What moving abroad has done to our relationship (a chat with my wife).

[@josephmillraney1061]

Belive it or not, my sweetheart and I would have been married 44 years on the 16th of this month. I miss her so much. Memory eternal!

[@EliCrousey]

💕🙏

[@suryakumari2487]

Happy wishes to lovely couple 💐🤝

[@suryakumari2487]

Desire for some simple comforts is super reasonable Your expression to have comforts at age 50 is very genuine 🤝

[@suryakumari2487]

What a beautiful conversation I have no words 😀😀I envy you couple

[@sherrimartin1057]

Praying for comfort and peace for you

[@inhale.exhale.2527]

in an age of high narcissism, your capacity for reason and introspection with such public vulnerability is extremely refreshing. my compliments to you both. 🙏 ps. the absence of these capacities are 'tells' for narcissism btw. 🙏

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much!

[@inhale.exhale.2527]

@@BeneaththeSurfaceYT 🙏

[@bybrianlee]

I'm not one to usually comment, but I can't help but say thank you for showing a lot of us what it looks like to build a healthy relationship/marriage - I felt like I've learned so much within just 29 minutes. Excited to see what lies ahead for you both!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you right back!! 🙏

[@thesoulfultrampjami3892]

We’re living in France now too. Headed back to the states in 2 weeks. We both just turned 60. We sold our home In California to be able to travel Europe. We are approaching the 4 month mark. It has been an amazing life adventure and we’ve learned so much about ourselves. The bummer for us is that our grown children and grandchildren live in the US. And truly that’s what prevents us from making France our home. When we get back we will continue our unconventional life and live and travel in an RV. We both laughed when your wife said body aches!!!! Yes omg! All the time. Terrible beds pretty much guaranteed. Schlepping our bags on and off trains. And yes small not so great kitchens. We finally broke down and bought a small cutting board and sharp knife. I really enjoyed this video. It’s hard to find videos with (more mature) people living this lifestyle. I love the bohemian life. I am like your wife as in I need to make home wherever I am, whether it’s an Airbnb, hotel or an rv. It’s in my blood, I’m both gypsy and creative homebody….go figure. I applaud your transparency and look forward to more videos of this type. Jami

[@REASONFORTRUTH]

I respect you Soulful…you understand the true riches in life. We have said the same in that family come before our pleasure. The good news is that you can still travel annually and take it one day at a time. Perhaps travel 2-3 months to France annually. Blessings and a wonderful season to you and your family…

[@thesoulfultrampjami3892]

@@REASONFORTRUTH yes thus is our thought possibly moving forward. Blessings to you both as well

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you 🙏😊

[@REASONFORTRUTH]

How refreshing to see a couple that understands marriage. Giving 100 and 100 is the secret sauce. You guys understand that you compliment each other and appreciate and mean in on each other’s gifts and abilities. Those same things can annoy you, but you appreciate them…and one another. I enjoy you both. Blessings to you both, your marriage, and the wonderful example you are leaving and loving for your boys…who do what they see more than what you say:)

[@alexam1848]

They understand the american marriage, maybe.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you! 😊🙏❤️

[@GreenWitch1]

@@alexam1848 What does that mean? Are marriages different elsewhere?

[@maggie8586]

Y'all are so cute. Relationship goals. Dialogue, respect, self-awareness, listening, introspection, collaboration, appreciation, and LOVE. And personally, I so resonate with recognizing the importance of surroundings, architecture, ambience, fodd. "I don't like clutter or ugly things." I feel ya sister.

[@charleane00]

Agreed. I heard someone say recently that marriage is about peace - and that’s what this couple have 😊

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thanks!! 😁

[@janicegreen534]

It's a good day when Nathaniel Drew's dad posts. 🙏 Your content is so good!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you, Janice!

[@shosmyth1454]

The Beautiful Cohesiveness of your Family nurtured the development in your Sons as well! Thank you both for this video.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you 🙏

[@brynanderson375]

would love to hear more about your pasts- how you met, careers, etc.!

[@loricronwell89]

I'm glad you have discovered the joys of the French countryside. I am also from Portland, Oregon and purchased a second home in the NW part of Loires Atlantique and moved in a month ago. Yes, many frustrations with moving to a new country, but I love it here! I too have found the French to be patient and kind to an older American struggling with the language. This type A city girl is learning to enjoy the relaxed lifestyle, the long lunches and the quiet Sundays when everything is closed except for mother nature. I'm finding it easier to meet people here than in Portland. If you need any advice on house hunting or this area of France, feel free to contact me.

[@Olivier-GM]

Welcome to your new home in Loire-Atlantique. A great place to live ! Are you near the ocean ?

