A New Beginning in the Forest: Moving from the Netherlands to Sweden
Are you dreaming of starting over in nature? In this short personal story I share how my husband, our dog, and I left the Netherlands to build a slower, more intentional life in the forests of Sweden. From making the decision, to adjusting to a new rhythm, this is our journey of reconnecting with the seasons and finding home in a different place.
Why We Chose to Leave the Netherlands
In the year 2024, my husband, our dog, and I were finally ready to take the step and move to Sweden.
All three of us were born in different parts of the Netherlands, but somehow we found each other. After dating for a year, my husband Jesse and I discovered we shared a common dream of living in Scandinavia. Sweden to be exact. After that, it felt like we had ignited a flame between us. We started working towards our goal of living in a little house in the forest.
Why We Chose a Life in Nature
We both had similar feelings about the Netherlands. It just wasn’t our place anymore. I had felt that way for a long time. Writing this, I wonder if it ever really was my place. There were so many things I could never quite get used to.
I used to make jokes about wanting to live in the forest. Saying things like, “If this gets any worse, I’ll just go live far away in the woods somewhere.” They say there is a bit of truth in every joke. And in my case, I think that’s very true. Deep down, I think I’ve always wanted to live in a little house in the forest.
Adjusting to Life in Sweden
We’ve been living here for almost a year now, and I still feel like I’m getting used to the idea that we actually did it. I’m still very happy with our choice, even though I miss my family and friends in the Netherlands. Giving up seeing them regularly has been one of the hardest parts. You miss big changes in their lives, and it’s hard to accept that.
But to make a dream like this come true, you have to be willing to make sacrifices. To live your own life and follow your own path takes courage and determination. I’m so glad I didn’t give up. And I’m grateful that I get to do this together with Jesse and Saga, our fluffy little wolf.
Finding Community and Connection
Connecting with other people who’ve also moved to Sweden has been really helpful. I definitely recommend it. They can relate to your process in ways that others can’t. I’ve come to see that a lot of like-minded people take this step. But also, connecting with local Swedish people is something I really recommend. The language can be a barrier, yes, but having a shared goal or hobby really helps to build those connections. Kind people exist everywhere. Sometimes they’re just waiting to be found, or maybe they’re looking for you.
Everyday Life in the Swedish Forest
Jesse and I worked hard for this life in Sweden. Over here, we can finally breathe. Sitting in the pine forest eating a sandwich. Taking our dog to the river. Watching the northern lights at night. So many beautiful moments already, and we just got here. It honestly feels like we’re living in a fairytale. A fairytale where I live with a prince and the big bad wolf. Only he’s cute and fluffy.
Living with the Seasons in Sweden
Now that spring is slowly arriving, I find myself outside collecting birch sap. The days are getting longer, and coltsfoot is popping up everywhere, those bright yellow flowers breaking through the brown of the forest floor. One of the first edible plants of the year. It feels like nature is quietly waking up, and with it, something inside me too. A new chapter has begun.
Don’t Give Up on Your Dream
It’s advice you hear a lot. Never give up on your dream. No matter how long it takes or how far it feels. But I believe it now more than ever. So take this as your sign. Go and do it. Whatever your dream may be.
