I am snuggled in bed in the beautiful home of some even more beautiful friends. They are more than generous and are allowing me to stay with them for a while.
I feel overwhelmed at the thought of trying to catch up on this here blog. I think two months of my life will just be skipped as it is too much to try to recall the happenings. Maybe an update entirely of photos is in order.
I am home. It has been ten days and it feels as though I never left. The only strange thing about coming home was how natural it felt. It was uneventful (aside from reuniting with the people I know and love). Life just continued on while I was gone. I spent 200 days traveling the world, but my friends and family spent 200 days continuing their normal lives and I just melted right back in. It is both comforting and disconcerting.
I remember when Lindsey had her twins... I went to the grocery store the morning after meeting my beautiful nieces and picked up a few things. I distinctly remember watching everyone else going about their every day and felt an intense urge to loudly announce that my sister had just delivered two babies from her nether regions. The people I was watching looked bored and uninspired and I wanted them to know that a miracle had taken place. But that day was just another ordinary day for most people.
And it is similar being home. I got to experience all these incredible things, but they mean nothing to anyone else.
I locked my keys in the car the first time I drove to the grocery store and felt the need to announce that I hadn't driven in seven months because I was busy hiking in Colca Canyon, or seeing Machu Picchu, or strolling through the hills in Scotland, or riding a dirt bike to the equator, or eating larva, or snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, or visiting Angkor Wat. I had an excuse for being so silly -- I hadn't driven a car in seven months because I off gallivanting. I felt that it was important for people to know as I saw a few customers roll their eyes at me. I sheepishly had to ask to use a phone to call my Dad to come help me. Now that I have written this I'm not entirely sure how it ties in...
I'm not expecting people to be amazed at my trip or anything -- it isn't that at all -- but life went on while I was off on my adventure. And that is awesome.
It feels like a dream, our trip. I have looked through a few pictures of our travels and it is surreal to think of the miles we covered over the last seven months. I feel as though it should have more of an impact on my life. I feel as though it should have changed me. I should be more compassionate, more thoughtful, more thankful, more intentional, more educated, more empathetic, more generous, and more inspired. And maybe I am. Maybe I'm not. I guess we will have to wait and see.
I am tangenting off so far I have no idea where I am going with this thing.
I am curious to see the impact this last chapter in our lives has on us. I wonder if it has changed us and how. Was it just a vacation? What did we learn? How will we be inspired? How will it affect our daily life? Will it be an isolated event that we experienced with no lasting effects?
I cannot wait for Erik to come home from Alaska so we can sit with these questions and the many others that have been rolling around in our minds. I am interested to debrief with him and to see what we learned.
For now, it is nice to be home. It is comforting that life just went on for everyone else. It is easy to pick up where we left off. It's true, there is no place like home.
Showing posts with label travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label travel. Show all posts
Friday, July 12, 2013
Saturday, April 20, 2013
Packing Recommendations.
I have had a few people ask me how one goes about packing for six months of traveling, especially when one is visiting four continents in various seasons and with various amenities. I asked myself the same thing many times in the year before our adventure. In truth, I still don't know what one should bring, but whatever we did managed to work just fine for us. At least it has worked so far, after all, we still have plenty of trip left.
I was going to write a list of everything we brought, but that would take a while. Instead I will just touch on a few things.
Clothing
- I would recommend bringing less than you think you will need. I have 4 tanks, 3 tees, 2 light longsleeves, and a heavier longsleeve. I also have 2 shorts (short and knee length), 2 capris, and 2 long pants (tights and linen). I would have brought 2 tanks and 2 tees, but multiple bottoms have been a necessity. In regular life I prefer the opposite, but the length for bottoms options have been lovely. One of my capris are leggings/tights which are so comfy to travel in, but the tightness isn't always the most appropriate option. I only wear the short shorts when I am hiking or at the beach.
Hygeine
- It is fairly obvious, but it is worth reiterating -- hand sanitizer is wonderful when traveling. We don't use it too often, but it definitely comes in handy when you do not have access to a clean water source.
- Also wet wipes. These are w.o.n.d.e.r.f.u.l. Really they are. I wouldn't travel without them.
