The family initially moved from New York to the Bay Area after their first baby’s open heart surgery, seeking a laid-back, outdoorsy lifestyle. They wanted their kids to have a creative upbringing and for the father to be home for bedtime, while the mother aimed to return to her design career. However, they struggled to find a suitable home in the Bay Area, ending up in a distant suburb with long commutes and limited safe travel options for their kids. After eight years, they moved to Connecticut for better schools and a shorter commute, but found the same issues: lack of sidewalks and community engagement. Ultimately, they relocated to Switzerland, where they’ve lived for eight years and discovered a more supportive environment that allows their kids greater independence.