WELCOME TO LIFE WITH THE JACKSON FAMILY! Hello, I'm Brenda Jackson, but you can call me "Bee." As a wife and mother of four boys, life is never dull! Recently, we made a big move from Alberta, Canada to Texas, USA, with our two younger sons, aged 12 and 15. Our two older sons, aged 28 and 29, have stayed back in Canada. Join us on this journey as we share the highs and lows of our eventful life. From major relocations to everyday happenings, we aim to inspire and connect with families, parents, and children who are on their own distinctive journeys. Whether it's a laugh, some guidance, or a feeling of belonging you seek, we're here to add a sprinkle of happiness and support to your day.
Hit subscribe and join our adventure! #JacksonFamily #FamilyLife #AdventureAwaits #BusyLife #FamilyAdventures
Thank you for connecting! We're happy to hear that you are finding value to our video. If there are any topics you like us to cover, let us know. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Nice video Jacksons! Reg. homestead exemptions - be aware that applying for a homestead exemption is available online in most counties and it is FREE! You only need your Texas drivers license with the address of your new home on it, to apply. DO NOT PAY anyone to get your homestead exemption. Beware of the "Homestead designation" scams. Homestead exemption gives you $100k off the school district portion of your property taxes. It also caps your annual increases to 10%. Seniors get a ceiling on their ISD portion of the property tax.
Great tip and thanks for connecting on our channel. We appreciate the interaction. Don't forget to like and subscribe if you haven't already. God Bless.
Lol I guess I do have some of that in me. Missed my calling maybe. Thanks for connecting Wyatt. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already. God Bless.
Hello Folks! How are you doing there ..Eh? You might want to do a short video Comparing the Income Tax Rates (at the Federal level ) in the US comparde to Canada.! Now go crack open a couple of Cold Molsons' ..or Cold Shiner Beers and enjoy your weekend! 😅
Thank you for connecting, Eh! lol That's a great idea, and we will work on a video. All is great and even keeping hockey up with the boys in Texas. Cold Beers on the weekends are a must! Cheers. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
This channel is going to be a gold mine. My wife and I are planning on moving on down and seeing some smiling canadians explaining the process is making my day
Thank you for connecting! We're happy to hear you are finding some gems in our channel. It will definitely help you in the process of moving to Texas. Wishing you all the best! If there are topics you like us to discuss, please let us know. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Lol yes Modelo is one of my favorites as well. Thanks for connecting to our channel. We appreciate the interaction. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already. God Bless.
maybe if you and your spouse are in good shape, healthy, with work benefits..... I'm insulin-dependent diabetic and my wife has multiple health problems...
Thank you for connecting and sharing your situation with us. Moving to Texas has been a positive experience for us, but we understand that healthcare is a crucial factor, especially when dealing with health conditions like yours and your wife’s. One thing to consider is exploring different health insurance options in the U.S. before making a move, especially if you’re insulin-dependent and have multiple health concerns. The healthcare system here works differently than in Canada, so researching plans that cover your specific needs is key. If you’re coming through work benefits, check what the coverage includes for pre-existing conditions and ongoing care, and compare different providers to find the best fit. It might also be helpful to consult with a U.S. insurance broker who can guide you through the options. Texas has some great medical facilities, but navigating the system can be a challenge, so preparation is important. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Thank you for connecting! Moving to Texas can be a great option, and there are several steps to help you get started. Here's a general breakdown of what you'll need to do: 1. Check Visa Requirements: Moving from Canada to the U.S. will require a visa. You can explore options such as a work visa, business visa, or even applying for permanent residency. The U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada is a good place to start for visa information. 2. Finding a Place to Live: Research the area you’re interested in, like Texas! Sites like Zillow and Realtor will help you explore housing options. It’s good to have a general idea of the cost of living and the neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle. 3. We share a few videos that maybe helpful to watch with links in the descriptions. Check them out! We cover moving from Canada to the U.S. in more depth. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-5y_-_EbmBQM.html ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-2dxmTm0nuuw.html ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-Kkdhmi0NOOc.html We also recommend reaching out to an immigration lawyer or consultant who can guide you through the legal process if you have difficulty doing it yourself. Good luck on your journey! Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already. Links for Immigration Information www.uscis.gov.com www.travel.state.gov.com
Thank you for connecting! We have one life to live, so we are doing our best to enjoy it! Wishing you all the best! Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Do you have a video on schools? Where can one read about the system in general and is it possible to remotely select a school? Are good schools difficult to get into?