Medications
- Most people know to take immodium with them when they travel, but I would also recommend bringing sennekot in case you run into the other issue. Also, I would only recommend taking immodium if dehydration is an issue or if you are taking a long bus ride. My policy is, if you have a decent enough bathroom then use it!
Gear
- Headlamps are a must, especially when headed to a third world country as power is less than reliable or non-existant.
- Organization Bags are also handy. We have some mesh ones and, of course, ziploc bags. They help keep our packs clean and easy to navigate.
- Compression Bags are also wonderful. I have all my tops in one and all my bottoms in another. I think Erik has all his clothes stuffed into one. When space is limited, as it is when you have a single pack to carry eberything in, compression bags are awesome!
What We Didn't Bring
These are things we wish we had brought. None are necessary, but they would make traveling a bit more pleasant.
- For starters, air fresheners. I am talking the bathroom spray. I brought these to Ghana but didn't think to pack them this time around. I am particularly fond of the neutralizing spray... The tiny, super powerful spray things. They are especially delightful when you have an exceptionally stinky room. Or when you can't flush toilet paper and are frequenting the bathroom. Or if you are prone to gagging every time you use a public poop hole. I wish I could remember the brand I love.
- I canot tell you the number of times I have wished I had Ikea clips like these. They would come in handy to seal off crackers or bread or rice or whatever else. Nobody likes stale, soggy, or spilt snacks in their bag.
- I wouldn't like using one at home because I love real books but if I were traveling for an extended time again I would bring a kindle. I have SO many books in my bag!
And that is all I have time for right now.
I was going to write a list of everything we brought, but that would take a while. Instead I will just touch on a few things.
Clothing
- I would recommend bringing less than you think you will need. I have 4 tanks, 3 tees, 2 light longsleeves, and a heavier longsleeve. I also have 2 shorts (short and knee length), 2 capris, and 2 long pants (tights and linen). I would have brought 2 tanks and 2 tees, but multiple bottoms have been a necessity. In regular life I prefer the opposite, but the length for bottoms options have been lovely. One of my capris are leggings/tights which are so comfy to travel in, but the tightness isn't always the most appropriate option. I only wear the short shorts when I am hiking or at the beach.
Hygeine
- It is fairly obvious, but it is worth reiterating -- hand sanitizer is wonderful when traveling. We don't use it too often, but it definitely comes in handy when you do not have access to a clean water source.
- Also wet wipes. These are w.o.n.d.e.r.f.u.l. Really they are. I wouldn't travel without them.
Medications
- Most people know to take immodium with them when they travel, but I would also recommend bringing sennekot in case you run into the other issue. Also, I would only recommend taking immodium if dehydration is an issue or if you are taking a long bus ride. My policy is, if you have a decent enough bathroom then use it!
Gear
- Headlamps are a must, especially when headed to a third world country as power is less than reliable or non-existant.
- Organization Bags are also handy. We have some mesh ones and, of course, ziploc bags. They help keep our packs clean and easy to navigate.
- Compression Bags are also wonderful. I have all my tops in one and all my bottoms in another. I think Erik has all his clothes stuffed into one. When space is limited, as it is when you have a single pack to carry eberything in, compression bags are awesome!
What We Didn't Bring
These are things we wish we had brought. None are necessary, but they would make traveling a bit more pleasant.
- For starters, air fresheners. I am talking the bathroom spray. I brought these to Ghana but didn't think to pack them this time around. I am particularly fond of the neutralizing spray... The tiny, super powerful spray things. They are especially delightful when you have an exceptionally stinky room. Or when you can't flush toilet paper and are frequenting the bathroom. Or if you are prone to gagging every time you use a public poop hole. I wish I could remember the brand I love.
- I canot tell you the number of times I have wished I had Ikea clips like these. They would come in handy to seal off crackers or bread or rice or whatever else. Nobody likes stale, soggy, or spilt snacks in their bag.
- I wouldn't like using one at home because I love real books but if I were traveling for an extended time again I would bring a kindle. I have SO many books in my bag!
And that is all I have time for right now.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
A Trip Further North
We spent just over a week in two villages in northern Laos -- Nong Khiaw and Muang Noi.
