WHY WE MOVED TO AMERICAN SAMOA | AMSAMFAM LIVING ON A TINY ISLAND IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC

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  • čas přidán 13. 04. 2021
  • Why did you move to American Samoa?
    That's a question that we get ALL THE TIME!
    And while we don't mind answering it, we thought it was time to tell you in video form. From feeling stuck in the "American Dream", through a couple of moves, a few trips, and lots of adventure planning, our family took a huge leap across the ocean and moved to a tiny island in the South Pacific.
    Now, American Samoa is our home and we couldn't be happier!
    Plus, join us this Saturday, April 17, at 10 am Pago Pago time for a CZcams LIVE announcement and Q&A.
    TIME CONVERSION
    Sydney/Brisbane, Australia: Sunday, April 18, 7 am
    New Zealand: Sunday, April 18, 9 am
    Apia, Samoa: Sunday, April 18, 10 am
    Pago Pago, American Samoa: Saturday, April 17, 10 am
    Hawaii, USA: Saturday, April 17, 11 am
    West Coast, USA: Saturday, April 17, 2 pm
    Mountain Time, USA: Saturday, April 17, 3 pm
    Central Time, USA: Saturday, April 17, 4 pm
    East Coast, USA: Saturday, April 17, 5 pm
    Thank you again for coming along with us! Hope to see you LIVE, this Saturday (maybe Sunday for you).
    Tofa Soifua!
    If you'd like to support our channel, please consider pledging to our PATREON account, where you can pay $5, $10, or $25 per month, helping us keep these and other videos about our life and adventures in American Samoa coming each week.
    / amsamfam
    If you love our music, you can find it at EPIDEMIC SOUND. For access to all their copyright-free music, go to www.epidemicsound.com/referra...
    For more AmSamFam adventures, check out:
    WEBSITE: amsamfam.com/
    INSTAGRAM: / amsamfam
    FACEBOOK: / amsamfam

Komentáře • 658

  • @BigBoy74X
    @BigBoy74X Před 3 lety +176

    After hearing this. It only meant one thing. You guys were meant to be there. Welcome Home, you're Samoan in my book and i'm pretty sure the people of Samoa feels the same.

    • @samwright285
      @samwright285 Před 3 lety +15

      AGREE❤️❤️🙏🙏Such a privilege to have this beautiful family with us❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️Amsamfam

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +9

      Awww, thank you both so much!!! The love we have felt from the people here has been indescribable ❤️

    • @BigBoy74X
      @BigBoy74X Před 2 lety

      @Jordan Barclay Different strokes for different folks. Not everybody in the world are going to move to Florida like you did lol. Your question just sounds immature! These are grown folks conversations bro. Get in where you fit in!

    • @BigBoy74X
      @BigBoy74X Před 2 lety +3

      @Jordan Barclay I don't understand the moral of your question. You do know that AMERICAN SAMOA is part of the US right? what 3rd world nation are you talking about? "News Flash" what rock have you been sleeping under? As a proud American, It sad to tell you right now we are no longer the greatest country in the world. Once again, you sound very immature.

    • @raideruce3013
      @raideruce3013 Před rokem

      WTF!!!!!

  • @laskinov
    @laskinov Před 3 lety +79

    Awesome guys..Well done. As a Polynesian, born in Niue, brought up in New Zealand and currently living in Brisbane, Australia, I feel for you. I'm sick of living in false hope that everything will get better. I'm over it.
    I just want to find a tiny little spot either in NZ or Niue to spend the rest of my days, chilling out, living of the land, and not worry about materialistic wealth...

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +10

      Yes! You get it!
      We just bought a sailboat and have been looking around at our nearest neighbors. Niue doesn’t come up much in sailing communities as a common place to visit, but ever since moving here and seeing the islands around us, we’ve been intrigued. How cool to know you’re from there and wanting to go back. We definitely want to plan a trip there ❤️

    • @poavao6832
      @poavao6832 Před 3 lety +4

      Haia, liu hake ke tupuna he motu 🇳🇺🇳🇺🇳🇺

    • @sasharowen9584
      @sasharowen9584 Před 2 lety +2

      @@AmSamFam you definitely should!! at night, u could see how wonderful the stars are

    • @RonnieMcNutt_Mindblowing
      @RonnieMcNutt_Mindblowing Před 7 měsíci

      ​@@poavao6832Niue 😱😱👈😱👈😱👈😱🇺🇲🇺🇲👉🇺🇲😱

  • @whooshkaboomie
    @whooshkaboomie Před 3 lety +72

    The best thing about this move is that the kids will grow up with that Samoan culture & spirit in them. Strong, resilient, care free and appreciative of every small thing life offers. God Bless your Family.

