Harsh Reality of Life on the Road Tests Couple’s Love

B&B Owners Trade Hospitality for Separate Lives as Trucker’s Schedule Takes Toll

A challenging new career path has significantly altered the lives of **Astrid** and **Harmjan**, forcing them to adapt to weeks of separation as **Harmjan** works as an international tank carrier. This demanding schedule contrasts sharply with their previous life running a Bed & Breakfast.

From B&B Bliss to Bouncing Between Continents

Harmjan found that working in **Astrid’s** B&B wasn’t fulfilling his need for strenuous work. “I want to feel that I really did something. That you have to work hard,” he explained. **Astrid** agreed, noting the limited scope: “It is also too small for us two to really be busy.” **Harmjan**’s new role sees him away for three weeks at a time, returning home to Austria for just one.

“Getting used to,” **Astrid** calls it. “You are so used to being together. That was nice and pleasant. So if he is away for three weeks, it is difficult. But **Harmjan** is just working, he is less bothered by it.”

The long absences are taking their toll, with **Harmjan** admitting, “The work does not have the desired effect.” He sometimes experiences stress on the road, eager to return to **Astrid**. Their shared life has been reshaped by this professional shift.

Three Years On: A Period of Profound Change

Since their appearance on a dating show three years prior, their lives have undergone considerable upheaval. “From the moment I have registered, until the beginning of this year, it is such a chaos,” **Harmjan** reflected. He made the decision to emigrate to Austria for **Astrid**, a move that required adjusting to new responsibilities and a lack of personal time.

**Astrid** described the intense period following his arrival: “It was a huge amount that came to us in a short time. He went full in my life here, but that didn’t work.” Despite the challenges, **Astrid** remained committed, stating, “I chose to share my life with him, but not part of my life. Everything.”

Navigating Conflict and Finding Connection

The couple credits open communication and the ability to navigate disagreements as key to their relationship’s success. “**Be able to argue**,” **Astrid** laughed, emphasizing their capacity to express emotions. “We can put all the emotions together. Sometimes we react violently, but everything is negotiable and we feel very safe together.” **Harmjan** acknowledged the difficulty of conflict, saying, “Banging is not nice, but sometimes it also includes pain.”

Their initial connection was immediate. “**Harmjan** made a lot of time with me,” **Astrid** recalled. “**Harmjan** added, “I have found the love of my life.”

The B&B is Up for Grabs: A New Chapter Beckons

With the Bed & Breakfast now on the market, **Astrid** and **Harmjan** are seeking a new adventure and a more balanced lifestyle. **Astrid** is ready for greater tranquility after the initial intensity of relocating to Austria. “I still work in the B&B until it has been sold, as I have always done. I still enjoy doing that, because it is really my thing,” she stated.

The relentless pace of hospitality, where guests often arrive unexpectedly, has also contributed to their desire for change. “We need more free time,” they both agreed, looking forward to moments without the pressure of a schedule.

Future Uncertain as Couple Seeks Balance

The couple’s vision for the future remains somewhat divergent, with a desire for both peace and new challenges. “That sometimes clashes,” **Astrid** admitted, noting their differing ideas. They are currently awaiting the sale of the B&B before making definitive plans.

**Harmjan** expressed a need for continuous engagement: “We don’t like to sit still. We want to have to keep a challenge and balls high. But we also want peace and enjoy our free time.” **Astrid** suggested possibilities, including a larger hospitality venture or **Harmjan** continuing his driving career while she enjoys more leisure time.

Should they move away from gastronomy, a return to the Netherlands is a possibility. “**Harmjan** laughs, “I don’t have to remove **Astrid** from Austria.” Ultimately, they are united in their goal for a different life. “When the B&B is sold, we will take a break. Then I will look for a different job,” **Astrid** concluded. Their next steps involve either playing it safe or embracing another ambitious leap together.