[@WanderingAimfully]

Related to this video SO much! My husband and I (from California) have been traveling this year full-time through Europe to see if we wanted to move abroad, staying in destinations roughly 2.5 weeks at a time. What you said about the ever-changing beds, the Airbnb surprises, the humbling interactions, and the equal balance of challenges and life-affirming moments so perfectly encapsulates what we’ve been experiencing! 

 I completely echo what you shared about keeping your relationship strong with an intention of giving, prioritizing inner work, etc. Loved listening to this part of the convo! 
Funny enough, we ultimately decided to settle in the Silver Coast of Portugal (Lourinhã) and just moved into our rental home for the next year. We feel so in love with our tiny area, but so thrilled for you that you feel the same way about where you are in France now. Kudos to you for pressing forward until you found the magic that was calling to you. 

 Thanks for so thoughtfully sharing your experiences in these videos. It really is so comforting to hear from a couple who is embarking on a similar, yet unique adventure to ours! Caroline, Wandering Aimfully Side note: We used the same approach in France of leading with their language and really making an effort, and we too found the French people to be so lovely, accommodating and patient with us!

[@deliawallace4426]

The "dossier" of paperwork that is needed for almost everything in France is mind blowing. However I do miss the boulangeries, the wine. The food is fabulous. I miss the beautiful little villages. Good luck with this journey.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thanks! It’s all really worth it to move here. 😁❤️

[@eileencronk7520]

You two are very engaging! Please share more about yourselves, pre travel/complete uprooting adventures!

[@eilinodea209]

So true when you say that the French people respect the effort made by non native french speakers to learn and speak their language just as they do when they travel. I moved to Paris from Irlande when I was 27 with a little 3 year old daughter so i remember the "bureaucracy" associated with setting up bank accounts, registering my daughter for school etc...but I also remember the joy of integration and acceptance as well as the numerous times I was complimented for my grasp of French as time went on and yes, it is a beautiful language and they are a beautiful people who embrace those who embrace their great culture.

[@christinarozday1976]

I just sent this video to my daughter (and mother of my 14 year old grandson) and her French farmer boyfriend. It is so rich in wisdom and experience that speaks to their place in life as a new couple, choosing France, her plans to move in 12 months. ❤

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Awesome! ❤️😁

[@amyspeers8012]

I am so happy you are enjoying France. My husband and I moved to France in July 2017. We first lived in Rennes and moved to SW France in February 2020. We celebrated our 30th anniversary this past June. And….we love our life in France! Let me know if you’d like to see my part of France. It’s lovely!

[@agl5132]

May I ask what part of SW France are you? I am planning on exploring that area after the holidays. I am traveling with my wee Chihuahua. We've been in Scotland for the past four yrs and are ready to move on.

[@amyspeers8012]

@@agl5132 I live about an hour from Bordeaux.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you. Just might! 😁

[@maureencoyle666]

Its so funny that you said “its not 50/50, its 100/100”! Many years ago two friends of mine got married. The priest told them, “If you really want your marriage to work you have to forget the 50/50 thing people talk about. You need to get up every morning both being willing to give 100%, and that will get you through the tough times when your partner only has 30% to give. Its the ONLY advice I ever heard off the altar in my 69 years…I’ll never forget it! You two are lovely and I look forward to following your adventure! Enjoy!!

[@sandralynnsparks3468]

I am glad you are finding your place. I lost mine a few years ago, and would love to find my new home now. But I am elderly and may not be in that position again. I am feeling all that disconnection and disappointment, even though I am working hard to keep a balance in joys, purpose and peace every day. You are not just lucky, you are attentive and aware in a way I wish I had been years ago. Enjoy your life in France.

[@dionline88]

I love the dynamic between you two - very loving and respectful. The fact that you went through this experience together will bring you even closer together. I follow your son, Nathan, here on YT and you can tell he was raised well. He seems like a genuinely nice person - the world needs more of nice, respectful people! Bravo to each & every one of you!!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thanks, Diane! ❤️

[@islandbreeze2102]

Your journey is a sort of a footprint for my husband and I. We are embarking on the same quest: selling our house in the US and moving to France. We are watching your joys, trials and erros closely so we can understand the process. You’re like a guide/teacher to us. We have heard about the horrendous bureaucracy to get through in order to obtain residency in France. We ask you to please show us step by step the process as much as you can, so we can understand it. We thank you for such good videos and content. Congratulations on your anniversary. You have created a beautiful family with loving and caring boys.

[@walideg5304]

It’s not that complicated for the visa and the residency card. French people loves to complain you will see. They don’t know how lucky they are. It’s when they travel that they understand the reality.