    • @norrinradd8923
      @norrinradd8923 Před 2 lety +1

      Yea but the downside is the kids will have a fragile immune system........ When they do move back to the States their kids will be sick every week

    • @roachmojo
      @roachmojo Před 2 lety

      @@norrinradd8923 I moved to Samoa when I was 11. I moved back when I was 22. I was not sick at all! Of course...I did get a battery of vaccines in the Army a week after I left the island. :P

    • @norrinradd8923
      @norrinradd8923 Před 2 lety

      @@roachmojo Not everyone who goes to the islands are cared by the military......

    • @RonnieMcNutt_Mindblowing
      @RonnieMcNutt_Mindblowing Před 7 měsíci

      ​@@norrinradd8923Wdym?? Every citizen is cared by the military. Withoht the military im sure there would be 50 nuke detonations in large us cities the next 10 minutes

    • @norrinradd8923
      @norrinradd8923 Před 7 měsíci

      Is that what you think? you're a nut case lol oh America savior of the world lol@@RonnieMcNutt_Mindblowing

  • @stankugaru
    @stankugaru Před 3 lety +67

    Love your love of the Samoan people and culture. God bless you.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +1

      Thank you 💗💗

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      @SEAN PETAIA wouldn’t that be fun 🤩

  • @annarosesegi1655
    @annarosesegi1655 Před 3 lety +32

    Just like us samoans moving to the states for better opportunities, you both did the same! People are not always meant to be where they were born and raised but often wherever the heart is. You guys were looking everywhere but God had already planted love for Am. Samoa and the samoan culture in Nate’s heart a long time ago. Surely he meant for you guys to live a prosperous life here♥️ I would love to meet you guys someday. I mean, its a really small island, how could we not have met by now? 😂😂😂😂😂
    Love you AMSAMFAM!!!!!!

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +3

      That is such a beautiful way to explain it. Thank you ❤️❤️
      I’m sure we’re going to run into each other soon. Like you said, how have we not already 😂😂

  • @noelvaimili5844
    @noelvaimili5844 Před 3 lety +23

    Nate, it was Gods plan for you to move to American Samoa. See how things fell thru for you and your family. Look at you and your family now. You’re enjoying everything about American Samoa. Now you really have a taste of true Samoan culture. We enjoy watching every videos you make and you’re true blessing to the island. You’re a government employee 👏👏 I truly believe you’re valuable to the the DOC. God bless you, Melinda and kids.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      Thank you so much ❤️❤️

  • @deerasta44
    @deerasta44 Před 3 lety +15

    Everytime ur videos are out I want to watch it at home on the big screen than my cell phone...Your family is awesome..SAMOA needs to takecare of those who call Samoa home as well...Stay blessed...We love you all...

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      Thank you! You’re so sweet ❤️ I can only really speak for ourselves, but I think the people here are doing a pretty great job making us feel welcome.

  • @kathleenwerner-leap1681
    @kathleenwerner-leap1681 Před 3 lety +39

    10 years ago I moved from Idaho to work for the VA in Tafuna. I lived in Leone for two years. It was a wonderfully awful/awfully wonderful experience that I am really glad we did. My daughter was was in Junior High at that time. I moved in March from Pocatello to AS. I think being part of the LDS community would have been a huge benefit but we were not Mormon. I do remember spending a lot of time trying to learn Samoan from the missionaries most of whom were from Utah or Idaho. It’s unusual to see folks stay as long as you have. I can see that you love it and I love your videos because they remind me of the good adventures that we had as a family. 💞

    • @samwright285
      @samwright285 Před 3 lety +8

      Thank you for sharing your story🙏❤️

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +6

      Kathleen, not everything here is rainbows and unicorns, that’s for sure, but for something it just works for some people, us included. Having that instant connection through church was a huge help in the beginning and continues to be so as time goes on. Our friends really have turned into our family ❤️ We’re glad we can remind you of the good times. For us, it’s important to focus on the good, and let go of the things that we have no control over.

    • @melepaepule7294
      @melepaepule7294 Před 2 lety

      ,

  • @msdsez
    @msdsez Před 3 lety +26

    Prayers bring mysterious joyful surprises to life. God bless you all.

  • @kenfetuao3212
    @kenfetuao3212 Před 3 lety +7

    I was born in American Samoa in 1965 and our family moved to Hawaii in 1974 and I have never been back I now live in South Carolina obviously visiting American Samoa is a bucket list item for me

  • @bethwitrogen7091
    @bethwitrogen7091 Před 3 lety +20

    Such divine guidance!! You are exactly where you’re supposed to be. You surrendered to faith & love & so happy for you. Very inspirational & thanks for the story! Blessings to you & aiga 🦋🙏💛

  • @ahh-2-ahh
    @ahh-2-ahh Před 3 lety +12

    LDS!!!!! Yeahhhhh!!!!!! Wow, Nate.... your younger pics look just like your kids, especially your daughter! Beautiful! Why do I have a feeling there is more to this story that has to do with God and His mysterious ways to make this all happen in your favor at the exact right timing with Samoa and your family’s Intertwining .... I feel there’s a testimony in there!!! How great God is!!!! Thanks for sharing!!