In Nong Khiaw our days were spent eating yummy food, reading, exploring the river and a cave, talking, and siting on the front porch of our bungalow. Our evenings were spent at a delightful little restaurant in town that played nightly movies, the two most notable being Forrest Gump and Good Morning, Vietnam. We had a nice rhythm in Nong Khiaw with three restaurants we ate at daily. We discovered a new dish that we enjoyed -- a sticky rice patty wrapped in an egg omelet.
Surprisingly delicious with a sweet chilli sauce. Two new dishes actually; Erik really loved this crushed olive sauce that we dipped sticky rice in. The dish was a bit sour for my liking, but it was alright.
In Muang Noi, a town an hour north of Nong Khiaw by river boat, we could be found lounging in hammocks, venturing through rice patties to a smaller town, swimming in a cave, reading, playing cards (cribbage and rummy), swimming in the river, eating at buffets and swatting bugs. It was surprisingly cool in the mornings and I would drag the duvet into the hammock with me until 11:00am because I was chilly.
Muang Noi was literally a street -- a single dirt road riddled with children, puppies, and chickens. The roosters made it impossible to sleep past 06:00, though I usually didn't manage beyond 05:30.
I have been a sleeping champion lately. I usually go to bed around 20:00 and wake up around 06:00. And, I nap most days. I don't know what my deal is, but I am so glad I am on vacation because sleeping feels oh-so-good. I am dreading going back to work and needing to be awake and functioning for twelve hours straight! Ugh.
One thing that has surprised me about traveling, though I suppose it shouldn't, is how important food is. I cannot tell you how much food affects our days. We are grumpy when we can't find good cheap food and are elated when it is plentiful. We have noticed that we sometimes enjoy a town solely because we found wonderful places to eat. These establishments range from the delicious Thai restaurant in Nong Khiaw (where we had Pad Prik Gaeng every night) to my little noodle soup lady on the street in Luang Prabang. We are on an increasingly tight budget so we are always on the look out for cheap, delicious, nutritious food that is preferably big enough to share. Or I am looking for Pad Thai -- that is always delicious.
We are going south tonight. On a night bus that gets into Vientiane around 05:00. We are being picked up at the fountain in the town center at 10:00 by friends of a friend. After I posted a few photos on facebook a friend emailed me saying that he has friends living in Laos and they happen to live in the city we are headed to next. They graciously offered to host us and we gladly took them up on the offer. So, that is where we are staying tomorrow night.
I believe we are making our way to Cambodia the day after that, though I could be wrong. There is a bus from Vientiane to Phnom Penh that takes 24 hours and we are thinking of taking it. Or we may stop in Pakse, a town in southern Laos where another friend of a friend lives. We need to be back in Bangkok on the 22nd to meet some friends (real life friends) so we have to figure out how long we want to spend in Cambodia.
But that is where we are at right now. If we do head to Cambodia right away then I am assuming you won't hear from me for a bit.
Hope you are well.
In Nong Khiaw our days were spent eating yummy food, reading, exploring the river and a cave, talking, and siting on the front porch of our bungalow. Our evenings were spent at a delightful little restaurant in town that played nightly movies, the two most notable being Forrest Gump and Good Morning, Vietnam. We had a nice rhythm in Nong Khiaw with three restaurants we ate at daily. We discovered a new dish that we enjoyed -- a sticky rice patty wrapped in an egg omelet.
Surprisingly delicious with a sweet chilli sauce. Two new dishes actually; Erik really loved this crushed olive sauce that we dipped sticky rice in. The dish was a bit sour for my liking, but it was alright.
In Muang Noi, a town an hour north of Nong Khiaw by river boat, we could be found lounging in hammocks, venturing through rice patties to a smaller town, swimming in a cave, reading, playing cards (cribbage and rummy), swimming in the river, eating at buffets and swatting bugs. It was surprisingly cool in the mornings and I would drag the duvet into the hammock with me until 11:00am because I was chilly.
Muang Noi was literally a street -- a single dirt road riddled with children, puppies, and chickens. The roosters made it impossible to sleep past 06:00, though I usually didn't manage beyond 05:30.
I have been a sleeping champion lately. I usually go to bed around 20:00 and wake up around 06:00. And, I nap most days. I don't know what my deal is, but I am so glad I am on vacation because sleeping feels oh-so-good. I am dreading going back to work and needing to be awake and functioning for twelve hours straight! Ugh.