[@carolyn2249]

I'm leaving for France from California to spend 3 months learning French, and watching this made me even more excited to go! This trip will be a trial run to see if I might want to live there permanently. Can't wait! By the way, I love the "nerding out" on your anniversary date...I was born on 11/22/66!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Nice!! Haha. 😁

[@valq10]

I hear your son Nathaniel so much in your voice, Josh. You have something golden in your family. Please keep these nourishing conversations flowing into my ears!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you! Have you been keeping up over the past year? My wife now has a channel as well. 😁

[@ivyarul5012]

Enjoy watching your journey as an older couple. So much understanding, respect n love for each other which makes everything extra, extra special.

[@milancollin1819]

Lovely video again and beautiful to see your honesty in your emotional rollercoaster. You are a true inspiration on many levels for many people. We bought a house in the South of France, above Montpelier some 14years ago and I recognise all the beauty you are talking about. We as documentary filmmakers think in colours, landscape lines, retro feel, passion for craft etc. We do not in our house in France but choose to live in Portugal. For us it is the sun and the warmth we can't find in France even not in our house in the South. I am wondering how Europe feels for you as Americans as there is a huge difference. Less competitive, less bigger biggest. But as you lived in Portland it is much closer to Europe then other parts of the US. I also love to see the love between the two of you. We had of 25years together and feel so inspired and blessed everyday to be together and do the life adventure together with my wife and sons. Looking forward to your next steps and maybe I can give you some tips where to go to if you like.

[@lindam4259]

I think they meant Portland, Oregon, not Portland, Maine.

[@hadi_177re]

No wonder that Nathaniel is a very wise and smart person regarding his young age . Cuz he's the son of a healthy relationship that rarely exists. You guys are friends before being life partners and that's what most partners forget about as their relationship contniues to exist. I'm 26 and I decided that for now I'm gonna focus on my career and I'm not gonna get into any romance relationship for now cuz I think that is hard to find someone who respects your personal life and your boundaries as a friend before being a life pertner. I know relationships need sacrifices but sacrifice and respect other's space and boundaries is also some kind of a sacrifice. But now seeing you two makes me feel that it could happen and it's not impossible to find and be with some one who's a friend, a partner and a family.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Wishing you all the best. 😊❤️

[@foreverlearningfrench]

Happy 33rd Anniversary! I could have listened to you two for hours.

[@ancapascu3732]

So happy to hear from you guys again! We are a another couple with a similar story, 54-55y old - 33y of marriage who left NY after 25y living there and moved to FL. Keep us posted! You are an inspiration to us! Best wishes, Anca & Tim

[@InsideouttrainingWB]

I said on another of your videos that in October I spent 10 days in France, my first trip. With 100% certainty, I promise you, I felt at home. In my bones, I know I could live in France! I’m so happy for you all. I have watched your sons videos and I adore that kid!

[@olindamagalhaes3991]

Hello, my friends. I'm so happy for you. I'm portuguese, I love my country of course, but I could feel how unconfortable you were in here. I think France is definitetly the place for you. It's big, full of history and beauty, delicious food and, in the country, there's still a respect for the joy of traditional living ( in Portugal, sometimes we are too modern for my taste). I love France (I used to be a French teacher) and so many portuguese live there too. Good luck for you!

[@Stopit77]

Where are you in France?

[@olindamagalhaes3991]

@@Stopit77 Just as a tourist.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much!!

[@gingerscalone5358]

We also left the US six months ago, have two boys and have been married 31 years. We left Seattle! (a lot in common). I am a nester as well, struggling with not having my own space! The beds! OMG the beds! And our relationship! Totally changing with being together 24/7.we have realized how much we need time apart! Boundaries!

[@AndreaAvila78]

Where did you move to? Why did you leave the US? You need to have a KZbin channel too!

[@gingerscalone5358]

@@AndreaAvila78 we are currently in Mexico and have had the very same experience you had (Tulum yuck!). After visiting family in the US we head to France! I would love to connect if you desire.

[@K_B_H_]

I know that you probably have a lot going on outside of making a video here and there, however... I would love to see more of this experience as it's sort of happening, or more frequently. I've come to this channel so often since your last video because I've honestly been waiting with excitement to hear of your adventures. Please consider sharing more of it. Like what you've learned navigating stores, transportation, bureaucracy, culture, and other information about just daily living that might differ to non french. I'd love to see you explore food via meals, recipes, stores etc, as well as culture. Please learn to also drive a stick, I love it. Best thing ever, you'll hate an automatic after. I'm basically living vicariously, cause if I could make it work financially, I'd be there too. Already working hard on my French to prepare for the day I might be able to do it. Plus you have the unique perspective of being at your age (also my age), and not the ages of those usually vlogging their adventures (Gen Z-Millenials), in addition you have those familial ties with children you need to maintain etc.

