Our First Big Trip Without Any Kids

In July we did something we’d never done before — our first big trip without the kids. It felt a little strange at first, just the two of us, but also exciting as we have wanted to do something like this for ages. We flew into Cairns, stayed for a week, and got to explore the beauty of Mossman Gorge, the Daintree, Cape Tribulation, the colourful Port Douglas Markets, Kuranda, and the turquoise waters of Green Island. We caught up with friends and cousins, shared laughs, and soaked up the tropical warmth.

Once upon a time, I never thought I could enjoy doing something like this after Sean died. The idea of travelling, of making memories without him here, felt impossible. But I’ve come to realise that not only do we deserve these moments, but that taking them is also a way of honouring him. Sean never got the chance to travel, so I made sure to take a bit of him with me on this trip — in my heart, in my thoughts, and in the way I looked at the world around me.

Leaving Cairns, we began the road trip south in our RV. The days became a rhythm of driving, exploring, and sleeping under the stars. We wound our way down the coast through Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, and Hervey Bay — each place with its own character and charm. All stops were just for a night but gave us time to linger and breathe in the coastal air.

By the time we rolled into Brisbane, the trip had filled us with memories we’ll keep forever — not just of the places we saw, but of the time we spent together, exploring, laughing, and feeling the freedom of the road. It was our first big trip without the kids, but I think it’s safe to say it definitely won’t be our last.