The big decision was not one I took lightly. I prayed a lot about it, made lists and just knew it was the right thing for me to do. Like I said, I could of forced myself to stay (at a great cost to myself health wise!) but I knew I wouldn’t be doing what I was supposed to be doing so instead I followed where I was being called. I don’t have another job lined up. I do very part time work for a teaching organization (about 5 sessions a year) which I would love to increase as it is really ideal – low stress, great location, fabulous support and something I really enjoy! Each year they slightly increase my number of sessions, so my prayer is that eventually it might lead to a 1-2 day a week position. My old employer has asked me if I’d be interested in doing some freelance work as has my current (soon to be ex employer) and I have said yes to both. This will at a maximum be 1 day a month for each. Over time these may increase as well, which would be good. Despite all the hardships, I feel pleased that I gave a good impression and showed myself as a hard worker so that they were wanted to still have me be a part of the work. I plan to only focus on these work committments until September (this will give me a good 5 months break with only working very part time), I will however in May begin looking for more part time work (freelance and contract) for September. My goal is to have several part time jobs, some freelance some guaranteed wage but working no more than 30 hours a week, maximum. Included in that I’d love a job out of my profession working in a book shop or tea room a day a week would be wonderful!
So what am I going to do?
In truth right now very little, this is a season of rest for me. I’m focusing on two important things over the next few months – the first is my health and the second is my spiritual self! I’ve already offered my help in voluntary roles & been accepted, however I’m not starting any until the end of April or beginning of May (at least!) as I want to really dedicate the next 6 weeks to my health – my basic plan each day is to take all my meds, get 6 fruit & veg a day, walk for 1 hour a day, go to the gym or swim each day (great source of stress relief for me, especially swimming) and begin running. I’ve also set myself a challenge starting today to memorize a scripture passage each day!
What else?
I’ve signed up to study for a certificate in theology! It is a part time endevor – about 6 hours a week. This is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time but it was never the right time!
I plan to blog a lot more, perhaps try to write some articles for publishing (Sandie you always said I should have a newspaper column!). Sadly I don’t think the Guardian, Independent, Times or Telegraph would be interested! I’d also like to start blogging about food, cooking and baking but am not sure whether I should blog about that here or create a new blog. Any suggestions? I will of course also begin blogging about my attempt to grow my own fruit & veggies – the plan is to begin planting this weekend! I can have an average of 15,000 readers a week (when I’m blogging regularly!) so I feel like I should ask your opinion about what you want me to write about!
I plan to work on my baking (especially breads & cakes!) and cooking. If only my local cookery school was cheaper I’d seriously consider making it an area of study!
Picture of a huge batch of truffles I made!
I also want to learn how to really really practice the art of photography.
And I’m hoping it won’t be a 3 year wait for an allotment! I have my wellies all ready and waiting!!!
And……if the link above didn’t let you know, I’ve moved out of London. Oh it is blissful, oh it is lovely to be home and I feel firmly where I am meant to be!!!
In the next post I’ll share more about the new living situation and be discussing the meet up! I for one can’t wait!
Any one else out there want to begin running? Are you happy to start slow & steady and blog about it so we can encourage each other? My goal is to be able to run a 1/2 marathon in the next 12 months!
Good for you FT – may this be the start of your new life as you truly want to live it .
babs xx
By: babs on March 19, 2009
at 11:16 am
Wow, it sounds like you have your plans totally sorted and in order. I need to take a leaf out of your book!!! All sounds wonderful and I wish you all the luck in the world. Mind you, luck has little to do with it – you have really worked hard and been focused to get to this point. I started my blog in addition to my old blog, now I wish I had just kept everything in one place because my old blog is no more and our tale seems a little disjointed. I would suggest keeping it all in one place, but that’s me! Anyway, onwards and look forward to many more beautiful photographs.
By: Living the Rural Dream on March 19, 2009
at 11:33 am
Thanks Babs!
By: Frugal Trenches on March 19, 2009
at 11:45 am
As always I’m impressed. Your doing what YOU want to do and living your life to the fullest! Rest and get better soon!