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +3

      ❤️❤️❤️ You should see baby/childhood pictures of Nate and the kids side-by-side! #carboncopies
      I feel like God’s blessings are easier to see in hindsight and while, at the time, the timing felt fortuitous, looking back we have truly been able to see the hand of God throughout our journey through this life 💗

    • @norrinradd8923
      @norrinradd8923 Před 2 lety

      Yea the other family in Apia that youtubes are also LDS, they never mentioned it but when you name one of your kids Zarahemla that's a 'dead give a way'........

  • @lopiniosini4022
    @lopiniosini4022 Před 3 lety +11

    Love this story. You guys are a great..great addition to Am.Samoa. Love your spirits... you may not be Samoan by blood but your spirit n your love for this territory makes you samoan in heart... and that's all it matters. 😍

  • @wesleyioane5065
    @wesleyioane5065 Před 3 lety +6

    You guys are awesome
    America Samoa government
    Needs people like you Nate
    To make our island better

  • @haiilnaw
    @haiilnaw Před 3 lety +6

    I love you guys’ videos. I’m an American Samoan native from Leone & I’ve been away from home since 2017. I’m glad your beautiful family love our beautiful American Samoan islands. ❤️❤️

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +1

      Sounds like we traded places 😊 Hope you’re doing just as well in your new life too ❤️

  • @otaotaaumua8517
    @otaotaaumua8517 Před 3 lety +14

    Good to see your children enjoy themselves in American Samoa. You and your family have been to many places on island that I have not even been to. Blessings to you and your family. Thank you for sharing your videos.❤️🌺

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +1

      That’s definitely part of what we love so much- being able to get out and explore so much ❤️

  • @thomasrickit678
    @thomasrickit678 Před 3 lety +7

    I loved your guys story. Your love for American Samoa and commitment to having a great life for your family is outstanding. Wishing you all the best and God's blessings on your journey.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +1

      Thank you! We wish you all these things and more ❤️

  • @TipzKingianusi-rx7bp
    @TipzKingianusi-rx7bp Před 10 měsíci +1

    😭😭😭🥺 what a beautiful story this got me moved well done my USO much love and respect family 😭😭😭🤧

  • @jewelgaisoa1950
    @jewelgaisoa1950 Před 3 lety +21

    Love love love this story! And especially since you’ve documented everything from the very beginning. My favorite part, #debtfree ... thank you for sharing your life adventures with us, and also Melinda for the friendship. Truly an inspiring story ❤️❤️❤️

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks Jewel! Being debt free has been an amazing blessing in our lives and I don’t think I can ever go back to having that ball and chain of debt again. I’m grateful for your friendship too 💗

  • @championtafao684
    @championtafao684 Před 3 lety +20

    What an awesome story! This wasn't an accident surly God's plan came into play here. But now you're at home with us AmSamFam! Thank you for choosing to live with the Samoan people God bless! Tofa soifua!

  • @cissytuitasi4830
    @cissytuitasi4830 Před 3 lety +15

    Oh wow, I am from American Samoa but currently live in Nampa Idaho. I miss home but I love Idaho 😊. Love watching your journey in Samoa 🎈

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +1

      That’s so awesome!! We love Idaho too! We just love American Samoa more now 🤭😂
      But seriously, I (Melinda) spent basically my whole childhood in Nampa, right behind the Karcher Mall 💗

    • @cissytuitasi4830
      @cissytuitasi4830 Před 3 lety +2

      @@AmSamFam what a small world! We changed places 😊

    • @cissytuitasi4830
      @cissytuitasi4830 Před 3 lety +2

      I do live behind Karcher Mall, but there are a lot of homes there now. The Karcher Mall is almost nonexistent. We have bigger stores outside the mall. And they just built an Amazon here a few years ago. Lots of changes and close to 100,000 people in Nampa alone. My husband and I always watch your channel. I told him they have been to places on that rock I have never seen before.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +2

      @@cissytuitasi4830 very cool! Yeah, all that development started happening about the same time that my parents moved further out to the country 😄 Last time I looked on Google maps, our old house is still there, which is fun to see. That’s crazy that there’s an Amazon there now! And 100,000? Wow!!