[@susanelizabeth1724]

Always thought France when I saw you two. Congrats on 33 - my husband and I have 34 and he getting ready to retire from education after 35 years! We are getting ready to travel more as well.

[@MishaElRusito]

Salute to you two for trying new things and finding the courage to change your lives so drastically at your age. Just proves that age is just a number. I am proud of you!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thanks man! 🙏❤️

[@QueenBee-xd1xk]

@@BeneaththeSurfaceYT It's funny to get "at your age" comments. I'm the same age as you and I don't feel like I'm old enough to get those type of comments yet lol

[@oVitorLeite]

You both are gold. This channel is gold. Thank you for allowing us to be in this conversation.

[@HaloReachMaster11]

I have viewed your son’s videos for years, and have enjoyed watching him take chances, learn, and grow. My family recently sold our home, that I loved so much, and moved, on request of my husband. It has been so difficult, but you two sold your home and took a leap at the same time, I have followed your journey and want to let you know how much you talking about your experiences have helped me SO much accept the beauty in other places, you make trade offs. Ultimately, everything will be okay, and maybe better.

[@scottw.7626]

Totally relate to your comment, "we actually like our children." Me too (with a couple of thirty-year-olds.) If they lived in France, I would be right there with them. Thanks for sharing the dream and I enjoyed your spontaneity and normal, unscripted conversation. Bon Courage!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Merci ! 😁

[@InsideouttrainingWB]

I love that you used the word anxious several times. Chemically in our bodies, elation and anxious, the same thing happens. It is simply our perception of the experience that deems it pleasurable or not pleasurable. I love that you choose to view it as pleasurable, most of the time lol. Love your videos!

[@mallory_t6513]

It’s so great to hear your take and commentary on life/ relocations / relationships. There’s a depth of knowledge and wisdom and honesty there that isn’t super common on KZbin!

[@inhale.exhale.2527]

after 4 years in sweden the passive aggro here makes me envious of how quickly you have found your new 'home'. having ancestral french blood i am inspired. vive le France 🇨🇵

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

🙏😁

[@fionalewis3121]

You guys are so emotionally intelligent and humble and equal. AMAZING

[@mynamename5172]

You are not alone! I am exactly the same in AirBnBs when I stay long term! I reorganize, (respectfully) redecorate problematic furniture placement like coffee tables of knee and ankle death, and clean as if it were my home. If something is bad (like crappy pillows or not enough hangers, both are so common!) I get new ones and gift them on departure. Life is just too short not to be comfortable at home, especially when you are a homebody. So far hosts have been absolutely fantastic about it.

[@LisaMoo54]

Your experience in both Portugal and Franch are very similar to mine. My daughter and I spent a week in Portugal and a week in France last April. Everyone extolls the virtues of Portugal and the Portuguese people but I didn't feel it. I tried to speak what little Portuguese I knew but still found the people to be stand-offish and even down right rude and unhelpful. Once we landed in France, it was a whole different vibe. No graffiti, helpful smiley people, beautiful countryside, well-maintained infrastructure, and, amazingly, less expensive homes. I immediately felt at home. Perhaps our paths will cross if you move there. I plan to spend a month in southwestern France in June to see what daily life will be like, and if all goes well, then I'll begin the process of moving.

[@anniebee6568]

I’ve been following your adventure since the beginning of this channel and you guys are such genuine and transparent people. It’s refreshing to finally see people sharing real life in this era of so much ‘pretending to be perfect all the time’ world. You are an inspiring couple. I’m french Canadian and yes french is not an easy language to learn (but your latin roots will help for sure !). (French) Continuez votre travail remarquable à partager avec nous vos aventures de voyage inspirantes avec autant d’authenticité. C’est toujours un plaisir de regarder vos vidéos. 😊

[@carolined4546]

Je suis completement d'accord avec ton message! 👏

[@walideg5304]

French for people who speaks Spanish and English will be easy. In 6 months they will be fluent if they make enough effort and I am sure it will be ok.

[@loub1733]

Having just celebrated my 37th wedding anniversary totally relate to your story. Whilst I know you are on camera I love the vibe that you show. I am a psychologist and so is my husband and this has so enriched our understanding of ourselves and each other. Marriage takes lots of things but generosity is a key and the giving of 100% and not counting is an important key which I think has been lost or at least misplaced in the modern narrative of relationships. It is a privilege to grow old with someone you love and it is a pleasure to see you live and share this adventure together.