Thank you for connecting! We haven't made a video specifically about schools yet, but it's a great idea! Here are the links and resources to help you explore schools in Texas, including their ratings and enrollment processes: 1. Texas Education Agency (TEA) School Finder Search for schools, view accountability ratings, and explore districts across Texas: tea.texas.gov/texas-schools/school-performance/reports 2. GreatSchools.org Compare schools with ratings, parent reviews, and detailed insights: www.greatschools.org 3. Niche.com Another site that ranks schools based on academics, safety, and feedback from students and parents: www.niche.com/k12/search/best-public-schools/ These should give you a great start for researching schools remotely! Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Nice video. I'm an American living in Toronto. I moved there from Buffalo via marriage and chose to move there because of it being a big tech center - If only we knew covid was going to happen and it wouldn't matter where I worked .... anyway, reason number one I wouldn't move to Texas or anywhere south east is the weather 😂 I hate the heat and no matter the temp in the winter up north I generally wear nothing more than a hoodie and love it. As far as the health care - I would argue both countries as terrible. And in fact, health care is mostly terrible no matter where you are. Of course, emergency services are fine, but anything beyond that is just bad. Sleep, keep stress low, diet, exercise etc - meaning, the best healthcare is to avoid healthcare
Thank you for connecting and sharing your perspective! It's interesting how the pandemic changed the need to be in a specific location for work. I get why'd you'd prefer Toronto over the heat in the south- sounds like you're built for the cold! And make a great point about healthcare -preventative care like sleep, diet, and exercise is definitely key no matter where you live. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Hi, as a Canadian you can come to the US for 6 months a year without affecting pensions, healthcare etc however to become a PR you need to apply for a Visa. Link is here for the types of available visas. travel.state.gov/content/travel.html Appreciate the interaction. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already. God Bless.
Thank you for connecting! I am a US citizen by birth, so I was able to sponsor my husband into the US. However, there are a few was that you may be eligible to apply for a visa to live in the US. Go on the USCIS website to check if you fall in any of the categories. travel.state.gov/content/travel.html Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Thank you for connecting! That’s a good question! Many people choose Texas for the lower cost of living, job opportunities, and no state income tax. We’re working on content to help Canadians understand what it’s like to move to the U.S. and how it can affect their pensions and other benefits, so stay tuned. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
I moved to Virginia the weather is actually quite nice in winter it doesnt get too cold, Texas is just so hot during summers we have mild winters it actually more bearable.
Thank you for connecting! That’s great to hear! Virginia’s climate does have its perks with mild winters, and you’re right, Texas summers can be intense. Each state has its own unique appeal depending on what you’re looking for in terms of weather. Thanks for sharing your experience! Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Thank you for connecting! We appreciate your passion! It’s always great to see people engaged in the political process. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Thank you for connecting! As parents, you can only hope your children will have opportunities! You never know! Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Hi thanks for connecting to our channel. I believe in the end we were responsible for about $1900. The bill originally was in the neighborhood of $6k if I recall. The $1900 amount is applied directly to our family deductible. Once your deductible is fully paid then coverage is 100%. Remember that there is no state income tax here in Texas as well. Appreciate the interaction. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already. God Bless.
Hi thanks for connecting to our channel. You can use this link here to see what Visas are available and what you could be eligible for. travel.state.gov/content/travel.html We appreciate the interaction. Don't' forget to subscribe if you haven't already. God Bless.