  • @tongatau
    @tongatau Před 3 lety +5

    I’m Tongan/Fijian but I love y’all stories. This awesome!! Praying for the best for you two and your kids. Ofa atu

  • @abelw.6033
    @abelw.6033 Před 3 lety +14

    My family immigrated to the US from New Zealand back in the 60s. There was a significant migration of Polynesians that immigrated to the US during this time, especially to the Jackson County, Missouri area (which includes my family). There was some direction from David O. McKay to do so, and many Polynesian families made this trek to support what they believed was inspired direction for them. The family first left NZ to go to Hawaii (because of a job opportunity at BYU Hawaii), and then, later on, finished up by moving to Independence, Missouri.
    A lot of my extended family - whose surname is AhMu - still resides in Samoa (mostly Western Samoa). In fact, if you make it out to the LDS Temple in Apia that is the plot of land where that side of my family originates.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +2

      Fun story! I didn’t know there was such a large population of Polynesians in Missouri. 🤙

  • @mareelewis7639
    @mareelewis7639 Před 3 lety +10

    That is how we feel like we cannot breathe here and we have the beautiful caravan. Good on you both for trying and loving it all.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +2

      Thank you! I’m glad to know we aren’t the o my ones, sorry you’re feeling it too. Hopefully you can find a way out of it soon 💗

  • @carloluciano7041
    @carloluciano7041 Před 3 lety +6

    "It called the American dream because you have to be asleep too believe it" glad y'all found America samoa too call home God bless

  • @lavaesemai8600
    @lavaesemai8600 Před 3 lety +13

    Inspiring family story for all those with similar dreams and ideas. God blessings.

  • @clamant7
    @clamant7 Před 3 lety +9

    You guys are amazing! American Samoa is blessed with you as essential part of their community. 🙂

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +3

      Thank you 😊 We’re so grateful to be accepted into the community here ❤️

    • @pennieshivaie9343
      @pennieshivaie9343 Před 3 lety +1

      Most definitely!!!!!!!!!

  • @markfoster2624
    @markfoster2624 Před 3 lety +10

    thanks for sharing..I had always wondered how you guys ended up here & chose to stay...it's actually very inspiring and a great story for a tv movie some day! take care always!

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      Thank you! We’ve heard that suggestion a couple times now 😳 I don’t know that we’ll ever go that far, but thanks for the love ❤️❤️

  • @setrump2391
    @setrump2391 Před 3 lety +4

    You sir, deserves a chief title in Samoa!!! You are a hella of man than some of us Samoan man. You sir earned my respect 💯🙏. Your beautiful kids will make a change in Am. Samoa, that’s why God send you to Samoa. I see potential in loving children n a perfect parents to lead them. Well that’s my opinion , and may our Heavenly Father blessed your amazing beautiful family 🙏🙏🙏🙏 soifua ma ia manuia. From your aiga in Savannah Georgia!!! #AmSanFam#

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      Thank you, uso! This means a lot to me. We really appreciate your support!

  • @JL-hn6hi
    @JL-hn6hi Před 3 lety +11

    Best story ever. Thanks for sharing.

  • @spaceman5734
    @spaceman5734 Před 3 lety +6

    Hi guys. Laws of attraction and your inner being your guardian angels all come together to answer your vibrations for something new and fresh. Well done.....you have a beautiful family true wealth and happiness.

  • @sammyjays8270
    @sammyjays8270 Před 3 lety +3

    God works in a mysterious way. CONGRATS to you and your family💓🌺🌺🌺❤❤❤🌺🌺

  • @samwright285
    @samwright285 Před 3 lety +14

    Love my Amsam fam🙏❤️🤙

  • @anniem.227
    @anniem.227 Před 3 lety +15

    Well, I didn't choose the move but my parents did. We moved to Australia when I was almost 7. I think we might still be there if my mom didn't get homesick. So, making a move like yours is really in Nate's blood.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +2

      Yes! I (Melinda) am so glad it is 😁Thanks for instilling a curiosity and love of new places in Nate 💗 and for always supporting our crazy ideas!

    • @anniem.227
      @anniem.227 Před 3 lety +3

      @@AmSamFam Nate definitely got the bug from me. Could be why I don't see your ideas as crazy!!

  • @l.h.9796
    @l.h.9796 Před 3 lety +3

    WOW! Your family is an inspiration for American Samoa! Beautiful and well said! Thank you for sharing in good honesty! Thank you for CZcams to have open communication world wide to all in many good resources.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +1

      Yes, isn’t this technology amazing?! Thank you for your words of love 💗

  • @vivaotone7365
    @vivaotone7365 Před 3 lety +5

    This such an awesome video. A lot of people dream to just get up and move to a whole different world outside of the norm but to actually do it, it's amazing. I look forward to seeing more.

