We realize this goal isn't the "norm" and wanted to share some of our why's.
History: At 27 Jason walked away from society and backpacked all over the US with a good friend. It was the happiest and most freeing experience of his life. One winter visiting home though, he connected with an old friend in a new way (me!) luckily (I think so anyway) I was eager to travel too... We floundered around for about a year together, and on a visit to see Jason's first traveling partner and best friend in Ashland Oregon, we spontaneously signed a lease there and decided to try a different kind of life together, not a month later I was pregnant.
Jason always missed the road though, and after 5 years of living back in "normal" societal life, being a full time student and working part time, it slowly started to wear on him. With the 3rd baby on the way, a transfer degree in psychology within reach, Jason's spirit and passion was so worn down, and he settled into a depression. There were several times I tried to bring it to Jason's attention of the changes in him that were effecting our whole family. But we simply didn't know what to do. Finally one morning I couldn't take it anymore. We had to do something different. I posed the question "How long do you think we could live in a third world country off our tax return?" and our plan was born...
We started (ok Jason started) researching vehicles, we started gathering books, and gear. Our next big step is to get everyone passports! And learning Spanish....
We feel like this year will be amazing, and a once in a lifetime experience. While being extended enough in time to not only to feel like more than just a vacation, but to be able to experience other cultures in a real way. In a way I feel like I owe this to Jason.. not that I am not thrilled to be going too, but he has struggled, and worked hard for the last several years. Already I have seen such a light return to his life. We hope the trip will give our family the opportunity to bond in a way we haven't allowed ourselves time for in the past. - Miranda
I went from being able to do what ever I wanted to do each and every day, allowing the universe to push me around, living moment to moment, seeing how the day will unfold. Not knowing what your day will be like when you wake up, heck not even knowing if you will be in the same state by the end of the day. I loved it. I just love Miranda more. I decided to compromise and return to the main stream. Its been hard, but my wonderful family was and is well worth it! Thank you Miranda for seeing my passion dwindling and caring enough to make a change. -Jason
ReplyDeleteYou are a very lucky man, she's a wonderful woman! Congrats on the travel plans, we're all looking forward to hearing some wonderful stories! I personally look forward to hear about how homeschooling goes when you can actually show your kids the cool stuff out there.
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