Travel wise, you could do some amazing trips within the UK - outer Hebrides, Northern Ireland, Shetland! Isle of Man/Jersey/Guernsey. I think the passport limitations could be turned into a great opportunity to explore closer to home ❤
We did an epic U.K. van trip last summer, I loved it! Don’t have a baby friendly van yet and also Neo doesn’t love being in the car but maybe we can go somewhere closer to home ☺️
What about bike camping? There are some Amazing bike with light trailers that have beds in them …so one could have the trailer to sleep in and maybe one with front and back baby seats…front where you seen him and he’s right by you and then in the back? Could be fun
I've got 4 kids. 1, 2, & 3 were born in the USA. #4 was born in Asia, and we live in Africa now. I've homeschooled all over the place as we've travelled, and my kids have thrived. One has finished university now, another is halfway through. Every situation is different, but you might want to consider homeschooling. It doesn't have to be isolating, as it has been stereotyped. Instead, you can build an intentional, intergenerational, and supportive community that doesn't insist on conformity. Praying for you guys to enjoy your adventure and know what's best for you 3 as a unit.
My kids are 9 and 7 now, but I literally started reading books to them the first night home from the hospital. I think it’s great that you are exposing Neo to books, music, movement and talking to him because it is so important for his social and intellectual development!
Only advice for more than one home zone. Don’t get to committed to a schooling or life process. If things aren’t working out give yourself the grace to change. We beat ourselves up over commitment of life (schooling, working, travel) but it is okay to change and do what you feel is right in your heart and soul. Follow your happiness and give yourself grace for change and failure. It is okay. Life will be exactly what it was meant to be. ❤
Share more of the UK! So many cool castles and beaches! Loved exploring Devon and Cornwall over twenty years ago! Scones, clotted cream! The rainbows, cows, sheep….you don’t have to leave to do more travel blogs! You could also rate B&Bs…so many possibilities! And such a safe and family friendly place to be! Congrats to you both and baby Neo!
Louis my son has been reading older books to my granddaughter since she was born. He would do skin on skin time with her and read her the story. Next week she will be 1 year old and she now goes and gets a book, brings it to her daddy and they sit and bond while he reads her the book. So, keep right on reading those older story books to Neo because I think they absorb way more than we think they can. 😊
a child really does open your eyes to what is amazing and beautiful as if you also are seeing for the first time and I love that you both are so in tune to Neo and each other that everyone thrives and receives the love and comfort they need❤
Wow! Neo has really grown and is so cute. I just love that we are allowed to watch his progress in the world. I adore his giggle. There is nothing better than a child's laughter. You are such loving and supportive partners and that love is now transferred to Neo.
Neo is an absolutely beautiful boy…and those eyes!!! Soak in every moment of this time in your/his life, and I’ll keep all my fingers and toes crossed that your visa comes through quickly.
I am forever grateful I have a sibling....I think it gives both children an instant friend, someone to do childhood with, someone who knows everything about you and can help go through the motions of life's ups and downs....in our case, dealing with the loss of a parent - I'm so so so grateful to have each other to help us both through that. It grounds you. I think 2 is perfect for many reasons...but especially if you're traveling. It's not overwhelming with an equal kid to parent ratio but most importantly...the amount of attention and what you can do as a family of 4 vs. a larger family is amplified in my opinion...and I speak from experience as a step mom to 5 and bio mom to 1 with a big age gap. When we had most of the kids living with us...family trips...eating out...traveling was so much more expensive and quite honestly, a lot of work...but as they got older and left and we had just 2....the experiences we could offer then just skyrocketed...we could afford it, we could spend quality time with each kid and make the most of those experiences for them. Just everyday life at home was different...more present and able to be more accessible to each child. Just my experience and some food for thought. You'll know what's right for you when the times comes to make that decision. I'm sure there are tons of great stories of big families too that are just as wonderful with just as many blessings. Follow your heart, always.
We had the same thing happen but paid for the premium service and got it processed in 1 week instead of 6-8 months. Keep your heads up, it can come a lot faster than you expect!
