The Bakers Adventures

This weekend has been truly magical. Between festive outings and cosy family moments, it’s reminded me just how much joy there is to be found in the season. But if I’m being honest, Christmas also brings with it a wave of overstimulation and overwhelm. It’s not just the busyness or the constant stream of to-dos. It’s the emotional weight of wanting everything to feel perfect, for the kids, for everyone. I find myself battling between loving these moments and feeling drained by the pressure I put on myself to make them special.

Like, as much as I’m looking forward to Dan’s return, there’s this underlying pressure I feel about making sure the house is perfect for him. I know it might sound crazy, but the idea of him walking in and seeing something out of place fills me with a strange kind of anxiety. I’ve even started noticing things I didn’t before, like marks on furniture or how the walls could really use a touch of paint. It’s as if I’m holding myself accountable for every little imperfection, convinced that this is all Dan will notice when he walks through the door. It’s funny because these things were there before he left, but now, with his return on the horizon, they feel like glaring problems. It’s like I’m putting so much pressure on myself to create this perfect environment, as though the smallest flaw could undo everything good I’ve achieved.. But the truth is, he’s not going to care about marks on the wall, and it’s just me overthinking and setting these unrealistic expectations. Recognising this is enough for me to snap myself out of it, but it’s frustrating it even holds a space in my head for a second giving the work I’ve been doing on myself.

I’ve had many people lately asking.. where Dan is and what application you fill in to get a job offer in Africa.. so I thought I’d share more on Dan’s move to Kenya. It all came about so unexpectedly. 2 months ago we were living our life as was and had no plans on relocating. We were on holiday when Dan got a call for what, at the time, seemed like just another opportunity. He was open-minded but didn’t yet realise the magnitude of what was ahead.

Dan wasn’t actively looking for a new job. He was happy where he was, content with his team and the work he was doing. But I knew he felt the progress in his role wasn’t matching the fire he had inside. Still, his loyalty and patience meant he stayed put, focused on his work rather than searching elsewhere. But life has a way of rewarding those who are ready, even if they don’t know it yet. And when he put out the thought, even in passing, that something life-changing could tempt him, the stars aligned.

It’s funny how manifestation works. I’ve always seen Dan’s potential, his talent, and his incredible ability to build relationships, teach, coach, and inspire. When this opportunity came, it felt like it was meant for him. A job that not only recognised his value but allowed him to combine his passions – nature, culture, travel – with his expertise.

He’s now the Director of Operations for a remarkable company which is growing rapidly. Watching him embrace this role with humility and determination has been inspiring. He’s always been someone who leads through service, lifting others up, seeing their potential even before they do. He’s never just been a manager but a mentor and a role model, and I admire him endlessly for that.

This role wasn’t just about a step up for Dan. It was about what it could mean for all of us as a family. The salary, the security, the opportunities for travel and new experiences – this is something that could reshape our future. And as much as it was a no-brainer for him, it was also a leap into the unknown for us.

As a family, we’re planning to join Dan in Kenya next autumn, after most of my weddings for the year are complete and the girls current school year nears to an end. Thankfully, only a few weddings fall outside of this timeline, and I’m incredibly lucky to have built such strong connections and working relationships that I can step away with ease and confidence. I’ll still be editing and managing all the administrative work remotely, ensuring I remain fully involved in my business.

I’ve worked so hard alongside my bestie and work wife Tash to grow our wedding business into something I’m so proud of. It’s not something I’m prepared to sacrifice, and thankfully, the seasonal nature of the industry allows me the flexibility to pursue this dream with Dan without it damaging my brand. The quieter months mean I can juggle the balance of work and family, which I’m endlessly grateful for. It just means a couple trips back in the duration of our adventure to honour my commitments.

For now, though, I’ll be here juggling the usual chaos – keeping everything ticking along, and dreaming of the future. Focusing on being present and enjoying the little moments, knowing that, no matter how overwhelming it can all feel at times, the pieces are falling into place and we are exactly where we are suppose to be.