One thing that has surprised me about traveling, though I suppose it shouldn't, is how important food is. I cannot tell you how much food affects our days. We are grumpy when we can't find good cheap food and are elated when it is plentiful. We have noticed that we sometimes enjoy a town solely because we found wonderful places to eat. These establishments range from the delicious Thai restaurant in Nong Khiaw (where we had Pad Prik Gaeng every night) to my little noodle soup lady on the street in Luang Prabang. We are on an increasingly tight budget so we are always on the look out for cheap, delicious, nutritious food that is preferably big enough to share. Or I am looking for Pad Thai -- that is always delicious.
We are going south tonight. On a night bus that gets into Vientiane around 05:00. We are being picked up at the fountain in the town center at 10:00 by friends of a friend. After I posted a few photos on facebook a friend emailed me saying that he has friends living in Laos and they happen to live in the city we are headed to next. They graciously offered to host us and we gladly took them up on the offer. So, that is where we are staying tomorrow night.
I believe we are making our way to Cambodia the day after that, though I could be wrong. There is a bus from Vientiane to Phnom Penh that takes 24 hours and we are thinking of taking it. Or we may stop in Pakse, a town in southern Laos where another friend of a friend lives. We need to be back in Bangkok on the 22nd to meet some friends (real life friends) so we have to figure out how long we want to spend in Cambodia.
But that is where we are at right now. If we do head to Cambodia right away then I am assuming you won't hear from me for a bit.
Hope you are well.
Sunday, March 24, 2013
On the Move.
We are on the move again. We are leaving Nong Khiaw and heading about an hour north, by river boat, to Muang Noi. I don't think there is anything to do up there, which we are both excited about.
I think we have come to a point in our travels where we are exceptionally conscious of our budget (friends are meeting us in about a month and we will want a little extra cash while they are here) and, as I said earlier, we are tired. We have just been using our time to mosey around, take walks, and do whatever we want. We are investing in ourselves and in each other and it is w.o.n.d.e.r.f.u.l! We have endless amounts of time to do whatever we please and it we are taking advantage of it.
How often do people get a chance to live without responsibility, time constraints, or appointments? How often are we able to "do nothing" all day long? That is exactly what we are doing and it is refreshing. Days that we "do nothing" are sometimes the most full and memorable days.
I am sure we will get back to being adventurous and being busy, but this is exactly what we need right now and we are savouring every moment.
Muang Noi has no internet and we are told it only has power from 19:00-22:00. That's why I felt the need to squeeze in this little post -- to update you and let you know you won't be hearing from us for at least a few days. We have no plans beyond getting on the boat so we could be back tomorrow or we could be back next week... who knows?
I hope you are all enjoying spring! It's one of my four favourite seasons. It even holds the number one spot for a quarter of the year.
Love from Laos!
I think we have come to a point in our travels where we are exceptionally conscious of our budget (friends are meeting us in about a month and we will want a little extra cash while they are here) and, as I said earlier, we are tired. We have just been using our time to mosey around, take walks, and do whatever we want. We are investing in ourselves and in each other and it is w.o.n.d.e.r.f.u.l! We have endless amounts of time to do whatever we please and it we are taking advantage of it.
How often do people get a chance to live without responsibility, time constraints, or appointments? How often are we able to "do nothing" all day long? That is exactly what we are doing and it is refreshing. Days that we "do nothing" are sometimes the most full and memorable days.
I am sure we will get back to being adventurous and being busy, but this is exactly what we need right now and we are savouring every moment.
Muang Noi has no internet and we are told it only has power from 19:00-22:00. That's why I felt the need to squeeze in this little post -- to update you and let you know you won't be hearing from us for at least a few days. We have no plans beyond getting on the boat so we could be back tomorrow or we could be back next week... who knows?
I hope you are all enjoying spring! It's one of my four favourite seasons. It even holds the number one spot for a quarter of the year.
Love from Laos!
Friday, March 08, 2013
Isle of Arran
One last Scotland post. This past weekend we went to Isle of Arran with Kurt and Erin. It is clear across Scotland and it took a whopping three hours to get there in the form of two trains and a ferry ride.