My kids r 26 and 28 and I remember their first of everything,,,,,but for me. I love you guys as new parents, your wonderment , your enthusiasms,,,it brings it all back for me,,,,,,,,u guys are soooooo amazed I love it,,,,,,,hope u keep the videos coming
My parents travelled when my brother and I were small, due to my dads job we were in America, Korea, Australia, and we lived in South Africa where we had family. We settled in the UK in 2003 for primary school and secondary school. I started school in Korea so it’s definitely possible and I have some great memories! Living in SA with family was magical! Just go with the flow he will love it and look back on it with joy, I know I do! And love to travel now because of it!
Campervan it around the UK, find some hidden gems, travelling dosent have to involve a boat or a plane.....Scotland, Yorkshire lots of beautiful places here x
Me and my hubby met here in Spain, only came for a season but still here 40yrs later😉 Our son was born here, hes 28 now and my only stipulation to my hubby (who was thinking of working in another part of Spain) was make his mind up before our son got to school age, because once he got into school, he stays put until school yrs end. Only because we got to know alot of people who moved over to Spain with children, then they decided it wasnt for them, then they came back, so on and so on and the only ones who hurt the most and found it very very difficult to fit in were their children😔 Only thing children need is love and a routine, I was an old fashioned mum, day times I would meet with friends but by tea time home, bath n bed (Thats just my way, but it worked) Plus because were both English we stuck with English at home, tv, books etc and he then could change from English at home to Spanish at school. We werent sure if it was the right thing we were doing, but once our Son got into university he said it was the best thing we could have done for him, because of the reading writing and speaking both languages seperately, children are sponges and pick up so much when young and knowing different languages is truly the best gift you can give Neo, follow your hearts🥰 xxx
There is nothing I love more than watching incredible parents raising their children so beautifully. I've been watching The Nomadic Movement raise little Sadie and it is such a delight, and now you two with your darling Neo. As a psychotherapist encouraging you, and as research shows, spacing your little ones at least 3 years apart, more if possible, is so beneficial to their psychological development. Probably you already know that but putting it out there just in case, ;- ) Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful family times on youtube.
@noornoornoor23 I'm in the middle of a huge project right now and the answer to that is quite lengthy. I will try to get back to you just as soon as I can but it may awhile.
There's so much in the UK that you could show us - what about Wells, Ely, Devon and Cornwall (Glastonbry) and, if they'll let you go, Jersey (Gerald Durrell's zoo) and Guernsey!
You two are so funny! I love that you show all of the goofy songs and sounds that I think most of us do with babies. 2nd - Maya Wrap. It took me a little while to get used to using it but it was the best help for me when my 2nd child was born because it allows you to hold children at a much older age range and uses your hip or back to leverage the weight to make it work. Lastly, I almost strangled my lactation specialists with my first child. Then I had a friend that told me to give it at least 3 weeks with pain involved. Once I had realistic expectations it was a lot more bearable. My second child was so much easier to nurse. Neo is adorable!
Positive vibes from Canada. I know six months sounds like a long time when you had a plan, but take it from a mom, you will look back as Neo grows up and you will think that time was just a blink in the big picture of your lives. ❤ Oh, and that is one cute baby!!
I've been crying a melancholy cry throughout this video. Such a beautiful time of life, such a beautiful baby! I can relate to the joy of hearing the first laugh, and how you fall in love even more with your mate through the love of your children, loving breast feeding... all of it! My daughters are 27 and 30 now; but your video brings back those old memories and I'm so very happy for your sweet family. Sending all my love.
Super happy for you all and this is definitely a different journey! I used to live vicariously through you and others and must confess to watching less these days because I have done this part! Please do not question who is and is not watching... live your life and know that for some (like me) if they are not consistently tuning in it isn't about not caring.
I went to the Van Gogh exhibition also . Neo would have loved the moving pictures along the wall . I loved it myself . He is getting so big and cute . You both are doing the best as parents . No book is going to tell you how to raise your child because each are unique but they may guide you a little .
