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.

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@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.

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@the_eptons

-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-

In this festive episode, Sophie and Jordan cozy up on the couch to share what the holiday season looks like in France, especially now that their twins are old enough to feel the magic. They paint a vivid picture of Aix-en-Provence in December—from the glowing Christmas markets and mulled wine stands along the Cours Mirabeau to carolers, children’s rides, raclette vendors, and beautifully decorated shops throughout the city. They also preview their upcoming plans, including the Christmas market at Château de Mille, a family dinner at La Mas Gorde, and finally visiting the famous holiday lights of Sanary-sur-mer.

They dive into some uniquely Provençal traditions like Les Treize Desserts and artisan-made santons, and reflect on how French Christmas Eve celebrations differ from what they grew up with in the U.S. The two talk about blending traditions—embracing rich French holiday dishes, preparing for Hanukkah with latkes and kugel, and keeping a few American staples like green bean casserole on the table.

The episode closes with a look at what it feels like to raise kids abroad during the holidays and how their community in France has made this season feel especially meaningful. It’s a warm, easygoing chapter full of family energy, cultural discovery, and holiday spirit.

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:

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@the_eptons

-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-

In this solo episode of Away We Go We Go, Jordan opens up about navigating the holiday season as an expat in France, from the unexpected quiet of celebrating Thanksgiving abroad to the warmth of carving out new rituals as a family. He shares a peek into their recent holiday weekend—enjoying rare downtime while the twins were in school, exploring nearby towns, savoring great meals, and soaking up small moments of rest while Sophie battles some voice and sinus issues.

Jordan reflects on the emotional side of spending the holidays away from familiar traditions, touching on nostalgia, FOMO, and the surprising ways memories resurface. He compares U.S. holiday staples with French customs like Noël feasts, bûche de Noël, and the Provençal “13 Desserts,” and talks about how expats adapt by blending old and new traditions—Friendsgiving, local dishes, and rituals that help them feel connected despite distance. He also dives into the deeper identity questions expats wrestle with: belonging, staying grounded through uncertainty, and finding pride and gratitude in choosing a path that’s challenging, unconventional, and deeply rewarding.

The episode closes with an honest look at how living abroad shapes personal resilience, relationships, and family life—especially raising toddlers while far from home—and Jordan invites listeners to share their own stories of how they honor traditions, create new ones, and find meaning during the holidays while living away from their home country.

Keywords: expat life, holidays abroad, Thanksgiving abroad, Christmas in France, Provence Christmas markets, Les Treize Desserts, Friendsgiving, living abroad, homesickness, cultural traditions

Links:

• www.czgalerie.com
• https://agastache-restaurant.fr/
• https://grenache-aix.eatbu.com/?lang=fr
• https://open.spotify.com/artist/2DuHHTBRgNc3KNNNaQdooH?si=4RWScv4RQSiums54XW1Ghg

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-

Join Sophie and her mom Camy for a charming deep dive into Provence shopping — from magical Christmas markets to iconic brocantes, antiques, French fashion, and the artisanal foods that make this region a dream for every traveler.

In this episode, we explore:
• Why Provence and France are some of the best places in the world to shop
• The most memorable Christmas markets and what makes them so enchanting
• Provençal foods worth bringing home: lavender honey, jams, truffle goodies & more
• How to spot quality vendors at local marchés
• The best flea markets and antique shops (including hidden gems!)
• What to buy for the perfect French-inspired gift
• Provençal vs. Parisian fashion + where to shop for linens, scarves & effortless French style
• Our favorite small producers, artisans, and can’t-miss local boutiques

Whether you’re planning holiday shopping in France or dreaming of a future trip, this guide will help you shop Provence like a local — savoring beauty, craftsmanship, and the joy of finding treasures you’ll cherish forever.

Keywords: Provence shopping, Provence markets, French Christmas markets, Provence antiques, brocantes, French fashion, shopping in France, Provence travel tips

Links:

https://www.lesagnels.com/en/
https://maisondoramaar.org/events/christmas-market/
https://www.fairepress.com/marchedenoel2025
https://beaurepos.fr/
https://www.instagram.com/laboutiquedelantiquaire
https://www.facebook.com/BrocantedeCarpentras/
https://chez-serge.fr/
https://www.pucesdeparissaintouen.com/en/
https://www.instagram.com/yourfrench_rendezvous/
https://www.instagram.com/frenchlarkspur/
https://www.souleiado.com/
https://www.fragonard.com/
https://www.instagram.com/le_104_rdm/
https://isabelmarant.com/
https://www.lagrandeboutique.net/fr/
https://www.jerome-dreyfuss.com/en
https://jamiebeck.co/
https://amandadaniel.com/

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-

Thinking about moving to France? In this episode, Sophie and Jordan share the honest, unfiltered reality of expat life in the South of France — from cultural differences and surprising lifestyle adjustments to navigating bureaucracy, parenting, and daily rhythms that look nothing like life in the U.S. If you’ve ever dreamed of starting fresh in France, this is the episode you need before you pack your bags.

In this episode, Sophie and Jordan are finally back together behind the mic — catching up after a whirlwind stretch of travel that took them from Paris to London to California. They share their favorite Paris discoveries, from hidden hotels and perfect fries to their go-to Lebanese spot and the surprisingly luxurious Italian train that connects Aix to Paris. The conversation then jumps across the Atlantic as they recount their California adventures — tacos, sunsets, ice cream, and the joy (and exhaustion) of working while traveling.

Back home in France, they dive into real life again — jet lag, parenting twin toddlers, and navigating the quirks of the French school calendar. Sophie and Jordan also answer listener questions about expat life: from whether French bureaucracy or the French language is harder to master, to what’s in season at the fall markets, and how healthcare works in France compared to the U.S. Their honest, funny reflections give a glimpse into the highs, hiccups, and heart behind building a new life abroad.

Whether you’re dreaming of moving overseas or just love hearing how others make bold changes work, this episode blends travel inspiration, practical insights, and the relatable chaos of expat family life. Grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of French wine) and settle in for stories of Paris charm, California comfort, and the real realities of life between two worlds.

Links:
https://www.hotelparticulier.com/

https://www.legrandmazarin.com/fr/

https://www.instagram.com/des.jacqueries/

https://www.restaurant-liza.com/

https://www.walmercastle-nottinghill.co.uk/

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-