Hi Wyatt, we did move about a year and a half ago to a city just outside of San Antonio. It took some time getting adjusted after the move, but we have settled in well. Both our boys are thriving in school and their sports. We really are enjoying Texas. So much to see and do. There are and will be so many opportunities for the kids both educationally and economically. Hoping all is well with you. Don't forget to subscribe of you haven't already. God Bless.
Thank you for connecting! That’s exciting! Moving to Texas from Canada involves navigating visas and possibly work permits, but it’s definitely doable, especially with the right preparation. Below I have a link for you to view to investigate your options. If you require further information or direction, it might be worth consulting an immigration lawyer to help guide you through the process. Wishing you and your wife all the best with your move! travel.state.gov/content/travel.html Don't for to subscribe if you haven't already.
Thank you for connecting! We are happy you love the music in the background and are thrilled you believe it makes the video more enjoyable. Thank you...thank you! Many have found it distracting, so there are 2 exact videos for people to watch. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Hi thanks for connecting to our channel. I am a US citizen, so I was able to sponsor my husband and kids for their green cards. You can use this link here to see what Visas you could be eligible for. travel.state.gov/content/travel.html We appreciate the interaction. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already. God Bless.
@@BrendaBeeJacksonyes we have subscribed to your channel so we can learn more. My son holds US status but lives in Canada as well and we’ve been told he needs to reside in US to sponsor me in
No, a U.S. citizen does not necessarily have to reside in the U.S. to sponsor their Canadian parents for U.S. immigration (such as applying for a green card). However, they must demonstrate that they intend to reside in the U.S. when their parents immigrate. To sponsor parents, the U.S. citizen would need to file an I-130 petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). As part of the process, the petitioner must provide evidence that they either reside in the U.S. or plan to establish residency there when the parents move. This can include showing U.S.-based employment, a home, or other ties to the U.S. to prove intent. Hope this helps.
I’m from SouthAmerica. I went to study in Seguin Texas at Texas Lutheran University close to new braunfels. My parents ended up moving to the Woodlands 45 minutes away from Houston and my siblings also live there. We moved with my wife to Canada back in 2010. We love Canada but the communist who is in power Trudeau has ruined this country. I’m a Financial Planner working for a bank here. I. Becoming self employed. My wife is already self employed. We will be receiving our permanent residence for the US in 5 years. We are considering moving with a visa that allows us to work there investing 70k in a business. We do miss Texas, we hate what is happening to Canada. Investors are leaving and the country is teething destroyed by these woke globalists. You made a good desicion. “Dont mess wit Texas”..😂
Thank you for connecting and sharing your journey! It sounds like you’ve experienced life in both Texas and Canada, and I get where you're coming from. There's definitely a lot of debate about the direction of both countries right now. Best of luck with your permanent residence in the U.S. and your business ventures! Texas will always hold a special place for many of us-‘Don’t mess with Texas! Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Hi thanks for connecting to our channel. I am a US citizen, so I was able to sponsor my husband and kids for their green cards. You can use this link here to see what Visas you could be eligible for. travel.state.gov/content/travel.html We appreciate the interaction. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already. God Bless.
Thank you for connecting! We are happy to hear you are interested in what we are sharing. We are aware the music in the background maybe distracting for many, so we uploaded the exact video WITHOUT MUSIC (we couldn't edit the video). Check it out. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
I have family in US, I’ve been there couple times( not in Texas) , but personally I’ll take Canada ! Yes maybe cold, maybe too liberal, maybe not doing too good these 3-4 years , but in my opinion Canada is cleaner , safer , paid healthcare, same income almost I’m from Ontario ( not sure how Alberta is )?for me usa is a great country but not better than Canada .. everyone is different.
Thank you for connecting! It's great that you've had the chance to experience both the U.S. and Canada! Every country has its pros and cons, and it’s all about personal preference. Canada definitely has the edge when it comes to healthcare and some other benefits, but the U.S. has its unique advantages as well. We love hearing different perspectives, and you're right-everyone's experiences are different. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Texas was too hot. No AC and 110-115F. My gf at the time got caught in a mall. Luckily her and her son were safe. My other gf was not conservative churchgoing and lived in a nice area. But her fan was well off. HOA’s suck. Lotsa paperwork in USA with levels of taxes. Same as Canada. 40% is a lot. You trade one thing for another.
