Drove around Australia in an old station wagon, hitched in New Zealand, sourced various planes, buses, trains in the USA, Canada & South East Asia. Climbed my first base-camped Annapurna II in Nepal.
Gained travel experiences and cultures galore, including reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro at -23 degrees, many stories to be shared one day in my future!
A sudden family loss brought me back to the UK, so I hung up my backpack.
That year, I was just chillin’ and working hard, saving to head to South America. Trying to heal from the family loss of my brother, and from a toxic and violently abusive relationship I had finally escaped from.
A new Beau chased me for months, I eventually went on that date, months later swooped off my feet. Married life began. I am super proud to be the 'Muma' of 2 beautiful daughters and grateful to have them in my life. We moved around often, lived in the UK, as Expats in Germany, and Budapest, continually adjusting, readjusting and fitting into new communities. As a ‘stay at home mum’ I dedicated my life to my family, tending to all daily needs, while my ‘then spouse’ climbed his very successful corporate ladder.
After dedicating 24 years to marriage, a very ‘sour cherry’ led me to a huge decision. I returned to the UK and immediately filed for divorce, prioritising my own physical and mental health. Not an easy decision or journey. Both daughters were at University in the UK, so it was a necessity and a no-brainer to return back to the UK, in fact it was my solicitors first advice, and she was right.
The next 5.5 years were a turmoil of difficult financial and legal battles, both in mediation and family court. A profound awakening, revealing the extent of financial and coercive control, and the implications for my own future.
As an Expat living overseas I had the additional exhaustion of navigating a move back to the UK, which itself had major challenges. Especially adjusting back to the UK and rebuilding my life and community.
The experience and knowledge gained with moving back, and how to navigate legal systems in other countries has added an important bow to my coaching.
Brilliant session.
Barb really put me at ease and enabled me to talk about some
quite emotional issues. She was amazing and has helped massively.
Yes, I struggle to stay on the path, but I am safe in the knowledge that I can
go back to your words, which help me get back on track.
I can not tell you the strength I get even though I have struggled externally and internally.
Thank you for your words of guidance and reassurance.
You've always been able to read me, and I am forever grateful that you 'get me'.
Thank you Barb,
you have such a lovely way about you.
So calm and understanding.