We rented a little cottage and settled in for a weekend of fellowship and fun. The sun was shining when we arrived in the late afternoon so we decided to go for a walk through the countryside around town. We walked to a castle overlooking the sea and continued on through the hillside. It was breath-taking and I continually reminded myself that I am so lucky! I didn't really need reminding, but I was intentionally grateful for each moment. We played rook late into the night. Kurt made me stay up until 22:30, which was a feat as I was ready for bed two hours earlier.
We had a relaxed morning before catching the bus that circulated the north end of the island. We stopped for a tour at the local distillery before making our way to the east and embarking on a three-hour walk along the seaside and up a... bluff. The Scottish have non-English names for everything and I am frequently confused. The sun didn't shine this day so it was a wee bit chilly, but we made do and the scenery was no less lovely. Again, our night was spent playing rook, a game which I just learned and am not very good at.
And on our last morning on Arran, we set off on yet another walk before making our way back home to Edinburgh.
The weekend was wonderful. It was great to spend time with our friends as they were both busy during the week. We were able to properly catch up and to have conversation that was both challenging and encouraging. I really miss having Kurt and Erin closer. They usually live in Vancouver, but seem to be galavanting around the world more often than not.
Arran was absolutely stunning, as was all of Scotland. Erik and I were both sad to leave, but we have hopes of visiting again in the probably-distant-future.
For now we are on to sunnier and sweatier things -- South East Asia.
We rented a little cottage and settled in for a weekend of fellowship and fun. The sun was shining when we arrived in the late afternoon so we decided to go for a walk through the countryside around town. We walked to a castle overlooking the sea and continued on through the hillside. It was breath-taking and I continually reminded myself that I am so lucky! I didn't really need reminding, but I was intentionally grateful for each moment. We played rook late into the night. Kurt made me stay up until 22:30, which was a feat as I was ready for bed two hours earlier.
We had a relaxed morning before catching the bus that circulated the north end of the island. We stopped for a tour at the local distillery before making our way to the east and embarking on a three-hour walk along the seaside and up a... bluff. The Scottish have non-English names for everything and I am frequently confused. The sun didn't shine this day so it was a wee bit chilly, but we made do and the scenery was no less lovely. Again, our night was spent playing rook, a game which I just learned and am not very good at.
And on our last morning on Arran, we set off on yet another walk before making our way back home to Edinburgh.
The weekend was wonderful. It was great to spend time with our friends as they were both busy during the week. We were able to properly catch up and to have conversation that was both challenging and encouraging. I really miss having Kurt and Erin closer. They usually live in Vancouver, but seem to be galavanting around the world more often than not.
Arran was absolutely stunning, as was all of Scotland. Erik and I were both sad to leave, but we have hopes of visiting again in the probably-distant-future.
For now we are on to sunnier and sweatier things -- South East Asia.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Yup, it is great.
Well hello there. I am currently sitting in the living room of some lovely friends shivering ever so slightly, but enjoying a hot cup of tea.
Scotland has been amazing. Not a single day has gone by that I haven't been overwhelmed with the beauty around me. I was very much looking forward to Scotland and it has been better than I anticipated. I don't want to jinx it, but the sun has been shining every day. Yes, it is cloudy a lot, but the sun has managed to fight its way through the clouds for at least a few hours each day. We also had a morning of snow, but we have yet to experience the delightful Scotland rain. I am sure it is inevitable so I am thanking God each day I wake up to something other than rain.
The weather, though it definitely makes exploring more inviting, is not the reason I have fallen in love with this beautiful country. As with all of Europe, Scotland is so full of history. With every step you take you are breathing in the rich history that is everywhere. Now, I am no history buff by any means, but I do love hearing the stories and seeing the sites. My skill for retaining such knowledge is unimpressive at best and embarrassing at worst, but I like to appreciate it while it is being delivered to my ever-welcoming ears.
The highlights of our time here, aside from seeing our dear friends, have been the unplanned and spontaneous adventures we have been on. The planned things are wonderful too, but it is the unexpected detours that have charmed me. For example, we were making our way to an exhibit at Loch Ness and we chose to follow a foot path on a three hour walk through the countryside to a wee waterfall. We had no idea the walk would take that long, but in the moment we decided it sounded intriguing so off we went.
