Watching the news from Amsterdam has brought up a mix of sadness, anger, worry, and helplessness - especially as community members continue to protest and demand accountability in the face of federal immigration operations and violence.  I am also feeling so proud of Minnesotans who are brave, kind and resisting - despite their fear and bitter cold temperatures.  Living internationally, far from home is very hard - as I want to support and show up for the community I care abo

❄️ For the past few days, it’s been snowing in Amsterdam. I know it will be short lived and it's been a bit disruptive.  Snow always makes me feel nostalgic. I grew up with long, cold winters where fresh snow made things look beautiful, lifted moods, and kids and adults wanted to be outside playing. These brief snowy days in Amsterdam tie me to earlier versions of myself and remind me how much I love winter. From a therapeutic perspective, nostalgia is not a step backward bu

Think again — the emotional work can last years, and it’s often overlooked. Just over a week ago, I delivered a virtual presentation to staff at the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in Parma, Italy titled: “Let’s Talk About Integration: Navigating Life in a New or Not-So-New Location.” We explored what adjustment after relocation really looks like — not just paperwork and housing, but belonging, identity, and the emotional impact of building a life in a new (or not-so-ne

Did you read the first two posts in the series?  1️⃣  In  September Shifting  I shared ideas for easing the fall transition after summer,...

In my last post  September Shifting I wrote about seasonal changes - cooler days, yellow leaves, it's dark earlier in the evening - and...

This morning, when I went out for my early run, I really noticed a change in the weather.  Just last week, I spotted a few yellow leaves...

🌏 Coming back after visiting your home country can be a swirl of emotions. You might be feeling homesickness, culture shock, ...

It’s something I often say to clients , and my family is living it right now. We are in another transition: our son is finishing...

🎉 The highlight of every month, the 4th Tuesday of the month - is hosting Netwalking and our June Amsterdam Netwalk is nearly here. ...

Moving abroad means you’re constantly making decisions — all while navigating:   ✔️Cultural differences ✔️Language barriers ✔️New systems...

Yes! A walk can help you connect in your new or not-so-new community. See my video below for why I think a walk can foster connection. ...

With research programs being cut and university funding under threat, many scientists may be  exploring opportunities abroad.  Just this...

“We don’t know how long we’ll be here.”   I sure have.   Maybe it's you who is facing this uncertainty! Are you living with “one foot...

I am hearing the chatter - many people are considering leaving the U.S and need information.   It's true, there are beautiful buildings...

Phone a friend, or Relocation Counseling and Consulting for more support! One of the top challenges I hear about from those who have...

However you describe yourself, life after a relocation involves a lot of emotions and uncertainty. Here are a few steps you can take that...

As a person who has relocated, you may still feel like you don't really belong in your new or not-so-new community.  You don't know your...

As an international, I’ve learned some meaningful lessons about friendship.  Recently, I had the chance to reunite with my longtime...

Do you feel like your confidence has been challenged after a relocation? Even after living abroad for years? I have one action you can...

Happy New Year! Are you energized by new beginnings, or feeling a post-holiday letdown? For some, the holidays bring challenges—high...