  • @geebs76
    @geebs76 Před 3 lety +1

    My wife and I sold everything we owned and moved from Texas to Costa Rica with our 2 pets and 4 suitcases. There are 100 reasons why we did it but the biggest ones were the climate, change in nature, and the changes in the culture in the U.S. I wanted to move to Guam but my wife did not so we ended up here. We had been here a couple times before. I grew up in Boston and as a teenager I always wanted to move someplace warm. We moved to Texas when I was 45 and I kicked myself for not doing it years earlier. I didn't want to regret not moving outside the CONUS.
    Thanks for taking the time to put this great video together. I loved hearing your story. All the best.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      Better late than never. Great story! Cant wait to watch your “why we moved to Costa Rica” video someday. Side note: we went to Costa Rica on our honeymoon, so it holds a special place in our hearts!

  • @emt0714
    @emt0714 Před 3 lety +2

    Awesome we live in AMSAM from 1986-89 my father worked at Bank of America Samoa. Your family is truly blessed. Be safe and thanks for posting and keep my memories alive of family and friends and adventure we had on American Samoa...

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      Very cool! I’m glad that we can help keep those memories fresh ❤️❤️

    • @jaimeecarson
      @jaimeecarson Před rokem +1

      Jerry and Carol? My last name is Carson. We lived in American Samoa as well from 84 to 87 I think? I have memories despite being so young. I think I remember you too. I hope to go back some day soon ❤

    • @emt0714
      @emt0714 Před rokem

      Yes I knew your family your mom Karen and your Dad Larry (sorry for your loss). What a small world. You didn’t step on frog did you ? That memory will stick with me.

    • @emt0714
      @emt0714 Před rokem

      My name is Brett Bentley

  • @exodusprime1935
    @exodusprime1935 Před 3 lety +1

    You guys are awesome! Thank you for sharing these videos. Take care and God bless 😊

  • @annarosesegi1655
    @annarosesegi1655 Před 3 lety +3

    Cant wait to see part 2 of this documentary 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

  • @tonysmario817
    @tonysmario817 Před 3 lety +1

    what an inspirational story. and how ironic...an 'economist'...who surely knows the moral verdict brought upon 'usury'', is led by the Spirit it would seem, to find his childhood dream...and then...one of the most beautiful sailboats is literally delivered to his door! what blessings...
    i have a similar story, too long to tell her, but ending in my childhood dream that seemed unattainable suddenly 'materializing' and leading to the blessings that i count as wonders to me, since i did nothing to encounter them of my own, but followed the spirit in me as it presented itself...and still live in awe of the unfolding that i embarked on in faith and have since left to the chance of that bold decision.
    it has so far led me to make two single handed deliveries of my own sailboats from san francisco to mexico, 10 years apart, when i never thought i could ever have my own canoe, let alone an ocean going sailboat!
    all i can say is, don't lose the faith that conquers fear...and, 'love your neighbor as yourself'. these are the only two things that matter in the end...and what is rewarded by the Master. all the things of the world, 'do not come from God, but from the world...and pass away'.
    look forward to seeing your family on that sailboat!

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      We’d love to hear the full story sometime!

  • @emilyeah
    @emilyeah Před 3 lety +1

    Great video! Thank you for sharing, this really inspired me. So many good points.

  • @shhhaua9426
    @shhhaua9426 Před 3 lety +1

    This was such a wonderful story thanks so much for sharing !!! ❤️

  • @skeptacleone
    @skeptacleone Před 3 lety +1

    Awesome stuff Guys, thanks for sharing 😊

  • @tkimble8165
    @tkimble8165 Před 3 lety +3

    From Tafuna here and I am very impressed more so inspired by you guys and your awesome story. Please enjoyed your leaving in America Samoa and stay cool. Love from Utah

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +2

      Very cool! Thank you. Enjoy your warmer weather while it lasts 😉

  • @robinbowles5731
    @robinbowles5731 Před 3 lety +3

    I've been contemplating retiring and for the last two years, I always come back to American Samoa. Your videos have sure been fascinating to me. I told a friend very recently who thinks I'm crazy with the desire to leave mainland USA, that I can hardly stand any longer what I term a new American aggression that is depressing and disheartening. Thanks so much for the voluminous information you have given me over the last year or so.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +1

      It is absolutely our pleasure! We love to hear from people who have seen our videos and heard our honest stories and still want to come. You get it!
      People ask us (including our kids sometimes) when we’re going to move back to the Mainland, but every time we turn on the news, it’s a good reminder of why we wanted to leave in the first place, just worse. We miss our family and friends and the places we loved, but the general atmosphere is not our ideal place for raising our kids or being able to live our lives on our terms.

    • @robinbowles5731
      @robinbowles5731 Před 3 lety +1

      @@AmSamFam A MEN!!!

