We have had the caravan for a number of months now but have not had many chances to get out and test it out. However, over the past couple of months there have been a number of life events for us, including the birth of our 3rd daughter (Aurora). We have therefore been able to get an extended period of leave from work which has allowed us to finally have some shakedown trips in the Caravan. For these we have just been staying in Caravan parks, mainly due to the heat and humidity in Darwin and needing the use of the air conditioner. The caravan has been better than we had hoped and expected. We had all been sort of dreading moving into such a small space and how we would go being on top of each other constantly. However, it has worked really well. Anthea and I have really been enjoying the time we have been able to spend as a family and we have been bonding so much more over the past few weeks than it seems we had over the past couple of years. Jasmine and Isabellas relationship has blossomed and they have both become such confident, energetic, and lively young girls. It is so wonderful watching them just being able to be kids.
Jasmine and Isabella enjoying playing outdoors while waiting for Aurora to arrive Oct 2019
The smaller space is actually a blessing. There is less to clean for starters and it is easier to keep everything tidy. It has been quite cathartic to downsize and live a much more minimimalist life. We are not actually looking forward to returning home, even though it is only for a short time, as we have become used to the time in the caravan.
Some notable moments so far. Jasmine celebrated her 4th birthday in June, her first night in the caravan. ISabella celebrated her 3rd birthday in the caravan in November. Aurora was born in Oct 2019 and has spent her nights in the caravan in Nov 2019. Anthea and I have celebrated our 4th wedding anniversary. Jasmine has learned to swim without support. Isabella can ride her bike independantly (still using training wheels but can peddle). It has been quite a busy few weeks and we are excited to see what is to come next.