When I first signed up for the job with Ascension Recruitment at Arnold Mardix, I thought, eight weeks away from home — that’s manageable. What I didn’t know back then was just how much those two months would change me, and how many stories I’d bring back. Looking back now, it feels like a mixture of work, laughter, challenges, Sunday mornings full of music and prayer, long walks in Cumbria, and the occasional homesick pang for Ralf.
Settling Into Kendal
Arriving in Kendal felt like stepping into a postcard. The town is charming, surrounded by hills and close to the beauty of the Lake District. But I wasn’t there as a tourist — I was there to work. Ascension Recruitment had arranged everything, including accommodation, which was part of the pay deal. At first, I thought, great, one less thing to worry about.
And truly, I was lucky. The agency made sure we were looked after, and Kieran, in particular, was always available. He was our safety net. When you live and work away from home, little things matter — like knowing you’ve got someone to turn to if the accommodation becomes awkward or if tensions rise.
And tensions did rise. People smoke, some drink, others just keep to themselves. Living together isn’t always easy, especially when everyone has different habits and moods. But Kieran never left us stranded. He listened, stepped in when he needed to, and made sure we felt supported.
Work at Arnold Mardix
At Arnold Mardix, I met some of the most amazing people. The team atmosphere was welcoming and fun, but also professional and serious when it had to be. Those eight weeks weren’t just about earning money — they were about growing, pushing myself, and seeing how much I could take on.
What stood out to me most was the teamwork. It wasn’t always smooth sailing, but there was this sense of pulling together to get the job done. I learned a lot from the people around me, and I hope I left something positive with them too.
Every day had its rhythm — starting early, working through the challenges of the day, then heading back to shared accommodation where the real “community living” began. Some nights we’d laugh and share stories, other nights everyone kept to themselves. But there was always this sense of, we’re in this together.
Discovering the Salvation Army Corps
One of the biggest surprises of my time in Kendal was how much the local Salvation Army Corps became part of my life. One Sunday, I decided to go along, thinking it might be nice to see how the community worked here. What I didn’t expect was to feel like part of a family the moment I walked in.
Captain Hillary, who leads the Corps, is truly inspiring. She has this way of making you feel seen, welcomed, and appreciated, no matter who you are or where you come from. Her energy, her commitment, her kindness — they left such a mark on me.
From that first Sunday, I felt like I had found a second home. The people were warm, friendly, and genuinely supportive. When you’re living away from your own family, that sort of connection is priceless. It wasn’t just about church; it was about community, about people coming together to care for one another.
I’ll never forget how it felt walking in and being greeted with smiles and open arms. It reminded me that kindness and belonging can be found anywhere, even when you least expect it.
Exploring on Days Off
Of course, I didn’t spend all my time working or at the Corps. Days off were an opportunity to explore Kendal and beyond.
Windermere became a favourite. There’s something magical about that lake — whether you’re standing by the shore, watching boats drift by, or walking along its paths with the hills rolling in the background. The air feels fresher there, like it’s washing away the stress of the week.
Other places around Kendal were just as charming. The town itself is full of character — little shops, winding streets, and the remains of Kendal Castle perched on the hill. Walking up there gave me some of the best views of the town, especially on clear days.
Exploring became a way to recharge, to remind myself that while I was there to work, I was also in one of the most beautiful parts of England. Each day out felt like a little adventure, a reward for the hard work during the week.
Missing Home and Ralf
As much as I loved Kendal, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t miss home. More specifically, I missed Ralf.
Anyone who has a dog knows how quickly they become part of your heart. Being away from him was one of the hardest parts of the whole experience. I tried to get home every two weeks just to see him, to remind him (and myself) that our bond was still strong. Those reunions were always emotional — dogs have a way of making you feel like you’ve been gone for years, even if it’s only been days.
Thankfully, I had Victoria, my dog walker, who stepped in while I was away. She walked Ralf twice a day, every single day for eight weeks. Yes, she charged me, but the peace of mind was worth it. Knowing he was cared for made it possible for me to focus on work and enjoy my time in Kendal without constant worry.
Still, I’d lie in bed some nights wishing he was there, curling up at my feet. That’s the thing about working away — no matter how many good things are happening, part of you always longs for home.
The Ups and Downs of Living Away
Those eight weeks weren’t perfect. There were days when I felt exhausted, when the accommodation felt cramped, when the small annoyances of living with others got under my skin. There were moments of homesickness that hit unexpectedly, like walking past a family with their dog or hearing a song that reminded me of home.
But there were also moments of pure joy — laughing with colleagues after a tough day, sitting by Windermere with the sun on my face, hearing Hillary’s words of encouragement at the Corps, or simply having a quiet cup of tea in Kendal, watching the world go by.
It was a mix of highs and lows, but that’s what made it real. Life away from home isn’t a holiday — it’s a test of resilience, patience, and openness. And I think I came out stronger because of it.
Lessons I’ll Carry With Me
Looking back now, these are some of the lessons I’ll always carry from my time in Kendal:
- Support matters. Having Kieran from Ascension always there for us was a huge relief. Knowing someone had our backs made all the difference.
- Community is everywhere. From my colleagues at Arnold Mardix to the Salvation Army family, I found belonging in unexpected places.
- Balance is key. Working hard was important, but so was taking time to explore, rest, and connect with others.
- Home is where the heart is. Missing Ralf reminded me of what truly matters and why I work hard in the first place.
- Kindness leaves a mark. Whether it was a smile at the Corps, a colleague’s encouragement, or Victoria’s care for Ralf, the small gestures meant the most.
Saying Goodbye
Leaving Kendal after eight weeks was bittersweet. I was excited to go home, to be reunited with Ralf properly, to sleep in my own bed, and to return to familiar routines. But part of me also felt a pang of sadness — for the friends I’d made, the routines I’d built, and the unexpected sense of belonging I’d found in a little town in Cumbria.
Life has a funny way of surprising us. What began as “just a work contract” turned into so much more: an adventure, a season of growth, and a collection of memories I’ll hold onto for years.
Would I do it again? Absolutely. Because even though it wasn’t always easy, it was real, and it was worth it. Kendal will always hold a special place in my story.