  • @annemoefaauo7055
    @annemoefaauo7055 Před 3 lety +4

    Talofa lava. Fantastic story you guys. A similar thing happened to me many years ago. I was a single mum with 2 children. I felt restless. I always wanted to travel but being on my own with two small children, that did not seem likely. One thing I did have, was a university degree. I applied to do Volunteer Service Abroad. I needed permission from my kids dad, to take them overseas, which I got thankfully.
    I was selected for position as an English teacher in Arusha, Tanzania. We were so excited. However the position fell through at the last minute. We were all disappointed but then a teaching position in Samoa came up. I was reluctant to go for this position though, as my father is Samoan, and I was wanting my family to experience cultures and environments that were new to us. However, a house was provided for us in the school compound and airfares were paid for my children and myself. It felt like we had won the lottery. So I accepted the position.
    It was an amazing experience and something that my now adult children still talk about fondly. Even though my father is Samoan, I was born in New Zealand and English is my first language. I grew up in the city. Life in Samoa was vastly different from the world and culture my children knew. We also experienced two cyclones in Samoa and had to learn to live without electricity or running water for two months. I discovered strengths in myself that I did not know I had. The children learnt to carry water from the spring, to watch the flying foxes at night. Without power I read to them by candle light. We read all the CS Lewis books that way. It is still a fond memory for them.
    I noticed how much happier they were away from the stress of city life back home. They swam every day, chased pigs around the school compound. Our friends were the local Samoan people, as well as UN workers from all around the world, India, Ghana, France, Japan, Australia, America, Germany etc. Our Christmas dinners were potluck, with amazing international dishes from our guests.
    I'm so glad I responded to that restless feeling and didn't accept that just because I was a single mum with 2 kids we couldn't go on an adventure. As adults my children are now world travellers and I have also continued to enjoy travelling through Europe, Asia, and the Pacific. I feel the experience helped my children to grow into adults who embrace diversity and have adventurous spirits. They have also both chosen careers where they work with people from all cultures and backgrounds.
    This experience will be so wonderful for you as a family unit. A great adventure. ❤

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +1

      Wow! What an amazing story!! Thank you for taking the time to share it ❤️I’m guessing that when that opportunity in Tanzania fell through, it felt a little like the end of the world. I know I’ve felt that way when things haven’t worked out the way I’ve thought they should. Yet, looking back, I wouldn’t change anything, because everything that’s happened has brought us to where we are, living the way we are. Things happen, that we have no control over, but it’s what we make of it.
      I’m so glad your family got to have an unforgettable experience in Samoa ❤️❤️

  • @Teine_808
    @Teine_808 Před 3 lety

    Aawwww glad y’all enjoying and loving our island home..God Bless you guys🙏🏼🙏🏼♥️

  • @kerstinalvarez7054
    @kerstinalvarez7054 Před 3 lety +8

    Yes, Please! I would love to see a video about the logistics of moving to American Samoa. 😁

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +2

      We’re working on it right now 🤙

  • @venalosi3442
    @venalosi3442 Před 3 lety +1

    Love your story. Enjoy the Samoa hospitality.thanks for sharing

  • @theworldisnotenough5185
    @theworldisnotenough5185 Před 3 lety +2

    Thank you for sharing your story. Thank you and God bless.

  • @laitrumbull2295
    @laitrumbull2295 Před 3 lety +1

    Y’all story is awesome,i will faithfully following y’all,for more videos and story,love y’all all the way from San Antonio Texas!

  • @ofailalio
    @ofailalio Před 3 lety +3

    Love the content! Super proud of you guys! As a full samoan myself that was born and raised in American Samoa I'm glad I stumble upon this awesome channel.

  • @barneysene5258
    @barneysene5258 Před 3 lety +1

    Love this video. Inspiring. Great job Melinda and Nathan.

  • @hulkster699
    @hulkster699 Před 3 lety +1

    Awesome. Well we are more then happy to welcome u to our/your beautiful island.

  • @virginiamaelega8330
    @virginiamaelega8330 Před 3 lety

    Your story is very inspiring, thank you so much for sharing it💜

  • @Leon-hh1nj
    @Leon-hh1nj Před 3 lety +1

    Your family is humble and inspirational. Love all your videos and contents. Keep posting. Alofa atu.

  • @1964huerta
    @1964huerta Před 3 lety +1

    Thanks for sharing this was an awesome video!

  • @hamosoldier7940
    @hamosoldier7940 Před 3 lety +2

    Love the story guys. That’s awesome

  • @er8235
    @er8235 Před 3 lety +2

    Wow it was all meant to be. Just stumbled upon your channel, was in my reccomended. Going to binge all your other videos!

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      Awesome! Glad you enjoyed this one!

  • @Signkae1
    @Signkae1 Před 3 lety +2

    Cant wait to see more!

  • @atosboxing
    @atosboxing Před 3 lety +1

    that's awesome AmSamFam.. love watching your guys videos.