Today we are planning on walking the Royal Mile here in Edinburgh. I am excited for that in itself, but I am interested to see what adventures we unexpectedly find ourselves on. The sun is shining and beckoning me outside even though I know I will be met with a bitter cold. I hope you are all asleep in your beds dreaming pleasant dreams.
Much Love,
Scotland has been amazing. Not a single day has gone by that I haven't been overwhelmed with the beauty around me. I was very much looking forward to Scotland and it has been better than I anticipated. I don't want to jinx it, but the sun has been shining every day. Yes, it is cloudy a lot, but the sun has managed to fight its way through the clouds for at least a few hours each day. We also had a morning of snow, but we have yet to experience the delightful Scotland rain. I am sure it is inevitable so I am thanking God each day I wake up to something other than rain.
The weather, though it definitely makes exploring more inviting, is not the reason I have fallen in love with this beautiful country. As with all of Europe, Scotland is so full of history. With every step you take you are breathing in the rich history that is everywhere. Now, I am no history buff by any means, but I do love hearing the stories and seeing the sites. My skill for retaining such knowledge is unimpressive at best and embarrassing at worst, but I like to appreciate it while it is being delivered to my ever-welcoming ears.
The highlights of our time here, aside from seeing our dear friends, have been the unplanned and spontaneous adventures we have been on. The planned things are wonderful too, but it is the unexpected detours that have charmed me. For example, we were making our way to an exhibit at Loch Ness and we chose to follow a foot path on a three hour walk through the countryside to a wee waterfall. We had no idea the walk would take that long, but in the moment we decided it sounded intriguing so off we went.
Today we are planning on walking the Royal Mile here in Edinburgh. I am excited for that in itself, but I am interested to see what adventures we unexpectedly find ourselves on. The sun is shining and beckoning me outside even though I know I will be met with a bitter cold. I hope you are all asleep in your beds dreaming pleasant dreams.
Much Love,
Friday, February 22, 2013
Scotland: We Have Arrived
This castle is right outside my window. I snapped this picture yesterday while searching for our hostel. I had a pack on my back and a bag on my front as I quickly snapped this en route. If this is what Scotland is going to be like then we are going to get along fine. Just fine.
A Day in Amsterdam
We only had a day to spend in Amsterdam. One day was certainly not enough!! Amsterdam was absolutely lovely. It was breath-taking both in beauty and temperature. I wore every single article of clothing I brought along. It was freeeeeeeeeeeezing!
We didn't want to stress ourselves out and try pack too much into a day so we took it easy. We walked downtown, escaping into every open shop to warm up along the way. We quickly found toques and mitts to purchase as I was nearing tears. I hardly took photos as my fingers were far too cold to be exposed.
Amsterdam is beautiful! It felt strange seeing a shopping mall or McDonalds in such lovely, historic buildings. I felt that every building should be a cute shop or a museum. I loved the canals, the bikes, the blue skies (yes, they were blue!), the scones, the cobblestone, the history and everything else.
The highlight of my day was definitely visiting the Anne Frank House. It was an incredibly humbling and touching experience. I had started writing a bit about here, but it got a bit out of hand so I will give it a separate post.
We spent most of our day walking the streets, moseying along the canals, and ducking into shops to keep warm. We did splurge and go on a candlelight cruise from 20:00 until 22:00. We sipped on wine and snacked on cheese while drifting through through Amsterdam's canals. It was lovely.
And then we walked the 30 minutes back to our hostel and went to bed. It sounds like we didn't do much, but it was a wonderful and relaxing day.
We didn't want to stress ourselves out and try pack too much into a day so we took it easy. We walked downtown, escaping into every open shop to warm up along the way. We quickly found toques and mitts to purchase as I was nearing tears. I hardly took photos as my fingers were far too cold to be exposed.
Amsterdam is beautiful! It felt strange seeing a shopping mall or McDonalds in such lovely, historic buildings. I felt that every building should be a cute shop or a museum. I loved the canals, the bikes, the blue skies (yes, they were blue!), the scones, the cobblestone, the history and everything else.
The highlight of my day was definitely visiting the Anne Frank House. It was an incredibly humbling and touching experience. I had started writing a bit about here, but it got a bit out of hand so I will give it a separate post.
