About Mia

The unintended expat blogger behind Pilot Grove Canvas

Mia Schmidt - Founder of Pilot Grove Canvas Photo: Pilot Grove Canvas

Hey, I'm Mia

I am a project manager and a parent, living as an expat in Berlin, Germany.

A few years ago, I relocated here with my family. What began as a temporary assignment gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.

How It Started

Moving to Germany wasn't in the long-range plan. As with many expatriate relocations, it started as a job opportunity and soon grew into something far larger.

The initial months were challenging — new processes, new routines, new expectations. Daily tasks seemed more intricate than expected.

City skyline in Berlin, Germany
Credit: Pilot Grove Canvas

The Adjustment Period

There was culture shock, doubt, and plenty of hands-on learning. Gradually, routines took shape. We found spots that suited us, connected with other families, and began creating something that felt steady.

Why I Built Pilot Grove Canvas

Most information online fell into corporate relocation guidance or shallow tourism material. What was lacking was an honest, everyday family viewpoint.

This site exists to bridge that gap — practical guidance grounded in real-life experience in Germany.

What This Site Stands For (And What It Doesn't)

This site is:

  • Hands-on experience from living in Germany
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated when something meaningful changes

This site isn't:

  • An official tourism authority resource
  • A platform for sponsored reviews
  • An ordinary travel blog

Looking Forward

Our time in Germany continues, and so does the learning process. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll keep documenting what we discover.

If you have questions about family life in Berlin or anywhere in Germany, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Best regards,

Mia

Berlin, Germany