In this episode of Away We Go We Go, we’re getting real about something that doesn’t show up on postcards: what it’s actually like to live in Provence during the winter. While the region is often romanticized for lavender fields and endless summer, winter brings a very different rhythm—slower days, quieter villages, fewer open businesses, colder homes, and a noticeable emotional shift. We talk honestly about the contrast between expectations and reality, from the lack of central heating and high energy costs to the way entire towns can feel like ghost towns once the tourist season ends.

We also share what winter looks like for us as a family living here full time, especially with young kids. Between weeks of rain, limited outdoor time, and navigating school schedules and closures, winter requires a lot more planning, flexibility, and acceptance. At the same time, there are unexpected positives: a calmer pace, deeper connections with other expats who stay through the season, and the chance to experience Provence as locals do—through seasonal markets, winter produce, and quieter routines that invite rest.

This episode is about perspective, trade-offs, and learning as you go. Whether you’re dreaming of moving abroad, planning a winter trip to the south of France, or already living here and wondering if it’s just you—this is a candid look at the season most people don’t talk about. Winter in Provence isn’t for everyone, but with the right expectations, planning, and mindset, it can still be meaningful, grounding, and even quietly beautiful.

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-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-

In this episode of Away We Go We Go, we’re finally back after an unexpectedly long holiday break and kicking off 2026 with a real-life catch-up. Between 17 straight days home with the twins, festive traditions in Provence, and a December fueled almost entirely by sugar, we talk through what the holidays actually looked like for us—equal parts magical, chaotic, and exhausting. From toddler performances and gingerbread house disasters to that familiar post-Christmas emotional dip, this episode is an honest look at family life abroad during the holidays.

We also share the reset we didn’t know we needed: a rare kid-free staycation that gave us space to rest, reconnect, and slow down after weeks of nonstop motion. We reflect on why building in intentional pauses matters—especially as parents—and how even a short break can change everything. We wrap things up with highlights from festive coastal light displays, the reality of winter in Europe, and a candid recap of how sickness hit at the worst possible time (and how teamwork carried us through).

This episode is a soft re-entry into the new year—warm, reflective, and real. If the holidays left you feeling full, tired, or a little wrung out, this one is a reminder that rest counts, survival is enough, and sometimes the best way forward is to slow down first.

Links:
Maison de Frederic (Instagram)
Sanary-sur-Mer

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review if you’re enjoying the show, and thank you for being a part of our journey.

Contact info:

Instagram:

@the_eptons

-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-

In this episode of Away We Go We Go, Sophie and Jordan sit down with Maddie and Shelby to unpack what it really looks like to move abroad—not just the highlight reel, but the growth, discomfort, and unexpected joy that come with it. From having limited travel experience to packing up their entire lives and relocating to London, Maddie and Shelby share how one job opportunity turned into a four-year adventure filled with learning, resilience, and confidence-building moments. They reflect on those early days of culture shock, navigating visas, finding a place to live, and realizing just how big (and overwhelming) London can feel at first.

The conversation dives into the realities of building community abroad, especially as adults, and how patience, vulnerability, and putting yourself out there are often the key to finding your people. Maddie opens up about creating friendships from scratch—through pub quizzes, meetups, and trial-and-error—while Shelby shares how work and shared interests helped him settle more quickly. Together, they talk candidly about how living abroad reshaped their relationship, strengthened communication, and taught them how to support each other through uncertainty and stress.

They also reflect on travel as a catalyst for growth, including Maddie’s goal of visiting 30 countries before turning 30, unforgettable trips across Europe, and learning to handle when plans go sideways. This episode is an honest, approachable reminder that moving abroad isn’t about perfection or constant excitement—it’s about showing up, staying open, and allowing discomfort to shape who you become. Whether you’re dreaming of life abroad or simply craving a mindset shift, this conversation offers both inspiration and reassurance.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review if you’re enjoying the show, and thank you for being a part of our journey.

Contact info:

Instagram:

@the_eptons

-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-