Have you made a Sea change from a big City?

[~Kaz~]

I grew up in a major capitol city but have lived and worked in country areas for almost 10 years now. At first the country was a major culture shock for me! I have gotten used to it though and would not return to a city now for quids!

I currently live in what I consider to be a small country town and DP and I are taking it one step further and we have purchased acerage about 15 mins out of town. We plan to build etc over the next few years. I know that doesn't sound like much of a change but the only services to the block are electricity/phone line so our lifestyle out there will be totally different. We will not be on town water, or sewerage etc. I never thought I'd be a country girl but I totally can't wait!! I want to have chickens and even goats like Astrid. We plan to have lots of gardens and fruit trees and an eco friendly house. When I think about how great it's going to be out there, being in town now feels like we're too close to the rat race.

I reckon that if it "feels right" you should definitely go for it. I think there will be benefits that you can't even predict right now.

[Lucy]

I have up-sticks a lot of times.

Each time I have fretted over whether I am doing the right thing, especially with regard to leaving family and friends.

I have moved from the UK to Australia (in 1995).

I settled in Sydney where I met my DH and 5 years later we packed up the house and the dog and moved to Adelaide.

Then 2 years later we moved to the NT.

And 2 years after that we moved back to Adelaide.

(We have now lived in Adelaide for 4 years.)

I have no regrets at all! None whatsoever!

We are off to Sydney to see family and friends next week, and I am looking forward to it, but have no desire to live there again at all ever.

[Inanna]

I posted about similar - but we made the big move from West End (Inner city) Brisbane to the hinterland of the Sunshine Coast. A small farming community. From the day I shut the door in Brisbane to this second I have not regretted a thing!

Our stress levels went down immediately. Presently I (haven't broached it with DH yet!) have been seriously wondering about moving on again. I love Melb but couldn't do the city again - I really like the idea of Apollo Bay (hinterland again - I need some space I thin) or the Mornington Peninsula - only for an independent school I have heard of there...

Don't be afraid - feel the fear and do it anyway! If it feels right - you will learn heaps and have new experiences and adventures!