Sam
By: an ostrich named sam on March 19, 2009
at 11:45 am
Living The Rural Dream – that is a really good point re the blog! Had not thought of that!
I agree re luck. I have a friend that keeps saying to me “oh you are so lucky” but she has a husband and they have 3x my income, about 10x my savings and no kids, they could very easily step down but don’t want to. I really believe except for major circumstances (illness, death etc) we make our own luck by the choices and priorities we have!
By: Frugal Trenches on March 19, 2009
at 11:46 am
Thanks Sam!!
By: Frugal Trenches on March 19, 2009
at 11:47 am
It’s lovely to read of this next step in your life.
You are making good decisions and living in the right place!
You say you don’t think any newspapers would be interested … but don’t assume that without contacting them (or the E and E).
If you were closer I’d join you on the photography course … I’d love to do one.
The freelance work idea sounds good.
I used to do a couple of part time jobs but found that they were quite tiring … Which day is this? Where am I meant to be? (But I am HEAPS older than you!). My daughter had three on the go when she was saving for a 6 month trip to India.
If your taking medication and getting over illness, perhaps the Marathon should wait a little?
By: Sandie on March 19, 2009
at 11:56 am
I meant to say Half Marathon!!!
By: Sandie on March 19, 2009
at 11:57 am
Don’t worry Sandie, I’ll take it slow. I reckon it will be next spring before I run one!! If you could see me run now, well I’m pretty pathetic!
I’m terrible at tooting my own horn so I doubt I could sell myself. Maybe I’ll work on it
By: Frugal Trenches on March 19, 2009
at 11:59 am
I agree with ‘Living the rural dream’ about keeping it all in one place. Besides, learning more about producing and preparing food is a big part of financial freedom anyway – I see it as all part of the same thing, if you know what I mean! Good luck with all your plans.
By: Shoestring on March 19, 2009
at 1:29 pm
wonderful plans and a DELICIOUS looking batch of truffles ! mmmmm!
By: neimanmarxist on March 19, 2009
at 1:53 pm
Your plans are inspiring! Enjoy your resting period. I’m glad to hear you will be blogging more often. I look forward to future posts.
By: Tracy on March 19, 2009
at 2:12 pm
Well done on taking such a big decision!It can be hard to prioritise looking after ourselves, even when it is the right thing to do.
By: French Knots on March 19, 2009
at 2:28 pm
There is a blog I read called *Simple – Green – Frugal*. The blogger is in a similiar position as you, tho married. She has an illnes which keeps her from working at a full time job. However, she gardens and cooks, is an avid supporter of the farmers market, etc., and blogs about it all in one spot. It is fun to keep up with her and all her actilvities! Your blog is great, and I think you should keep it all together in one place.
By: Sherry on March 19, 2009
at 2:30 pm
Consider the following website. It really helped me on my journey.
http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml
By: Ashley on March 19, 2009
at 2:39 pm
Congratulations! I’m looking forward to hearing more about all your adventures so I hope you keep it here all on one blog.
I think the advantage of having part-time work is not only will it help you keep work in the proper time amount, it will help you figure out what you want to spend your time on and either reduce/increase it easily. If you find it is too much, you can easily quit – much more easier than a full-time job.
By: Cathy on March 19, 2009
at 3:15 pm
Big decisions! (Good looking truffles.) I’ve run a 1/2 marathon before, and 12 months is more than enough time in which to train (I think my running partner and I trained in 8-9 months).
There were so many things you mentioned about doing — I am always interested in not only the foods you make, but your portion sizes, as well as your diet and exercise plan…
But right now, rest. I totally understand that; maybe writing short essays on your thoughts, investigations etc. discovered while during this time in your life.
And, finally, good luck with the theology certificate! That’s wonderful.
By: sonrie on March 19, 2009
at 3:44 pm
Hi there-fabulous news my dear, well done on the permanent move and all the best for the new part time jobs!
By: sharon rose on March 19, 2009
at 4:37 pm
If you want a slow & steady running system visit: http://www.waddle-on.com/
It’s a great site aimed at people who just want to run for fitness, not to get a certain time or to be really competative about it.
