Ep 3. The Van De Grifts leave Hawaii for their Soldatna, Alaska Paradise

The Van De Grift family is leaving the sunny beaches of Hawaii for the snowy paradise of Soldotna, Alaska. This family of five is searching for a home that can accommodate their active lifestyles while also providing the peaceful, natural environment they crave.

Their real estate agent, Adrienne Wilber, takes them to a few potential properties, but nothing seems quite right. They tour a cabin that's too small, a home on a busy road, and a house that's too far from the river. The family begins to worry that they won't find their dream home in their budget.

As they continue their search, the Van De Grifts begin to get a sense of the tight-knit community that surrounds them. They attend a local sledding event and meet other families who share their love for the outdoors. They also explore the nearby Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, marveling at the beauty of the landscape and the wildlife.

Finally, they find a property that has everything they are looking for: a spacious house with plenty of room for their kids to play, close proximity to the Kenai River, and even a heated garage to store all of their outdoor gear. Adrienne works hard to negotiate a deal that's within their budget, and the family makes an offer.

As they wait for the loan to come through and the closing to happen, the Van De Grifts start to get to know their new community. They attend a winter festival and learn about the local cuisine, including dishes made with salmon and moose meat. They also meet some of their new neighbors, who offer to help with any necessary repairs or maintenance on their property.

Finally, the day arrives for the family to move in. They excitedly unpack their boxes and start to make the house feel like home. They hang up photos of their days in Hawaii, but also begin to add some new decor, including a tapestry of a moose and a painting of the Northern Lights.

As they settle into their new life, the Van De Grifts reflect on the journey that brought them to this point. They are grateful for the support of their new community, and can't wait to explore all that Alaska has to offer. They feel confident that they made the right decision, and are excited to see what adventures lie ahead.