What a difference two years makes.
It’s been two years since we travelled on our first family road trip to SA. Two years since we played on beautiful beaches and ran up and down glorious sand dunes.
Two years since Christmas was spent cool and children rugged up, instead of hot and muggy.
A lot can happen in two years.
Since we last did this trip, all our children have grown up just that little bit, making the whole process more enjoyable and memorable.
The last time we were here in Coffin Bay, the bushes at the shack were smaller, the sun seemed harsher, and there were a few less houses.
Two years ago, we left on our return trip to pause at a crossroads; metaphorical and literal. As we filled up the car at Port Augusta, we looked at all the road signs and saw our options: Adelaide, Perth, or home to Darwin.
We took the last but only because we had to.
Life is a funny thing sometimes.
We had no idea what was in store for us, and we were so tired of struggling. Darwin is hot, and expensive and the housing market is impossible. There are no nice beaches that you can ride a jet ski at, and you can’t buy Farmers Union Feel Good Chocolate Milk.
Two years ago, it had nothing going for it at all as far as we we’re concerned.
So we tried to move.
Countless times.
Boatman applied for jobs to be told ‘yes! We’ll call you soon!’ And then overnight positions were made redundant, or the hiring officer left the company.
It was completely ridiculous how much things couldn’t go right.
Eventually, we gave up trying. The doors were not opening for us, and it wasn’t meant to be. We settled back into Territorian life, conceding defeat, and tried to make the best of it.
I don’t think I would have realised how much, and how little, has changed since then, if we hadn’t taken this drive.
On the surface our lives are the same. We live in the same house, in the same city, go to the same church, and the kids still attend the same school. We have the same friends and order takeaway from the same places. I still shop at the same Coles.
The only really noticeable difference is Boatman’s change of job and career, and our attitude.
Two years ago, we were searching and desperate for change, but not for all the reasons. we thought (cheaper housing, nice beaches etc.) What we really wanted was purpose. To know that we were doing what we should be, and be enjoying our lives.
Turns out you don’t always have to move to the opposite end of the country to find that.
Sometimes you just have to be open to the possibilities and opportunities staring you right in the face.
Where we are, and where I have always been, is exactly where we’re supposed to be.
Looking forward to 2013, I’m feeling fairly contemplative. Looking at how far we have come, and still have to go. Renewing focus and choosing to get rid of the negative and anything that’s going to hold me back.
Two years ago, I sat on the same balcony I’m sitting on now as I write this, thinking of the future, and what it could hold. What changes were on the horizon.
Now I sit here, thinking similar thoughts, but instead of trying to make big changes, I’m set on making small ones. Step by step, moment by moment, moving forward and living every day of my life with purpose and passion.
And I can’t wait.
Wonderful. It’s so great to feel settled and have that sense of purpose. Knowing you’re in the right place and pointing your lives in the right direction is half the battle. Happy new year Jess
Francesca recently posted..Santa reads my blog!
Happy New Year to you two Francesca.
It’s definitely been a battle to get here, but gee it feels great now
Jess I think this is one of my favorite blogs you have written. I could not have worded it better myself. If someone had told me two years ago I would be where I am now. That my life would be here. I would have thought they had lost their mind.
Two years ago I was still lost in devastating despair and depression over my son being killed. I was serious ill at the time and at that time my two small boys had just been officially diagnosed with autism.
But we have made it. A day at a time. A step at a time. No grand plans. But we have made it. With some true friends by my side and the amazing people I met in the blogging world I have clawed my way back into life. Back into living and not merely existing. What an amazing two years it has been here too Jess. For both of us I think. I hope 2013 brings you everything your hoping and so much more.
Mum Talks Autism recently posted..Human kindness and true love.
You’ve had such a huge amount happen to you in such a short time, I find it amazing that you’re still standing. And you’re attitude is such an inspiration to me.
Here’s to 2013 being the best year yet.
Jess recently posted..When City Girls go Bush
I think that one of the best bits about blogging is that you can skip back in time and easily see where you are or were and how you got there. Thanks for sharing your journey and thoughts with us, I can’t wait to see where you go from here. Fairy wishes and butterfly kisses lovely
Rhianna recently posted..Life without connection
Yep it really is good to actually remember what you thought and felt instead of what you think you did!
Jess recently posted..When City Girls go Bush
What a great approach. I’m not sure if I told you that I used to go to Darwin regularly. I wasn’t a fan when I first stayed there (Aug – Nov in 1999), but then I went to work in Dili in East Timor and Darwin was our official R & R locale.
I’d get so excited when I arrived at the airport – sometimes with only a weekend ahead of me. I had it all planned. Fish and chips and an entire bottle of champagne at this place at Cullen Bay, real grocery stores, movies and takeaway food. Darwin was heaven… in comparison!
Deb recently posted..You know you’re getting old when….
Yeah you have told me that.
Having been to Dili myself I know just how luxurious Darwin is in comparison!
Jess recently posted..When City Girls go Bush
Purpose and passion. A great way to live life
Leanne @ Deep Fried Fruit recently posted..Day 1184 – Word of the Year
That’s what I think