I love to run, although because of injury have been off for the last 6 months. I actually prefer gardening for my excercise this time of year.
I can’t wait to see your progress in this area. It’s always inspiring to see. A great documentary to check out is: http://www.marathonmovie.com/pr_lasf.html If you can get it from the library I would highly recommend it. It’s very inspiring.
By: Chiot's Run on March 19, 2009
at 4:41 pm
That’s terrific! I envy you your sense of purpose and direction. I’ll be looking forward to sharing your journey vicariously.
By: Kathy on March 19, 2009
at 6:17 pm
Good for you for “making your own luck” as you put it. I agree 100% — it’s all about the choices we make based on what’s important to us. It’s great to know you’ll be taking time to focus on your health first and foremost. And I think keeping the food related posts right here is a good idea, too. There is a lot of overlap and there seems to be interest from your current readers. Can’t wait to hear about your new digs outside of town. I know THAT is making you happy
By: Healthy Amelia on March 19, 2009
at 8:23 pm
I am sooo excited for you! I think it is great that you are truly going for what you feel is right in your life. Being happy and healthy is the most important thing. After college I began working part-time as a teacher and also part-time at a greenhouse. I recommend any sort of job that you feel aligns with your beliefs and your passions. good luck to you with your running:)
By: Sally Mae on March 20, 2009
at 12:01 am
great post and well done on your decisions. We are moving to our rural dream house on 4.8 acres on May 1st of this year, so we will both be able to lean on one another through this adjustment.
Gill in Canada
By: Gill on March 20, 2009
at 12:07 am
I’m so pleased for you!
I also recommend coolrunning.com.
I am registered to run my 1st 1/2 marathon this May, but I’ve been struggling with having the time to train so I think I will participate in the 10K. I am currently fundraising for The Arthritis Society here in Canada as a member of Joints In Motion. Myself and 4 co-workers will be completing the Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon in September. I am really excited about it.
You may want to consider a weekly feature in a newspaper or magazine on frugal living? With the state of the economy it might really fly. Good luck!
The Theology studies will be so interesting. I can’t wait to hear about your new knowledge.
By: Melaniesd on March 20, 2009
at 2:27 am
I am excited for you to begin this next, HEALTHY, journey!!
By: Frugal Dreamer on March 20, 2009
at 3:10 am
You are the most inspirational blogger I “know”
Whenever I read your entries I am filled with peace and quiet joy. I love your new home, easier lifestyle and attention to health. How wonderful that you have great goals set within your downtime
By: Anny on March 20, 2009
at 6:12 am
very inspiring post. and bloody good for you. Its great to hear how you are moving on. yes I agree to keeping it all in one place. your posts are all good and it shows the whole story. and 15,000 readers should impress some newspaper or other! you could start local and build up maybe? and also be aware that waitressing in a tea shop can hard work. Although if a lovely local place it could be a good community thing to do. However there are other community things you could do – ie I organised a table top sale for baby equipment, toys and clothes. A friend ran the cafe selling her own delicious cakes. She sold out and made £70 in 2 hours – she could have made more, but she ran out of cakes before the end of the sale, and she was only selling them for £1 each, not posh prices (though they were very very to die for cakes!) And you wouldn’t be bringing £70 home from a days work in a tea shop. Just an idea. I love the way you think about things and then ACT. its all most inspiring. Go for it. Your dreams will come true, because, you are SO right. Luck is something you make yourself……
By: moyra on March 20, 2009
at 9:27 am
Congratulations on your courageous decision and I’m sure that everything will turn out very well.
Going freelance and working from home was the best thing I ever did. People still regularly ask me when I’m going to get a full-time job again and I say, “Never!”
If you are interested in writing and selling articles, http://www.constant-content.com is a good place to start. Once you have sold a few and had them published, it’s easier to approach publishers.
I’m very glad to hear that you are feeling better. It’s very wise of you to take time out to recover. Don’t rush getting back into the swing of things.
Best wishes,
Roz
By: Roz on March 20, 2009
at 9:27 am
I say write about it all and throw it all on the same blog.
