In December 2020, a family from Manchester, England embarked on a transformative journey by relocating to a rural hamlet in Poitou-Charentes, south-west France. Liz Murphy, along with her husband and children, made the bold decision to leave their three-bedroom home and move to a vast plot of land. The move promised both challenges and opportunities, as they sought a better quality of life, embracing both sustainability and family support in their new environment.
The family has indeed settled into their new life with gusto. They have surrounded themselves with three goats, four chickens, and two Shetland ponies, reflecting their commitment to a simpler, self-sufficient lifestyle. Additionally, they installed 60 solar panels on their property—a clear step toward their goal of living off the grid. Liz Murphy explained their motivation behind these changes:
“We’re trying to get ourselves off grid,” – Liz Murphy
Their new home, named Lac De Maison, now boasts three holiday homes that accommodate up to 19 people. This endeavor has become a significant part of their life in France, although it required extensive renovations. Liz Murphy candidly described the effort involved:
“Everything was a bit tired. It was blood sweat and tears but worth it in the end. A change for being in the rat race. With properties of this size and age, I don’t think renovations ever finish.” – Liz Murphy
The Murphys' decision to leave the UK was further bolstered by the support of Liz's parents, Helen and Terry, who sold their home to join them in France. Their proximity has been a boon for the family, providing invaluable support and childcare assistance.
“My mom and stepdad decided to sell their house and come with us. Let’s do it.’” – Liz Murphy
Having her parents nearby has afforded Liz and her husband the peace of mind that comes with having trusted babysitters just a minute away.
“It’s been lovely – having them so close by for the kids has been really great. It’s great to have on-site babysitters.” – Liz Murphy
While the Murphys make less money in France than they did in Manchester, they are mortgage-free and relish the improved quality of life that their new surroundings afford them.
“In France, we’re mortgage free. So although we’re making less money than we did in the UK, it’s massively outweighed by our quality of life.” – Liz Murphy
The Murphys' children, Tom and Charlotte, have adapted to their new environment by attending local French schools, further integrating the family into their new community.
Despite all the positive changes, there have been challenges. The financial demands of renovating their new home exceeded expectations.
“We spent more than we thought we were going to,” – Liz Murphy
Nonetheless, Liz remains optimistic about the investments they are making into their property.
“But everything we are putting into it is to future proof it for others when they want to come and live here.” – Liz Murphy
Although life in France is idyllic in many ways, there are still moments when Liz misses aspects of her life back in the UK.
“I miss my friends and family, we all do. But other than that, I miss Walkers prawn cocktail crisps and Twining’s earl grey tea bags.” – Liz Murphy
The family makes it a point to visit the UK at least once a year to reconnect with loved ones and enjoy familiar comforts.
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