[@gigivoicu9998]

I love the dynamics of your relationship and the wisdom you share, by just being yourselves. By letting go of the comfort and ease of what you were accustomed to in the U.S. you actually gave yourselves a chance to discover a new side of this world (in this case France) and feel a hack more alive now than you probably did 1 year ago. Plus, being closer to your immediate family is also a huge reward for jumping into the unknown and daring to start from scratch in a new place. Bravo!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you! 🙏❤️

[@anamaria2053]

Josh, Estupendo! I so look forward hearing about you and Cecilia and your progress. Lo comprendo además. My mother is originally from Spain and left as a child following the Civil War and immigrated to the US as an adult. I’ve lived and traveled in Spain and France and love both countries. I’m now preparing to get my Spanish citizenship. I so look forward to returning. I have lived in the PNW for 25 years and is the most at home I have felt anywhere in the US. But as each of you have mentioned, I don’t fully feel at home here nor have I ever fully identified with American culture. I felt so much at home in Spain and I felt so good in France too, although I’ve spent less time there. I look forward to seeing more about your adventures, both external and internal. ❤

[@mamabearv81]

You two are adorable. And congrats on your anniversary and launching your course!

[@sarakelleher3590]

Well hello. Really loving your channel. I started watching your son long ago. It brings insight as to getting out of your comfort zone. My husband is 60 me 55. Fear drives him alot, not taking chances. I give you credit for selling your home and being brave enough to take this journey 🥰✈🇫🇷

[@gayemcduff4732]

Your honesty and willingness to share your experience is such a gift, particularly for those of us considering a move overseas with our spouses.Thank you for showing us how to be authentic and yet still curious, intuitive, and trusting travel partners.

[@sandihunter1260]

My husband and I felt like that in France. It was so comfortable, the people were amazing, the food was to die for. We always said we would love to live there.

[@charliemulligan1988]

Well done as always and thanks guys. Charlie from Boston, USA here. 59 years old recent widower. Two adult daughters one in California one in New York. I subscribed and I’ve been enjoying your videos tremendously. I started traveling earlier this year to Mexico and fell in love with a little town there. I will go next month and spend the winter. I joined the gym there I am looking at motorcycles, and I am only blocks to a beautiful beach with views of the Sierra Madre mountain range everywhere. I am still researching and I will keep my house this winter possibly next. But I do not love it here in America and you have helped me to see that I can re-create a home in Mexico. I appreciate you guys. thanks for doing what you do. I am sending you peace light and love from the USA.

[@rejaneroe9531]

What city near Sierra Madrid, please! I love Mexico but after few days I miss deeply the US structure.

[@charliemulligan1988]

@@rejaneroe9531 I fly Boston to Puerto Vallarta Mexico. There are a number of small towns along the Bandera Bay. Nuevo Vallarta Kinda high end , Mescala not so high end mostly Spanish Bucerias my favorite , La Cruz and then if you drive further outside Bandera bay is Punta Mita, San Pancho, Lo DeMarco but you are getting more remote, the further north.

[@susanharkema2888]

Although this is a wonderful travel discussion, it's also a model for healthy adult relationships no matter where you are. Really appreciate you both and your sharing. I really appreciate what you said about playing to strengths. We have a saying in our marriage..."We make a good team. I know what you mean, jelly bean."

[@amberlyda43]

I loved, loved, loved hearing from your wife. MORE!

[@baehrfam]

Really happy to see your newest video, thank you for sharing so much of you both with all of us, and giving us a glimpse of what a healthy, balanced, honest and loving marriage should be. You have clearly grown together as opposed to growing apart. Also, it seems there is a lot to love about France! And it seems like a place I could call home as well. Looking forward to what is next for you both! Xx

[@HB-lo8dj]

So enjoyed this discussion! We emigrated to the Netherlands from Cape Town over three years ago and I feel the same. I am very visual and I love living in Europe. France is my favorite amongst all the countries, but it is close enough to where we live. You are always welcome to visit us if you feel like experiencing the Dutch country side!

[@nylesgregory2120]

Oh, I think the two of you are darling and simply radiate. This is the 3rd in your series I've watched. Really high quality work and you both give me hope. Tough for me to acknowledge the fact you've been able to long-line four implied shared values you have with the French vs. Portugal adventure: variety of Food = immense/language is beautiful and appealing/Quality of "Pride of Home Ownership" and then there's the common ground in cultivating your artistic talents within a very "Art" oriented Community. So, it is great to see someone set up and be well prepared for the next chapter and next adventure. Again, appreciate your work and do have every hope and best wishes for you in the next round. I've already bought, launched and moved into Portugal. It will be interesting to see how stiff your level of next round of challenges will be when you find your next home? I'm still dealing with the "Year in Provence" challenges, but in Portugal. I can only pray your ride will be a smoother, less bumpy one. Okay, best wishes until next. Au revoir

[@jamescurtis6217]

Thanks for your top quality videos that work on so many levels. I`m an 80 year old Englishman living in Czechia but dreaming of France. Love how you work at your marriage and how you are able to articulate your feelings and ideas; wish that I had had access to your relationship philosophy from 40 or 50 years ago. C`est la vie.😘

[@joandelise145]

I love your honesty! I hope you find your forever home in France!💕💕💕

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you!