  • @wooback3376
    @wooback3376 Před 3 lety

    Awsome story thanks for sharing, wishing you guys all the best.

  • @penihelu5413
    @penihelu5413 Před 3 lety +1

    awesome story bro, I hope you guys enjoy your new journey of life. God bless and be safe

  • @wessitala497
    @wessitala497 Před 3 lety +5

    Amazing story! Just moved to Idaho last year! Moved out, we moved in. Look forward to the next phase of your family story!

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      Haha, That’s good. Idaho is an amazing place to live, we were just looking for something different. I’ve always said, if Idaho had an ocean and no winter, I would love to live there 😂 Thanks for your support ❤️

  • @uft642
    @uft642 Před 3 lety +2

    Amazing family story! Very adventurous. Blessings!

  • @Dapper_Dean
    @Dapper_Dean Před 3 lety +3

    Our family's best friends are Samoans. Good hearted people with good vibes.

  • @beatslive
    @beatslive Před 3 lety +1

    Hi AM SAM FAM Enjoying seeing your experiences in Samoa yep shes a beautiful place once she captures you she will never let you go.

  • @shirleyfuimaono7169
    @shirleyfuimaono7169 Před 3 lety +2

    Such an amazing inspiring story how everything fell into place. Love every second of this video. 🥰🥰🥰

  • @redr107
    @redr107 Před 3 lety +1

    I'm so inspired. Wish you guys the best of luck. Thank you for sharing your interesting lives

  • @stockie2580
    @stockie2580 Před 3 lety +1

    Awesome clip! All the bestest to you guys and your family, Alofaz from NSW Australia

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      Thank you ❤️ And the same to you and yours!

  • @Katz0710
    @Katz0710 Před 3 lety +6

    Love your story. Thank you for sharing. Tofa soifua!

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +2

      Fa’afetai Lava! ❤️

  • @genuinegentleman01
    @genuinegentleman01 Před 3 lety +4

    that is an amazing story, i now live in spokane, WA. and to hear that you made a big decision to move to am. samoa is simply amazing

  • @TamaraHudson
    @TamaraHudson Před rokem +1

    Loved this video. You guys are beautiful. I was a Peace Corps Volunteer in Madagascar 24 years ago, and ended up living the past 22 years in Malawi. Would love to visit Samoa one day. All the best to you! ☺

  • @kaltalukdarpresents-vlogsa3904

    Love your story, very inspiring 👍🏻

  • @xijinping4463
    @xijinping4463 Před 3 lety +1

    Amazing,god bless you both and the kids

  • @varmavlog2347
    @varmavlog2347 Před 3 lety +5

    You both are inspiring me👏👏💐

  • @kamapava
    @kamapava Před 3 lety +1

    This is my best video so far, very interesting topic, beautiful background, fits most of us Samoans. You live the way most of strive to overcome struggles except most of us move to the USA to pursue but you found it in AmSamoa, just awesome! God bless you as you adjust to your new home.

  • @lahainalady3580
    @lahainalady3580 Před 3 lety +2

    LOVE THIS because I left part of my own heart in American Samoa! Sailed in from Hawaii in 1974 and left in 1979. I am still homesick after all these years. So happy for you and your family.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      Sounds like you’ve lived quite the adventurous life. We’d love to hear more of your story!

  • @covarrubias2241
    @covarrubias2241 Před 3 lety +2

    I made the move down to American Samoa because I wanted to be in my daughters life. I chose her instead of my military career. So I finished my enlistment and my degree, leased out my house and sold everything else except for two duffle bags and a backpack. Moved down there not knowing what I was getting myself into. Was very very fortunate to get a job teaching at Voc Tech. Then got a better paying job at Bluesky. I absolutely LOVED living down there. Your stories resonate with me and sound VERY similar to the experiences I had. I just love it! My daughter actually says she knows you two and your kids from SPW. I could make a few videos myself about my adventures down there.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +1

      Haha, I’ll bet you could. That’s so awesome that you came out here to support your daughter. Sounds like you have a beautiful story too ❤️

  • @dmilomeredith
    @dmilomeredith Před 3 lety +1

    Hi family! Am. Samoa is blessed to have you there. You are great people and I'm glad you made the island your home. You are Samoan. Alofa Atu!!!

  • @afakasi_684
    @afakasi_684 Před 3 lety +3

    I’m excited you guys decided to stay here, I miss home and hopefully the border opens back. Love your story and the motivation it gives me, excited to watch why you guys decided to stay there. Much love and alofa atu AmSamFam!!!!

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      Very cool! We’re all keeping our fingers crossed for the borders to open 🤞

  • @deesotoa3676
    @deesotoa3676 Před 3 lety +1

    Always look foward to watching your videos.