So amazing watching your children grow, Neo is so adorable! I am a mom of 2 - 13 yr old girl, 9 yr old boy, and its the best purpose in my life- being their mom. Congratulations on your growing family!
My son is 25!! One of my greatest gifts in life!! My next greatest gift will be arriving October 22nd 2023!! I can't wait to meet my very first grandson!!❤🇨🇦❤🇨🇦❤
As far as traveling with school age children - we started off with our oldest in public school at our main home base but within 2 years realized that was not a friendly situation to wanting to travel. We eventually moved to homeschooling as it allowed us the greatest freedom and cater to our childrens strengths and interests. Would never look back now!
Just to help reassure you (hopefully), I'm an Australian living in the UK on a spouse visa (previously here on a Youth Visa prior to that, so applied for the spouse visa in country, like you), also told it would be months of waiting. The first time I applied it only took 4 weeks to get approval, and 2.5 years later at my renewal it took just over a week! So sending you guys speedy vibes of love and hoping you don't have to wait too long either Raya ❤
I feel for you with the visa! I couldn’t leave the US for nearly 2 years waiting for my residency. It was so hard to go from travelling loads to feeling stuck. Then back in 2021 as well not being able to take my baby to meet my family in the UK for so long when the borders were closed was so sad. But when you look back it just feels like a small moment of time, even though it was so hard at the time.
Oh, the sweet sound of those first giggles will be something that you NEVER forget! My kids are 19, 18, & 9 and I can vividly remember their very first cries and the first time they lauhed with their whole bodies. Best sounds EVER ❤
Neo is so cute and its lovely catching up with how he is growing. The Van Gogh exhibtion was here in NZ a couple of years aho, it was amazing, eould love to see it again
I started watching Louie at first and it was magical when he met Raya. You didn't know it,, but she was perfect for you Louie. She is a lovely woman, wife and now mom. Love you guys.
Louie and Raya, you are Both doing such an amazing job at being Parents! You can see how much Neo is THRIVING ... He is So aware of his surroundings at such a young age and that is incredible ❤ Raya, I am so proud of you for not giving up on the breastfeeding. Unfortunately I couldn't do it but look at All the wonderful, Healing, nutrition Neo is getting from his mother's milk. He is doing amazing and such a healthy little boy 🥰 Well Done Raya❤ And Louie you are such an amazing father to Neo, I love how you and Raya are equal partner's and share the responsibilities with raising Neo... Bathing, reading, singing, rocking him to sleep... Well Done Louie, I hope more men follow in your footsteps of what a wonderful,hands on father you are... I'm so incredibly happy for your family, what a Beautiful Blessing a child is❤
A giggle is music to the ears and melts the Heart He is so adorable and this stage is the best when they’re discovering new things is so damn cute enjoy every single minute. Neo Earth is a beautiful name!! Do some UK travel. love from California. 🐬💜🤗😎🫶🇺🇸
With the magic of seeing the world through his eyes also comes the fear. My first rolled over at 4 months and walked at 10 months. With his first step came my seeing everything around him that he could trip over. It's the same with everything. He can pick out a book and stretch up trying to get that book that is just out of reach, so he climbs it....make sure it and his dresser are bolted to the wall. So you grow secure at home. You move locks on the doors out of his reach. You put a lock on the toilet....all kids are head heavy. All the precautions you take are at home. Not so much elsewhere. You can do it, just take care!
My cheeks are achingly sore from smiling so much through this video! I've watched you when you both had seperate channels and didn't know if you wanted or needed a relationship! (Although I just knew you two were meant for each other after seeing you both together! Something truly felt so right!) Seeing you both right now, years, tears and joy later, it's awesome! You seem closer than ever! The biggest smiles came for Neo! He's beautiful, growing so fast and seems so curious! Love your sweet little family you've created! Always sending lots of love and hugs and hope and peace and prayers ❤😊❤
I also had difficulty with breast feeding. It takes your body a few days, but once it started....some of my best memories of Eric as a baby! It lasted 8 1/2 months, but I was teaching full time. Good luck!
