November Newsletter

Welcome to the newsletter from Distance Families

DISTANCE FAMILIES NEWS

Living as an expat in New Zealand or Australia comes with similar and diverse experiences. Both countries offer stereotypical images of beaches, exotic scenery and a sense of paradise -  and these exist for sure. However, navigating the day to day inevitably delivers a few surprises along the way.
 
After many years in the relocation/global mobility business Robyn and Bridget are well-qualified to offer ways to adjust and thrive as an expat in Australia or New Zealand.
 
This event is free and open to new and older expats & migrants along with all those interested in global mobility. It is also perfect for anyone considering moving to NZ or Australia.

​If you can’t join us live the session will be recorded. It is necessary to register in advance to receive the recording link.
There will be an unrecorded Q & A session at the end of the webinar for those attending on the day.

REGISTER HERE

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BOOK SERIES NEWS

​For the past few months I have been buried in the next book project, Being a Distance Grandchildren. I’ve done a good number of Zoom interviews with young adult and adult Distance Grandchildren from all around the world. Before I started this project I had absolutely no idea how it would eventuate, how interviewees would respond and importantly did they (and I!) actually have something significant to say that deserved a book to be written. I can report the research process has been such a privilege. Gems of reflections, legacies and stories have been shared that have touched my heart but also blown me away. I am very excited about this book. Here’s a sample:

It was an intense time of loving. You had to pack a whole five years of love into a visit of a few weeks.

My grandpa got Alzheimer’s the year before he died. He went downhill rapidly. But a couple of days before he passed, he had a moment of clarity. He held my hand and actually said, ‘You’re my best friend’.

​I really feel he [late grandfather] is sitting on my shoulder and he is the one showing me the way, helping me with my decisions. This is a connection I cannot explain.

Being a Distance Grandchild - a Book for ALL Generations will be published later in 2024. Click below to go into a draw to win a free copy.

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ON THE HOME FRONT

​Distance Families find comfort in the familiar background settings of video calls especially if they've previously visited. You’ve sat on that sofa, you’ve eaten at the table, and dined outside on the deck.

During the last couple of months, and quite coincidentally, our three distance adult children and families have all moved house (see photos). There are new backgrounds, new furniture and new decor. When I next visit there’s also new neighbourhoods to explore and become familiar with.

​Accepting change and embracing the unfamiliar are superpowers of doing Distance Families – and it works in both directions.

​And of course, hubby and I are moving next year also. If you missed that memo last month here a link to our house for sale. Please spread the word to returning expats and migrants heading to Auckland, NZ.

​Take care until next time
Helen Ellis
 
P.S. Not registered to receive this monthly newsletter? You may register on the right of this page. Thanks for your support. HE