[@vervideosgiros1156]

@@BeneaththeSurfaceYT Hi! I didn't understand why it didn't work in Portugal. You made a video where you shown a bunch of places and the reasons why it didn't work out for you. You made another one where you seem to be happy with the move but in the end you said that it didn't work out. Sure, you are entitled to your opinion, of course, but I didn't understand why and I would like to understand...

[@hassavocadoaddictsanonymous]

They said overall it just didn’t feel like ‘home’

[@vervideosgiros1156]

@@hassavocadoaddictsanonymous Thank you. Yes, I know that but he was more specific about other places than with my country.

[@mrc1111-x5y]

I really enjoy your videos! My husband and I will be celebrating 32 years in April and listening to you sounds very similar to our relationship. Our dream is to move to either Ireland or the UK, so watching you is so inspirational. Thanks! 🙂

[@lisalamendola]

You have to be in a good place with your partner even to THINK about moving abroad (or to another state) as moving is so stressful. Plus you've added to it the opportunity to find the right place for where you will land, so living in small places can cause so much more stress on top of it. SO you both were in a good place to start this journey, making it enjoyable for us to watch and learn from.

[@stevenkeller3047]

You two are doing good. It's so refreshing to see people that realize that success in life comes from being mentally and emotionally awake and aware of who you are. With that, you'll do fine and soon find a new home, in France.

[@RZRSN75]

Great video, great couple and great adventure. I’ve been living in France for 17 years and I totally see your point of view about it. One comment from experience, the bureaucracy for a foreigner arriving in France can be really daunting. Some basic necessities that in America or even Portugal (I lived there would for 2 years as well) would be so simple - such as getting a phone line installed, opening a bank account, renting an apartment, etc - are indeed super hard when you first arrive in France. For me it seemed that they over complicate things so much for no reason. Later I understood there were always reasons that as a foreigner I just could not be expected to know. And it is not entirely to do with language, although speaking French helps, I know French Canadians who went thru similar pains as me. But I don’t want to scare you so let me add that once these initial processes are done and you are “in the system”, everything will work super well. So the really hard part is those first 6-12 months, but once that is done and you’ve understood why the rules are as they are and how they work, you will be able to navigate them and the bureaucracy will become at worst a minor inconvenience. So stick with France because it’s really worth it 🇫🇷☺️

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Great post, thanks so much!! ❤️

[@nikkiscott4341]

How pleasant it is to have someone emphasise the importance of attempting to use the native language. Trying is frustrating but is a sign of respect. People are much more likely to be patient. It's a door-opener.

[@lesliehahn4056]

Continue to appreciate you. Good to see you much happier than a couple months ago. You’re on the right path.

[@ananeto81]

Congratulations on your 33rd anniversary. Lots of love from Portugal

[@charlottethomas3877]

I am French and I live in Rouen, Normandy. You should come and visit, I think you might like the place. If you need help, I work for the Tourist Office of Rouen, I could show you around. 😊

[@Cz-De-Lifestyle]

I can tell you guys are past your " honeymoon phase" for long time. Thats when you know you past the test of time and know it will last.Marriage is a marathon, its usually the simple , practical and good communications that will prevail in the long run...not the romantic, lovey-dovey stuff people aspire on those matchmaking website. Thats what I see here in a 30-minute video about you, for sure being together that long ,you will have some ups and down,get under each others skin alot dealing with struggles. Its how you communicate and work out those trouble that makes you go the distance. So happy for both of you and wish ya'll the best with finding a beautiful home in France.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

So sweet of you, thank you so much. I hope you’ve been keeping up with our channels in the past year?

[@sandracrosse4237]

Such a GreaT couple. So positive and excited about life and their journey. 33 years together? Oh my God... no words.. and you still both LiKE each other! Love watching your channel

[@lisaleblanc1450]

I could listen to you guys chat for forever! Always so interesting to hear you discuss different things about life!

[@HapaHome]

I truly admire your bravery to make this huge life change and adventurous spirit exploring other countries. I enjoy your beautiful cinematic videos but also love these simple conversations to reflect on your experiences together as a couple.

[@anthonyfox477]

Awww you guys are so cute. What a lovely partnership - congrats on 33 years! My wife and I will be celebrating 15 years of marriage next month. We currently live in Portland and have our eyes set on Europe in the next few years. I know you will find a lovely home in France - it's a wonderful country.

