Jessie from Escape The Daily started her journey into motherhood at the age of 19 and now at 28 has three beautiful daughters aged 9, 4, and 2 years old. Jessie is extremely passionate about adventure which led her to start Escape The Daily which she runs alongside her partner Lachlan.
How do you Make Space For Adventure while being a mum? What changes have you made to your activities after becoming a mum?
Becoming a mother at a young age meant I hadn't really got out and adventured much before. However, I've grown to know no other form of adventure than with my kiddos in tow. From kayaking to hiking, my kids have always been by my side or strapped to me every step of the way.
Tell us about an adventure you’ve taken your kids on.
The list of adventures I haven't taken my kids on is probably shorter to give! We've chased waterfalls, played in the snow, explored caves, hiked mountains, and kayaked to islands. I hope that the adventures my kids embark on teach them the true value of life and that it’s too short to focus on materialistic things.
Why is continuing to be adventurous with your kids important to you?
Growing up in an abusive household, adventure and experiences were rare occurrences. So from a very young age, I knew I would do anything and everything to ensure my own children were given the opportunity to see and enjoy the world we live in. Going without, I realised the true value of adventuring, and I hope my children will grow up to cherish it as much as I do.
What challenges do you face when trying to adventure with kids and how do you overcome or embrace them?
The main challenge we face is fitting all our gear in the car. I never thought three small humans could need SO MUCH STUFF! The second biggest challenge would be little legs when we're attempting BIG adventures. We have always embraced baby wearing, and it is truly a godsend! We wouldn't be able to do half the remote things we do without carriers... and snacks.... snacks are very important too, as my 9-year-old would tell you—it's the difference between life and death!
What essential gear do you carry and how does Rhino-Rack fit into your adventure? Any packing or gear tips for other mums?
Organising the car before a big trip is crucial to any adventure. Forgetting someone's shoes or THE SNACKS! could spell disaster and ruin your trip before it even begins. We swear by the Rhino-Rack Luggage Bag. I pack it by placing each family member's belongings in their own bag, then stack them inside the Luggage Bag along with our pillows and blankets. This method ensures that if someone needs something, we know exactly which bag to grab. YES! It all fits and zips! This frees up so much space inside the car, making it much less overwhelming.
What message do you want to share with mums this Mother's Day?
I know it can feel overwhelming, but I promise you, the hardest part is getting to the adventure. Once you're there and see your children's faces and hear their laughter, you'll want to do it ten times over. Adventuring with kids is absolutely a mission, and if anyone tells you it's easy, they're lying! There will be tears, from everyone, at some stage, but that's just what makes the story so much better when they're older.
How do you balance your role as a mother with other aspects of your life, such as work or personal hobbies?
I'm writing this with my two-year-old dangling around my neck, so to be totally honest, there is no magic method. But as a mum, we put our heads down and get it done, no matter what. Even when things seem impossible or out of reach for us or our children, we make it happen.
How have you found support or inspiration from other mothers?
No matter where you go, you'll see a mum, whether it's at the shops or down the beach. I feel like all of us simply give each other that look, as if a nod to say, "I know what you're going through, and you're nailing it." Support is often silent, but a simple smile from another mum during a toddler or tweenager tantrum speaks volumes. I have absolutely been that mum with the screaming toddler rolling around in the shops like a pile of ants has swallowed them, but I'll never forget that one mum who walked through all of the judgmental looks and said I was doing a good job and that it will all one day be a distant memory.