Thank you for connecting! Texas heat can definitely be intense! I'm glad your girlfriend and her son were safe. HOA's can be tricky, especially with all the rules, and yes, the paperwork and taxes here in the U.S. can be a bit much! It’s true what you said, there’s always a trade-off, whether it's in the U.S. or Canada. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Thank you for connecting! I was born in the USA and hold a dual citizenship which has made the move much easier. However, we went through the proper channels to relocate and had everything lined up. I had to sponsor Leon (Alien Relative), to live and work in the USA. Leon did line up a job prior which was definitely helpful! Each situation is unique, so I recommend checking with immigration authorities to get the most accurate info for your move from Calgary. Good luck with your plans! Here's a link travel.state.gov/content/travel.html Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Thank you for connecting! We are originally from Ontario and both of us grew up in Thunder Bay area. We are aware of the music that maybe distracting for many. We could not edit the video; however, we posted the exact video without music. Go check it out. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Thank you for connecting! That’s true! To live here year-round, you typically need a visa, permanent residency (Green Card), or citizenship. The process can take several years, depending on the route you choose, but it’s worth the effort! If you are interested in exploring your options, I have added a link below. travel.state.gov/content/travel.html Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Congratulations, now make sure you don’t screw it up and vote the wrong way, vote right. A lot of people are using their right to vote, just many don’t use their brain to choose the right candidate.
Thank you for connecting and the congratulations! I truly believe in voting with my heart and mind, considering what’s best for our community and the country. It’s so important to make an informed decision when we cast that ballot! Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Thank you for connecting! Great point! Moving here for good does require the right visa or residency status. Many Canadians come as snowbirds, but for longer stays, it’s best to explore immigration options. There’s a lot to consider. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Thank you for connecting! That is awesome RU-vid was suggested to you and that you are from Morinville! Small world isn't! Don't forget to subscribe if you have not already!
Hi Brenda, First off thank you for bringing Awareness to "October Breast Cancer 🎀 Month"... Yes that is Very Important to us Gals over 40 + I have to see if I can squeeze in that appointment for mines. Nonetheless, Prayers for you at this time in that your results come out Negatively Positive 🙏... Although it will be a scary moment, think positive and know that God is the God of Healing. Rely on his Power to bring out the Best outcome. Keeping you in my Prayers 🙏❣️
Thank you for connecting and your kind words and prayers! Yes, early detection is so important, and I’m so glad you’re planning to schedule your appointment. I’m staying positive and trusting in God’s healing power. I truly appreciate your support! Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already.
Hi thanks for connecting to our channel. We will be posting a video soon about that very topic along with OAS. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already so you can catch that video. Appreciate the interaction. God Bless.
You mention your kids want to do a video. If they do can they be as candid as possible. I have 3 of my own that I'd like to know an honest opinion from the kids perspective. Thankyou
Hi thanks for connecting to our channel. Yes, our boys will be doing a video soon. Don't forget to subscribe so you can catch that video. Appreciate the interaction. God Bless.
I cant believe at all someone with nice weather would want to live in Texas HELL HOLE!!! Feels like absolute Death Shit for like 9 months out of the year. I still cant believe anyone would claim texas has nice weather. Its insnae
Hi thanks for connecting to our channel. This summer has been great except maybe for a week or two in August where it was a bit warm. Appreciate the connection. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already. God Bless.
Hi thanks for connecting to our channel. We used to live in Thunder Bay years ago and moved to Alberta in 2013 before venturing down here to Texas. We moved to Alberta for the economy and the lower cost of living. We were at the age where the weather and the desire to provide more options and opportunities for our boys. We believe we chose right. Appreciate the connection. Don't forget to subscribe if you haven't already. God Bless.
Hi, we left Ontario for Alberta. Alberta is a great province and the people are great. If you are looking at the US as an option, you can see what VISAs you could be eligible with this link here. travel.state.gov/content/travel.html God Bless.