[@karenvc8005]

Thank you for sharing your relocation journey and for presenting yourselves as people rather than "influencers". I always gget something out of your posts. My husband and I hope to make a similar transition in the future and France is tops on my list of places. Understanding and being compassion with your travel partner is probably one of the most important experiencees to plan for. Neither of us are "easy" people but we do share vision of how we want our life to be together and moving abroad has always been a mutual goal.

[@NadaAli]

I love watching how your journey unfolds , all the best of luck 🤞

[@nourybuttry5463]

It's so wonderful to see the beauty of your relationship reflected in this video. I wish I could move to where you are right now, but I have decided that I have to make my own magic. I love France and all about it, so I decided that right now where I reside, Winter Park, Florida, is "My France." You are both blessed to have each other. May you continue to pursue your happiness and your magic wherever the road takes you. Blessings. I'm excited for both of you. Excited about my own journey too. Au revoir!

[@deejames1st]

I love winter park

[@noreenn6976]

I love Winter Park also!

[@e.marievalgarsson1107]

So funny, I went to Winter Park High School in the 70s! The old town around Rollins College was so charming, a bit like France in many ways.

[@GreenWitch1]

That was a beautiful interaction! I really appreciate it. I’ll never know what it’s like to develop such a loving, forgiving long term relationship. But, you give me hope for my children. Their happiness means everything to me. Thank you so much for opening up to the rest of us ❤

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

🙏😁❤️

[@yvonnebirch6026]

What a lovely video ! Your boys are so blessed with parents like you. Congratulations with your anniversary. The awareness you both have for yourselves for each other and for your surroundings is wonderful. You fit right in in France. The FOOD ! Omg I know ! I love how your face lights up talking about it ! Speaking as a European (Dutch) after living in California for 40 years, how I miss the quality of the food in Europe. France especially. You will create a lovely home in France again. And if you let us we will follow your adventures eagerly ! Thank you ! 💕🌻

[@anaeliza5361]

Thank you for sharing so transparently, so authentically. And, as a European living in Amsterdam, may I say; welcome to Europe, we love and embrace beautiful people like you.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you, Ana, so sweet of you! ❤️😁

[@rabczanska]

We packed to moved to Spain while you packed to move to Portugal. I had trouble getting an agent to help with a rental. Finally gave up and looked on airbnb. The owner and I ended up siging a lease for 10 months. This gives us time to find a home of our own.

[@jenise2503]

I loved this talk. I'm very interested in your journey. As a visual person I was smitten when my husband and I visited Paris for our 30th anniversary. I cant wait to go back to France. Everything is a feast for the eyes. And yes, the quality of the food is amazing!

[@CatsInHats-S.CrouchingTiger]

It’s a blessing watching couples work together, who love each other. You’re amazing & inspirational! ❤Congratulations!

[@AngeliqueTraveler]

You have no idea what structure you have just between the two of you. Relying on the presence of your other half brought me the greatest joy… even through our tribulations and differences.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you, Angelique. It's something we actively work on. :)

[@doodleacademy]

I just signed up for your new course...excited to learn more about collaborative trip planning from someone who has been there! Watching this video, it seems that the two of you have a solid friendship. Being good friends with your spouse will help get you through life struggles. My hubs and I (married 33 years too!) are good friends and we genuinely like being together. We would like to (someday) do what you two are doing, travel and have adventures in Europe. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. Really appreciate your honesty. Best⭐

[@MetaMM]

After watching your video having an open conversation with your son, I become more attached to your channel although some months ago, your video of setting a new home that you both have finally found and settled in gave me such a relief and joy for you as I know how it must have felt. But now I am watching this video that just popped on my feeds, I couldn't agree more with your choice ot country to live in. Yes, I too love the food, the language, you guys have made the right decision indeed! Congrats to you both! Continued prosperity!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

A bit late, but thank you so much 🙏😁

[@karlageyer8779]

Guys I love hearing you talk, you’re both such wise and inspiring people, please keep sharing your adventures and thoughts. I appreciate it!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you and will do! I hope you’ve been keeping up with us over the past year?

[@saharl.simmons4147]

There's way too much time between your videos. 😊 I'd like to say that I manifested this treat because I was just searching for your videos last night and was sad that you hadn't posted in a month or more. Glad you're back! I'd like to know more about the French countryside ❤️

[@joyfultaylor7927]

Love how you always share your internal voices with us. I could almost see the journey of your thoughts like the physical one. It kind of helps me to reflect on myself too as we will soon be empty nesters & move to another country. Thank you for the great content!

[@hivolco151]

First I have to say I feel VERY jealous! I was born in Portland and live about 2 hours south right now! I love travel, but my best travel partners are no longer able to travel with me , ( several have died) Anyways I DO travel alone frequently, but miss that "shared" experience. I loved FRANCE.... so much that I really worked on the language barrier and was making a bit of progress... My German was a little better, but since Spanish is better I am leaning toward Central Mexico for the next trip. I still want to spend time in Italy as well... LOVE seeing you live the dream!!!