Neo is so cute!! Sadly that restriction of travel for anyone applying for permanent residency is very common in most western countries. I went through that process for 2 years - thats how long the Canadian govt took to process MY application for PR status in Canada. It does end eventually, but in the meantime, stay positive and save your pennies so that when you are able to travel, you will appreciate the freedom to travel so much more.
I am 21 weeks with our rainbow baby. She is due this December ❤ I so appreciate vlogs from new parents because I feel there's a lot I can learn. Especially from you guys since my two dreams in life are being a mom and traveling the world. Being able to do both would be incredibly fulfilling. I'm looking forward to your future videos! ❤
Also, as a breast feeding mama 19 months down. KUDOOOS, to you raya!!! Breast feeding is hard, it is sooo hard at the start. You persevered, you are incredible!!! People don’t often give enough credit. Big big big big respect and credit to you mama!!
I have watched you guys for many years and you guys have shown a great exponential growth and maturity and wisdom in the few month's as parents. I can tell you have studied a lot on childbirth and development and I know you are the still learning even more but the things you are doing I wish I knew about when my son was a baby he is now 17.. You're a very passionate and articulate I am not a prophet but I believe you are going to be able to help future mothers and parents I am so excited for you guys.. I know you miss your old life but your new life is going to be just as incredible and I am blessed by watching you guys Louie is such a great dad as well so loving kind and compassionate way to go so very proud of you
I love the idea of summering in the UK! Our daughter goes to school in Portugal and we can travel and spend the summer wherever we want! We’ve been going back and forth on transatlantic cruises as we finish moving. She loves the travel. 7 years old now. So excited for you guys!
You should invest in a Europe based van, an ultimate van with more space and time share with Eamon and Bec and maybe Kara and nate. Between you it would get a decent amount of use. Maybe Louis and Eamon could convert it for the fun for Louis channel. It could even be electric, or even a narrowboat.
Love your love for each other and for Neo, truly beautiful how it’s grown so much more deeply because of him. And so great seeing miss Cali as happy as ever! I did a double take when I saw her venturing off and doing her own thing at the 9:54 mark 😅
Breastfeeding is so tough. It is advertised as the natural way to feed a baby. But the truth is that it is very hard. I'm so glad it has turned a corner for you guys! My first kid was hard work for the entire 9 months we made it. She had formula supplemented throughout because I never made enough for her. My second kid was easy from day one and we made it about 1.5 years with no formula needed. I think it was so important for you to show the struggle so that other new moms don't feel like a failure if they struggle for the "natural" way to feed a kiddo. Sorry to hear the travel woes but you guys will come up with something great to fill the time! And even if you don't have adventures outside of the UK, just keep recording those baby laughs and conversations!! Omg they are the best! ❤
You can do IB international schools, with those you can jump in and out more than normal schools. At our school there is a family that lives 6 months a year here and 6 months in Malaysia.
Home school Neo then you can keep travelling. You are great parents, keep doing what you’re doing. Reading to small babies and keeping that up as they grow is the best way to teach reading. Talking to him about all that he’s seeing and doing is another crucial element for development. You’d be amazed how many babies don’t have this. It’s lovely to see you with Neo! God bless you all. Definitely keep travelling in the Uk whilst you can’t go further. Camper van trips around the British isles, train trips, baby friendly holidays. All of these things will be very watchable and helpful for others with babies who want to travel. We are hoping to travel the UK with our baby twins in a camper van. It’s also the best education for a little one! Of course they still need their routine which is why we’re doing the travel in a camper so they can keep some things routine. Babies need that to instill a sense of security. None of us want insecure clingy babies. Enjoy your time with Neo! They aren’t small for long ❤️
Perhaps Neo’s lion should be named Leo? May be too obvious a choice, but sometimes you can’t beat a good rhyme.🦁 So enjoy watching him grow and enjoying all of those first experiences with you!
