back again

It was the furthest I've ever driven on my own, 5hrs along the highway, and I really enjoyed it. Mr You stayed at home over the weekend to get through his ever mounting pile of work, while I went to a small town up north to help my mum and step-dad unpack their stuff after moving house. So I drove up on my own, car stereo stacked with CD's, I took it easy, a road trip of my own. Pulling over to get out and stretch every so often when I came across a pretty little town or river clearing, stretching my arms wide through the endless sky and sucking in some of the ample fresh air.

Mum has moved to a new town, a seachange, and I think they'll love it. It's the nicest house they've ever lived in (in my opinion), on a little hill in a quiet tree-filled suburb, a few minutes walk over the ridge to the beach. It'll be quite a big lifestyle change for them both. It was interesting being there with them as they reassured themselves that they'd made the right decision, talking through the pros and cons, airing their concerns, and once again reassuring themselves.

It was also helpful to me at this time, considering that we too are in the process of packing up all our stuff and getting ready to move house. Thinking through options. I feel like I had a bit of emotional preparation, but also picked up some practical tips: good ways to pack things, reinforce boxes, and that my mum certainly doesn't need any more towels, wine glasses or decorative candles. (I think I managed to convice her to start actually using some of the candles she has).

Anyway, it was good. Good to get away, good to step out of my own house mess, good to look at things from an outsiders perspective. So now I'm back agian, but this time feeling slightly refreshed.