life - well, it makes it bearable, you know? I find that the old adage of being grateful for the good times, good things, and the good people in our lives really matters.

[@Nynke_K]

wow, that's a lot. hang on in there and fingers crossed for your family member's health!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@puggawompy]

Sending you and Carrie strength and a cool head, definitely not easy to make the decisions you have today, especially one around the condition of a loved one and the distance you are from them. May the winds of fortune blow kindly on your family and that things improve for the coming days and months, take it easy and hope to see you guys on the old Youtuba-ma-tron again soon. 😊

[@avasthename]

I’m so sorry to hear about your family member, but I agree the best thing we can do is spend time with loved ones. I wish you all the best. The homestead will be there when you get back. Sending good vibes!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Ava 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@avasthename]

Awww I just got to the end of the video. :( That is such a tough situation! I’m glad you’re all figuring out what the best moves are. Best to you and your family.

[@jontyr475]

Alex and Carrie, so sorry to hear that your plans have been delayed. Sending love and best wishes. Catch up soon, Love Ian & Raewyn

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you! We will catch up soon 🙏🏼

[@susie2157]

Hey Alex I am so sorry for what you are going through. I do believe in the supportive energy of people who have your back and just know there are so many of us caring for both of you

[@zakaiacvitanovich]

Hey Alex, sorry to hear about your family member. It’s really tough when that happens. I’m a kiwi living in the UAE since 2006, and I’ve experienced the same. The sense of helplessness can be overwhelming so it’s great you have the support of family and friends there. I hope your family member continues to improve. All the best for 2022.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Zakaia - 🙏🏼❤️

[@thirstymercfan]

So sad to hear these difficult challenges you are facing. The uncertainty of the boarder opening in NZ is very challenging, I hope they have some clarity on this soon so you are able to be with your family. I agree, appreciating the people you spend time with is most important, looking after yourself and mental health is also just as important. Stay well, best wishes to you and Carrie for 2022 😍

[@sharontihore1585]

Alex and Carrie my heart goes out to you both at this time. It's not easy as you mention so far away knowing you want to be there my prayers of comfort are with you and your whanau

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Sharon 🙏🏼❤️

[@helenover3381]

All the best to you and Carrie take care.😘

[@philhinco]

Heartfelt sympathies, Alex. I was in a somewhat similar situation a few years back, though it sadly didn‘t „end“ on a (at least comparatively) positive note as yours. I was on vacation in the US, staying with friends when my father passed away (after long illness). I had contemplated returning home early after his passing, but after talking extensively with my mother, as well as the friends I was staying with, we decided that it would be best for me to finish my vacation as planned. To this day I feel that it was the right decision, as it allowed me to keep my father in my memories like he was when I went on vacation, not how he was after his passing. My friends were also invaluable during that time. I hope you and Carrie can relax a little in the upcoming weeks over the new year, and I wish your family member a swift and steady recovery!

[@AlexanderAyling]

Hey Phil, I’m sorry to hear about your father. 🙏🏼

[@fionahislop2889]

All of our love and good wishes to you and your family member who is ill. It is soooo very hard being far away and feeling powerless but your family is right in that you should stay put for now. You are ready to go at a moments notice and they know you are there for them. Kia kaha x

[@thatgirl_Devi]

I'm so sorry to hear about your relatives health and how your plans were put on hold. I hope they get better and hope you and Carrie remain healthy 💖

[@cordeliastockwell1837]

holding space for you, carrie, and your family (and the furry friends in your life too)

[@gnomeway2]

Sending you, Carrie, and your family the best. Take your time!

[@pennysforyourthoughts]

Prayers, love and light sent to you and your family as you process this situation.💫

[@andreitaalvarez1987]

I hope you can find peace and calm in these uncertain times. Thank you for always being so candid and genuine, Alex. Happy New Year to you and your family. All the best!

[@fvmiller1193]

Covid, cancer, earthquakes, life in general has taught me that control is a mirage. You are right - connections with loved ones is meaningful and ultimately most important. Even before Covid, there was no guarantee of physically being with far away loved ones when they need you. Just know they will feel your support and whatever happens next, that love and connection will remain strong. I also hope the commitment to producing content doesn’t become too much. Take more time if that’s what you need.

[@shenlun]

Our thought's and prayer are with you, my Kiwi Brother.

[@jonas.zehnder]

Sending you both and especially your family member a lot of love, strength and prayers. Glad to read in the comments that meanwhile the health situation stabilized. Lovely and inspiring vlog segment. Enjoying the holidays with my grandparents in south Italy and really enjoying the time with them and seeing them again. Love you Alex. You’re a real inspiration and great human. Apart from the stress and hectic times I wish you happy holidays as well and a happy new year.

[@tazzcopping2798]

Sending you both lots of hugs at this difficult. I understand what it is like to be away from loved ones. I am grateful that I have made some great new friends this year.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Tazz. I’m glad you’ve made meaningful friendships this year, they are so important to have

[@aleishahazlewood5991]

Sending you and Carrie lots of love. Really sorry to hear about your ill family member.

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thanks Aleisha

[@60greyhairandsparkles21]

Oh Alex, my heart goes out to you at this very difficult time. Being so far away from your loved one is so so hard, especially when they are not too well. I am from the UK and when my Mum became ill I felt such a long way away, it is hard. Taking time out and being with family sounds like the best thing right now. If you need a back up home sitter, I’m here, or help with Lenka I could mind her. Lots of love, hugs and healing thoughts to you and yours ❤️

[@AlexanderAyling]

You know all about it then. Thank you for the kind comment. 🙏🏼

[@60greyhairandsparkles21]

@@AlexanderAyling thank you for your reply, you really didn’t need to. It was hard but I did get to fly home and see her, however times where easier then travel wise of course. self care now, to the ocean sounds good ❤️

[@elahhale9057]

The ups and downs of living across countries.... The heart strings get pulled, and pulled hard in times like these. I feel for you both. We all want to be near the ones we love in sad times. My mum was a wise woman. She taught me to accept that, when you can't be there, you just can't be there, and that's all there is to it You're a wise man Alex, you speak wise words in every vlog. You know that love is the greatest power there is, and that power is energy. Energy that can be directed to be with whomever needs it. You don't need to be present to send your love. Yes being present helps US feel better, but the most important person is the one in need. Send your love, the love of compassion, the love of healing, the love of pure unconditional love. Love is all things. It can be everywhere and anywhere. Direct your love to your family member and rest assured in the knowledge that.... It Is Done. Have a great rest and time with the family you can be with. 💖🎶

[@omalleysmith9100]

Steady on, Dear Ayling family. I've followed you for years, and I am rooting for you all, and sending positive vibes across the miles from Alberta, Canada. xo

[@MrKokoboy]

Family first brother, Aotearoa will always be your other home apart from the US, I wish you and Kerry safe travels.

[@steffifr6635]

Lots of love to you & Carrie ♥️ Hopefully your family member will be better !

[@jimjames6487]

So sad and sorry to learn of your family health problem hope all goes well and all the best and God bless

[@AlexanderAyling]

Thank you Jim 🙏🏼