I breast fed my four kids exclusively for 2-3 years. I feel so blessed that I was able to do it and they all thrived ❤ you guys are doing great and Neo is a beautiful boy
You are such a beautiful loving family! Neo is so precious, his eyes so full of wonder. Loved the song Louis was singing to him, so sweet❤ Sending love and light from Pennsylvania ❣
No advice you guys are doing awesome. My son was born in 1973, and daughter 1974. We were not planning to have a third but were happy our 3rd another daughter was born in 1979. And to this day they are still close to each. Though not living in the same cities.
I cannot with his little eyebrows...sooooo cute!! You guys are wonderful parents! :) My husband and I have 4 kids. We are Americans. The past five years we have lived in Cambodia with our children. Traveling back and forth every year or so. We do NGO work. Our kids have developed amazingly. You will find that as well. Children are very adaptable and as always do very well in a loving home as you know Im sure :) Blessings~
So fun watching your joy filled interactions with Neo. The last 16 months I’ve been delighting in watching/helping my sweet granddaughter. I know the heart melting feeling when your sweet baby smiles or laughs at you. Your heart feels as if it could burst.
Little Neo is such a cutie 🥰 bless him. I hope they can get it sorted quicker and you can travel!!! I know how much travelling you love to do. Lots of love to you all xxx
I feel like the only advice I’d give is enjoy his current stage they grow up so fast. You’re talking about traveling and schooling and what’s to come HOWEVER now that my kids are moving onto middle school I miss the sleepless nights. The exhaustion. The hardest time. Living thru it I thought how could you miss this? I could cry. Everything you’re living thru today soak it up and love the current stage.
I know it’s disappointing to be unable to travel, but I’m sure your subscribers would love seeing places in the UK. Maybe go fell-walking in the Lake District and visit Castlerigg Stone Circle. I was there on a misty December where my friend and I and a few sheep were the only people in the stone circle. It was magical. ❤ I would be interested in some more vegan restaurant reviews in the UK, as well as what you cook at home. If you can travel to Ireland you could go visit the Happy Pear. That would be such fun to watch! Seeing your other RU-vid friends visit would also be good content. Can you find more festivals, take Neo to some farmers markets? I would enjoy the local color. Would be fun to see you visit an eco village, too. There is so much you could do in the UK that we would love to watch!
The education system for costa rica. School Year Expats from Europe and North America may be a bit surprised to learn what the school year in like in Costa Rica. The academic year in this country runs from February to November/December. The first semester starts in the second or third week of February. This semester ends in the third or fourth week of June. The second semester picks up in the third or fourth week of July and goes until the end of November/beginning of December. Private schools will often finish one or two weeks earlier than public schools
i started baby swimming with my baby at 10 months now that he is 13 months he loves the water not scared at all. and puts his face in it. really recommend it
My partner is English and I’m the only person speaking Bulgarian to our child. It’s hard work when your child says “speak English”! But UK has some great Bulgarian Sunday schools which I hope would help with that! 💗
hi guys. we have 3 kids. our oldest is 5, we traveled with him a lot in his first year--domestic US trips and 1 international trip. our 2nd was a covid baby so just a few road trips with her. and now our third is 1.5 yrs old and we are back into domestic and international travel. as new babies come, the older ones grow and mature, so it doesn't get exponentially worse--in fact, it gets a little easier. also! u guys should consider home schooling. we are starting next fall with first grade, and we hope to be able to travel year round and we can teach wherever we are. plus, how cool to be able to teach ur kids while on the road--study old faithul/yellowstone while being there! anyways, cheers! love the content.
I’m a nanny and love the Montessori way of teaching and playing. Hence loving Lovevery! That ball is also a favorite of most kids I have taken care of through the years. You should check into Montessori teaching since it’s minimalistic and a lot of wood is used for the toys. Plus no batteries needed!
My little boy loved the hair dryer. He had bad collic when very young and we bought a portable white noise maker to take everywhere for him. We are on our 3rd one now and he's 8.
