Well, we’ve survived a month in the job and despite one minor hitch (getting used to the computer system) all seems to be going well.
I’m getting to grips with the computer system and all the variations of bookings (changing dates, refunding, back-tracking and cashing up) and Dean is learning the site and where to pitch what type of unit (motorhome, tent, caravan etc.)
We’re well versed in cleaning the sanitary block and could do it with our eyes closed – not recommended though! Dean cannot fathom our rota though so keeps asking when we’re working! The machinery can be a bit of a challenge (for me anyway) but Dean has used them all.
I think the strimming machine is beyond me as it is too heavy but I’ve just discovered the petrol mower so should be able to contribute a bit more. It does take a bit of getting used to as it is a petrol driven mower with a throttle control so you think you’ve stopped but the maching wants to keep going! Philip confessed to having visions of me half way up the loch, unable to stop the thing but I think I’ve sussed it and as they say, practice makes perfect.
We’ve met lots of lovely campers, and last week we were on lates so were chatting to people on the loch shore between 9pm and 11pm. We’re all trying to spot the seals and the otters and fish have now started jumping.
Both of us are enjoying the job, even with the challenges it brings and are further convinced we’ve done the right thing. As once of the campers said the other day, our standard of living may have gone down but our quality of life has significantly improved!
About Dean
Angela and I decided that there was more to life than working hard to keep up the payments on the mortgage, to pay the gas, electric, phone bills etc. etc.
SO............
In 2008 we sold our house, I initially took a year off (Unpaid) and Angela handed in her notice!
We bought a motorhome and set off for a year of travelling!
This was the best thing we had done in our lives (Apart from getting married) and we have no regrets.
During the year I managed to secure a redundancy package which felt very strange. Almost sad as I had worked for the same company for 19 years (BT).
It was always our plan to have a whole year off before thinking about the 'W' word.
We began applying to the Camping and Caravanning Club (CCC) for the position of Holiday site assistants in August 2009. After the interview, work experience and induction we were finally given a contract at the CCC site in Inverewe (Scotland).
Our plan is to work through the summer in the UK then head to Europe to overwinter before coming back to work the following summer season.
Hopefully these few words and our blog will inspire others to get off the hamsters wheel and see that there is more to live than having a house and material things.
A cliche I know but this is not a rehearsal, life is too short!!!
Since our first contract in Scotland we have worked a winter contract in Oxford (never again!) not Oxford but a winter contract. Hereford for two years, living in a yurt for one! And Cornwall. In between our working we have also travelled a bit.
Hopefully this website will give you an insight into our alternative lifestyle.
Get out there and live the dream!
Well done guys! really pleased it’s working out for you. I think the last sentence says it all 🙂
Still waiting to hear from the C.C, cant wait.
Only hope we’re lucky enough to get such a beautifull place, the photography is wonderfull.
Best Wishes
Paul & ffiona.