We’re now back in the big house with the big car and every day I think that we don’t need this. Kids are in school and we’re going on holiday only when school is out and although I know we are blessed and I should be happy, I feel trapped. It is comforting to read your view, so thank you for that. Happy travels.

HaHa, thanks Renee! A professional diagnosis. You know, I was talking to a schools’ psychologist yesterday, a fellow diving mum, she was talking of the pain endured by so many kids ( particularly boys) in schools. They just hate it and don’t want to do it. So two psychologists in one week. Bonus!

Your writing does not give off the feeling that you are depressed, sad or running away from anything. Not one bit! I even have a psychology degree to back up these assumptions 🙂

Your stories have encouraged me to rethink my attitudes towards schooling and travel. My son (three!) and I are off to the Gold Coast in ten days for a short adventure, and then to Brisbane to see family. We’ve also made plans to see Kakadu next year.

Hopefully our short trips give me the confidence to take a longer trip.

All the best, looking forward to the next instalment…

Thanks Karen. It goes like this…”they” have routine, school and a lifestyle, “they” think it’s the only way to do things. “they” will defend their choices to live that way, “they” can b**** off and live their own lives, we’ll live ours. Nobody here has any interest in routine, why would we? We have a heck of a lot more fun and opportunities than them. We think we have the best lifestyle on the planet, so no idea what they’re talking about and the kids’ education is too important to be trusted to the school system, we want more, not a one-size-fits-all mediocre half education. If “they” don’t like it, tough! You will find new friends along the way, ones that get it. Can you tell I’m feeling feisty this morning? I’m not in a very diplomatic mood sorry, bit fed up with negativity and idiots. You do your own thing, cherish your kids, give them as many opportunities as you possibly can, they’ll love you for it. I think I have the happiest kids on the planet, one is sitting here programming in Java, the other is reading, later we’ll go out, play, go to a museum, meet friends, eat whatever we feel like. They’re begging for another trip to Thailand, we’ll organise that soon. Dad will be home around 6pm, we’ll go out tonight and stay out as late as we like because nobody has to be up for school. This is living, not routine and schedules.