About running: I’m starting this year. I’ve always wanted to run. My legs ache to run. I frequently dream at night of running. Two yrs ago I couldn’t walk properly and needed a wheelchair. Now I’m all fixed up (thank you, chiropractor) and ready to run. But I have asthma. The most I’ve ever run is 1 mile straight. My goal this yr is 3 miles. I can do about 1/4 right now. My doc gave me some supplements to help the lungs, and I can’t wait to get to my goal!
And your truffles made me think of ovaries and cysts!
God bless!
By: Lazy Susie on March 20, 2009
at 2:51 pm
Absolutely you can add me to the blogroll!
My email isn’t working? Hmmm… it’s cattersonj[at]gmail[dot]com
By: Jessica on March 20, 2009
at 7:45 pm
Wow – now your a girl with her priorities sorted out! I totally admire you for what you have achieved and look forward to following your progress. Well done, and Good Luck
By: Diane on March 20, 2009
at 8:22 pm
Good for you … well done! It does sounds like you’ll be busy though and I was concerned that I haven’t heard about any knitting goals LOL. How is that going?
I am thrilled to hear you’ll be able to blog more as I missed reading / being encouraged by your words. Wishing you a speady recovery!
By: Amanda E. on March 21, 2009
at 5:01 am
Wow, what exciting changes! As an ex-Londoner who moved out of the city a few years back I can understand you making that choice. Good luck with the running. Another good website is running4women.com. I’d definitely recommend getting a few shorter races under your belt, like a 5 k and a 10k, before you do a half-marathon.
By: Ella on March 21, 2009
at 11:10 am
Congratulations on your decision!
It will be really interesting to read about your new journey and I think it will all be relevant to this blog!
I’m loving seeing all the photos of Devon – it’s one place I’ve never been but would love to go!
By: My Life Makeover Journey on March 21, 2009
at 12:10 pm
congrats are in order i think?!
By: Sarah on March 21, 2009
at 5:16 pm
those truffles look delish.
By: deepali on March 22, 2009
at 11:53 am
congratulations on all of your wonderful accomplishments! life will only continue to get better, and richer, as you go. i have a feeling your break will improve both your health and outlook tremendously. you are a true inspiration. in fact, just yesterday i spent the “beginnings” of vacation-away money on a large work of charity i’m planning. and right after i did that, i didn’t feel sad … i felt so good, and warm inside, and peaceful. and totally happy that this had grounded me and it was like this light bulb instantly went on and said, “you wouldn’t have had all the money you needed to travel this summer.” now i’m happy to stay here in this great city where i live and still do many of the same things i’d planned to while away. it’s so, so great to be a naturally giving person. what a life!
By: Karen on March 22, 2009
at 4:02 pm
IF you want to publish articles, don’t think of the newspapers first! Pshaw! The UK has all sorts of magazines often looking for writers on the popular topics you love to live & write about (food, frugality, hospitality, running). Write some inquiry letters to editors or topic editors and find out what stories they need written for $$$. There are also theology magazines out there!
I also thought — if you want to take classes at the local culinary school, barter. Check out their website. Do they need a better blog? Could you also interview other students/ instructors, take photographs of classes, or otherwise make their service (website/classes/admissions) better with your skills and talents? Maybe writing for the school could also get you some PR with other magazines publications. Do some school & website research and then approach the school!! They probably would love to have you help them as much as you’d love to help and learn as you go! You may not have tutition, but you do have eagerness and a skillset! Go! Do! Live the dream! We’re all cheering you on!
By: Bee on March 22, 2009
at 4:50 pm
I do enjoy reading about your running too. I’ve been there many times. I love to run, but it comes and goes. Last year I ran a 10k in just over an hour. This year, I can’t seem to bring myself to run more than 20 min at a time. It just feels really good to do it, regardless of how fast or how far.
By: Marcia on March 22, 2009
at 7:02 pm
15,000 readers a week, that is so awsome. You must have one of the most popular blogs in the blogworld. I can’t imagine having that many.
By: Margaret Hall on March 23, 2009
at 12:20 am