  • @matauainafoumai8490
    @matauainafoumai8490 Před 3 lety +4

    Thanks for sharing your family story❤️

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety +1

      Our pleasure! Was that you that just became a patron? If so, thanks so much! If not, we’re still grateful for your support!

    • @matauainafoumai8490
      @matauainafoumai8490 Před 3 lety +1

      @@AmSamFam yes☺️ and you’re welcome!

  • @flyboyx8288
    @flyboyx8288 Před 3 lety +2

    Interesting story. Thank you for sharing. I lived there for a year between 1997 and 1998. I took a job with the now-defunct Samoa Air as a first officer. It was an amazing life experience for me as I am sure it is for your family as well. I will never forget the culture shock and the tremendous differences that hit you square in the face as you step off the airplane for the very first time. I'll never forget my "Samoan Dad" having the equivalent of a "birds and the bees" talk with me about what a fafafini is. I have some great memories from my time there. My fellow pilots and I spent most weekends at the Amanave beach with our girlfriends. Fishing, barbeques, swimming, and such usually filled our Saturdays and Sundays. The place was generally deserted and we always had the area to ourselves. never had to worry about the Sunday curfew since there were no sentries posted there. Feel free to contact me through CZcams if you wish. I'd love to offer advice on places to visit.

  • @faagalotiafala5598
    @faagalotiafala5598 Před 3 lety

    So happy for your family! Awesome story! Aloha!

  • @lilariki3183
    @lilariki3183 Před 2 lety +1

    Wow what a wonderful story inspiring us all

  • @josephwalter4385
    @josephwalter4385 Před 3 lety +1

    You're awesome n very thoughtful in all your dreams. You're at the right place. Well done.

  • @user-ok4ne6mc8g
    @user-ok4ne6mc8g Před 9 měsíci

    I’m so glad of what you two done for our Island, put it out for family who never been in Am Samoa.welcome home fam family.

  • @marctheislander5467
    @marctheislander5467 Před 3 lety

    Hey awesome story and video...
    Keep up the great job...
    Much love from Fiji

  • @tyronepereira-khan5163
    @tyronepereira-khan5163 Před 3 lety +3

    I really enjoyed watching this video and thank you for sharing your story 👍 I think it's fantastic what you have done 🙂

  • @gigrockband
    @gigrockband Před 3 lety +1

    Great video. Thank you.

  • @codsilentoneltd3431
    @codsilentoneltd3431 Před 3 lety +2

    Love your story and what you’ve both been through I would say you’ve been blessed with a comforting reward which only indicates and refers to the saying “ Good things are rewarded to those who have sacrificed so much and are humble and true to themselves. My family is from Upolu and I’ve always said that America has 53 states the 52 including American Samoa. I wrote a quote which can relate to you guys and everyone else who may be unsure as to which direction their lives should take which is “ it’s the denial and negativity of others that without a doubt create a possibility for those who dream and believe.” God bless you both and your beautiful family and I look forward to someday meeting you guys someday there and keep living your dream!! Much love and respect always and thank you for an extraordinary and amazing story and with all that took place in your lives I couldn’t think of a greater reward. Manuia Le aso! Fa’afetai lava tofa soifua.

  • @Retiredinruraljapanvlog
    @Retiredinruraljapanvlog Před 3 lety +2

    Great video! I left America when I was 18. I moved to the island of Saipan. Spent most of my life there. Raised a family- the kids are still there. When my husband retired we moved to his hometown in rural Japan. It’s only a 3.5 hour flight from Saipan so seeing the kids and grandkids isn’t too difficult. It’s a move I have never regretted! We have several friends from AM. Samoa in Saipan.

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      Very cool!! Sounds like you get your cake and you’re eating it too ❤️

  • @psamuelu111
    @psamuelu111 Před 2 lety

    Great story and wow, that’s a big leap of chance. Glad it worked out for you guys and hope to see you guys around the island. Military took me away from the rock (Am. Samoa) but I will be coming back next year for good. I can’t wait. Thanks again for the videos and keep them coming❤️🇦🇸

  • @fuitaotua7400
    @fuitaotua7400 Před 3 lety +1

    This is an amazing story!

  • @trile8
    @trile8 Před rokem

    Wonderful inspirational story thank you. Enjoyed your video

  • @saitalaalesana5931
    @saitalaalesana5931 Před 3 lety +2

    Love this video that is a beautiful story. I was born in the island but moved here in the states to further my education, and now living fulltime here in Phoenix AZ.

  • @imuapioneer
    @imuapioneer Před 3 lety +3

    Love the story of why the move. Looking forward to the story of why y'all stayed.

  • @elliannuhh8725
    @elliannuhh8725 Před 3 lety +1

    Glad to have you guys! :)

    • @AmSamFam
      @AmSamFam  Před 3 lety

      That’s just the nicest thing to hear. Thanks so much!