The Reality of Being Nomadic (Not the Instagram Version)

When we decided to become Digital Nomads, or at least try that life, we thought about how sweet it would be to leave the states, continue to make a living on our laptops. Explore new countries, have amazing experiences, get great weather and get a better work life balance.

We thought about all the logistics, what to pack, what to do with the kid, where to live, how to get there, how to get around while we were there. How to deal with the bugs and the language barriers. We pondered through just about every case scenario.

The reality we didn't think about was homesickness. And making homes and friends around the world would have its goodbyes. Our son, 'L' is now almost 4 and on this trip he has had moments pretty focused on the stuff and people in 'Merica'. One morning he awoke and said 'I dont want Nanny's bed (we are staying in my step mum's home)', 'I want my bed'. Followed shortly by, I don't want 'Nanny's TV ' 'I don't want Nanny's couch'. We had a chat about this new feeling he had, when you wish for all the things and people (and animals) back home. I let him know that we just live in this day, in this way, and home will always be there. But what I didn't tell him, and what I hoped was not true, is that we have introduced him to many 'homes' and he would always feel a little empty now he knew different worlds. The way I do, and have for over half of my life. What have we done?!?

We have been in Australia for half the allotted time (6 weeks out of 3 months) and have caught up with so many family members, we have settled into life in a coastal town, adjusted to working at 5am Tuesday to Saturday (to meet American west coast business hours). We have a nanny for the kid, and he has two days of a small day care experience literally two doors away from where we are living.

After a road trip up to Queensland just after the new year, we are happily settling back into a routine here in Victoria again. And the weather has brightened up.

Spending 5 days on the road and 6 days in Brisbane was nothing short of amazing. We did it easy, only driving 4 or 5 hours a day. The first day, Melbourne to Albury. What a pretty city! Stayed in a little motel, went to dinner at an italian place. Took a quick dip in the pool after dinner.

Next morning was a little bit of work, I took a walk around the town before 'L' got up and off on the road again. This time to Canberra.

Lovely hotel in Canberra but no pool. We ordered room service. Next morning I took a walk around the town after working for a couple hours and then we took off to Sydney - are you seeing a pattern!

The hotel I booked in Sydney was grossly misrepresented, and we canceled that upon arrival, booking another in a panic - when enroute to that one we canceled based on the horrible and recent reviews of the place, finally finding a last minute stay on Air BnB. It was a bit of a nightmare, there was yelling and some tears shed and a sense of urgency, what if we had to sleep in the car!!

In Sydney we stayed for 2 nights, and spent a whole day sightseeing, doing the tourist stuff. Beautiful weather. We were staying close to a ferry port, and some great asian food! Our Air B n B had a little indoor pool that we visited, but mainly we caught up on washing and prepared for the last stop before Brisbane.

Port Macquarie was next on the list, and we found a gorgeous beach to paddle in. Ask me about the spider on my face some time, and I'll be happy to tell you how I beat up Regina for making me think there were more on me!

Last day driving was about 5.5 hours, we arrived at our Air BnB, Regina went to the airport to pick up her sister and nephew who were staying at Broadbeach during our stay too. 'L' and I settled in and checked out the rooftop pool.

We all got a little sick that week in Brisbane, but pushed through to see family, have a beach day, a day at Bluey World, shopping, eating and resting. The days started early with work at 5 am, with me often crawling back into bed at 8 for a little extra nap time.

Tell you what though, I was really looking forward to coming 'home'. Where I know where all the kitchen utensils are, we have meat in the freezer for meals, and familiar sights and sounds. 'Routine'. And our nanny - a little relief from the 3 year old monster.

Even through the road trip brought tantrums, and not just from the kid, it was still worth it to see the things and the people we saw. To bring us close as a family unit (and a couple). And make us appreciate the small things.

I have noticed that family time hits differently when

we are nomadic. Afternoons laying together on the couch watching movies and eating snacks. Exciting beach visits where we race to the water. Getting caught in the rain bringing in groceries. Moments without phones. Connecting through car games and singing songs. It really is about presence. And sometimes at home, we don't make time for that.

I guess the main takeaway for me is that you don't need to love every moment to love the life you lead. There are challenges and there is joy. Underlying all of those experiences, is love. I love my family, I love our adventures and hope to keep enjoying all the things this life has to offer.