[@carolinefiller3745]

I really love your videos, as someone in my fifties also, I love that you have taken this wonderful leap of faith. I have been watching Nathaniel for a few years, i love his passion, his joie de vivre and his kind heart and I see both of you reflected in him. Je vous souhaitent beaucoup de joie et d'aventures en France et surtout le chez vous que vous recherchez.

[@carrieking3907]

Absolutely loved this. Thank you. I have been following since the first episode (from Anacortes) and am riveted by your experiences. I swear you are both aging in reverse. Clearly, you are happy and living your best lives---Nathaniel would be proud. Looking forward to the next episode!

[@NarcissetheArtiste]

You all are such cool individuals. Together, a healthy example of a couple. I love how openly you talk to one another. I am newly located in the Rhineland falls area of Germany (near Trier), and much of the countryside looks very similar to France’s. I’m astounded when I explore the local area as well. Y’all should visit! It’s not so far of a drive from Paris.

[@imaginetraveltours]

Bonjour and fun to watch your video and excitement of moving to France. We are Californians living in France. We did exactly what you are doing 8yrs ago! so listening and watching to you is revisiting what we went through including thinking that Portugal was going to be our "spot" and going there and not vibing with it at all 8yrs ago. We've lived in France long term/on off for 6yrs and have lived in almost every part of France now. Love to meet up if we are ever in the same area. Currently we live in Provence/South and are moving February to the Dordogne Middle/Southwest of France. We've been thru it ALL and happy to share any hints you might need. I ate tarte citron and champagne daily when I first moved here,,,,because you can! haha can't do it forever sadly! Don't be anxious about finding the house and car, it will all sort itself out, or in our case, we gave up on buying because we wanted to explore and live in all parts to know which part is our True final spot. renting long term, 3 months, 6 months over a year is also a great way to live in France and have been to so many places that the French themselves have never been, is worth more than a permanent home for us. Bon Chance and Welcome to expat life i n France.

[@heliedecastanet1882]

Hey ! That could be interesting to hear from Californians what differences between the southwest and the southeast of France they found 🙂 For the French people, they are two totally different south. As a French, I must say that I was accustomed to the southeast (we have a family house near Cannes) but since I visited the Aveyron, the Lot and Lot-et-Garonne, I fell in love with this "other" south. It is so, so beautiful. You are really right to go to Dordogne 🙂 Enjoy !!!

[@evepatchett8481]

So beautiful to hear you both talk realistically and lovingly about your marriage and adventures. I wish you both well as you continue in your journey through life.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much 🙏😁

[@arthurstrathern7069]

LOVE this video. Thanks for having us along for the ride.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

And thank YOU! 🙏

[@Kiwiwanderer]

Love this video. Keep it up. It’s honest. I’m at the cusp of this journey / chapter of my life. My adult daughter has her own home and I’m rattling around a large home I need to rent to generate income , reduce my full time work hours and start a more balanced life with more hiking, camping and travel. Thanks for sharing.

[@CatalinaCNV]

Ustedes dos son una pareja absolutamente encantadora! Love how candid, real and yet loving this video was. Very important to allow each other have a bad day and feel in any way they might feel.

[@lim732]

What a JOY watching this video!!!! Both of you are artist who appreciate quality in life's treasures. So nice to see you find your "home" in France. Quality in life is definitely lacking in the US. US has missed its mark, where money/profits has replaced quality. I feel the same way as you do when I travel abroad.

[@e5013]

What a great conversation! And what a beautiful and mature couple you are!! Congratulations!

[@lindao1327]

I’m from Scotland and I love France. Your videos are so informative and anyone thinking of moving to a different country would possibly benefit watching. I am settled in my home country but love to visit Europe. I have to say also the USA has many beautiful states. Life would be boring if we all thought the same. Good luck to you both.

[@karinoppermannyt]

Sorry Josh, this is to Cecilia😊she resonates totally with me. I sold my home and since ten month I am in the same condition like you and Josh. So when you talk about what is “having no home” I know what it means. Regrets? No. I am German, 58, living in Italy for 35 years and looking for a home in Tuscany. The feeling about France is similar to what I feel in Italy. Quality time, love for good food and sharing time together at the table, beautiful landscapes, kind people. I am sure you will find a beautiful home in France. Personally I love the Provence. Where are you actually? Wish you all the best, warmly Karin Ps. Congrats for your videos Josh

[@followyourbliss973]

All the discomfort/stress is part of the learning process. Congrats for getting out of your comfort zone...especially for Cecilia! Enjoy the adventure!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you 🙏