Elegant Maine Living with Shana Cook Mueller: A Maine Family Sabbatical Through Africa & Europe Part 2

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when two middle school girls leave behind their friends, sports teams, school routines, and familiar lives in Maine to spend nearly a year living in Africa and Europe?In this second half of Elise Kiely’s conversation with the Cook Mueller family, Jasmine and Sydney Mueller share their family sabbatical experience from their perspective.When their parents first announced the plan to leave Maine for nearly a year, neither daughter was enthusiastic. In fact, both wondered what they would miss—from friends and school traditions to sports, activities, and everyday routines. But over time, what began as uncertainty evolved into an experience that neither would trade.Jasmine and Sydney discuss:Their initial reactions to learning about the family sabbaticalLeaving friends, school, sports, and familiar routines behindAttending an international school in TanzaniaMaking friends from around the worldLearning and living in a new cultureFamily adventures throughout Tanzania, Cape Town, Switzerland, and EuropeHomeschooling while travelingThe challenges and rewards of spending so much time together as a familyWhat surprised them most about living abroadReturning home to Maine after a life-changing yearThis episode offers a rare glimpse into a family sabbatical through the eyes of children and explores how travel, cultural immersion, international education, and shared experiences can shape confidence, perspective, resilience, and lifelong memories.Whether you're considering a family sabbatical, worldschooling, homeschooling while traveling, living abroad with children, or simply looking for inspiration to step outside your family's comfort zone, this conversation is filled with practical insights and heartfelt reflections.Elegant Maine Living explores Maine’s homes, communities, and people—through the lens of lifestyle, values, and thoughtful living. I host conversations with leaders, creators, and advisors who help illuminate what it truly means to live well in Maine.Connect with Elise🌐 Website & Listings: EliseKiely.com 📸 Follow Elise on Social Media:Instagram: @elisekielyrealestateFacebook: Elise Kiely Real Estate LinkedIn: Elise Kiely Have Questions or Topic Suggestions, e-mail Elise at [email protected], share with a friend, and join Elise every other week to discover what makes Maine not just beautiful—but beautifully lived.Please remember this podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not create an attorney client or real estate advisor client relationship.  Please reach out to me directly if I can assist you in your real estate journey.