We spent most of our day walking the streets, moseying along the canals, and ducking into shops to keep warm. We did splurge and go on a candlelight cruise from 20:00 until 22:00. We sipped on wine and snacked on cheese while drifting through through Amsterdam's canals. It was lovely.
And then we walked the 30 minutes back to our hostel and went to bed. It sounds like we didn't do much, but it was a wonderful and relaxing day.
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Back in Lima
You can't imagine how many blogs I have written in my head. I write them at the beach, on the bus, in bed, and walking down the street. I write them while I am eating, showering, swimming and reminding myself to shave (noted). Sometimes they are witty one-liners, sometimes it is just a story I want to share and sometimes it is pages of droning. I am sometimes impressed with my intelligence and wit, but I am usually humbled by how dull and uninteresting I can be. I have the best of intentions and I thoroughly enjoy blogging, but the wind is taken out of my sails as soon as I open this thing.
I am sitting on the roof of our hostel listening to the city awaken. Lima. It is probably my least favourite city. Definitely not a destination, it is merely the gateway to Peru. We have 36 hours here and I intend to make the most of it (now that I am done complaining... Sorry about that).
I have a friend from nursing school flying into Lima today. Her flight should be landing as I type this. We are staying at the same hostel and I am so very excited to see her. She is not only a friendly and familiar face, but also a peron I love. She may be one of the funniest people I know. Erik and I have prepared for her welcome by foregoing showers for the past five days. Gross.
I have yet to be homesick, but I do get peoplesick. Sometimes the distance feels greater or more real than others. I think about the people I love every single day. This is usually in the form of "Mandi would love to (insert fun activity here)” or "Lindsey would do fine with the twins here" or "Milena would think that (insert object here) was beautiful"... Etc etc. I often wonder how people are doing and what they are doing. I wonder who the little ones are becoming.
Erik is reading up on Scotland. Yes, we are planning ahead a bit....Europe requires it. We only have ten days there which is not nearly enough, but it will have to do.
I think that is about all I have to say right now. Unless you are interested in hearing about my nieces' most recent developments, but I know you aren't. Have a lovely Sunday!
I am sitting on the roof of our hostel listening to the city awaken. Lima. It is probably my least favourite city. Definitely not a destination, it is merely the gateway to Peru. We have 36 hours here and I intend to make the most of it (now that I am done complaining... Sorry about that).
I have a friend from nursing school flying into Lima today. Her flight should be landing as I type this. We are staying at the same hostel and I am so very excited to see her. She is not only a friendly and familiar face, but also a peron I love. She may be one of the funniest people I know. Erik and I have prepared for her welcome by foregoing showers for the past five days. Gross.
I have yet to be homesick, but I do get peoplesick. Sometimes the distance feels greater or more real than others. I think about the people I love every single day. This is usually in the form of "Mandi would love to (insert fun activity here)” or "Lindsey would do fine with the twins here" or "Milena would think that (insert object here) was beautiful"... Etc etc. I often wonder how people are doing and what they are doing. I wonder who the little ones are becoming.
Erik is reading up on Scotland. Yes, we are planning ahead a bit....Europe requires it. We only have ten days there which is not nearly enough, but it will have to do.
I think that is about all I have to say right now. Unless you are interested in hearing about my nieces' most recent developments, but I know you aren't. Have a lovely Sunday!
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
I Love Ecuador
I love Ecuador. I don't know if it is because we have settled into our traveling groove or because Ecuador is more lovely than Peru, but I really love Ecuador. We even spent the better part of a week in a hostel having less-than-enjoyable diarrhea.
Did you know that diarrhea is even worse when you can't flush your toilet paper? And did you know that it is even less pleasant when your wastebasket isn't cleaned daily? Well, I can attest to the fact that it is worse than just plain-old-North-American diarrhea.
Even with the scoots though, Ecuador is lovely. We have been to Guayaquil, Riobamba and Banos and had a good time in all of them.
Guayaquil was a very big city. It is the biggest city and Ecuador and it was... big. We walked along the river, ventured up to a lookout, and met some wonderful people at our hostel. We were only there for a day and a bit, but we will be returning in just under a month as we are catching the bus from Guayaquil to Lima, Peru (a 31 hour bus ride).
In Riobamba we visited a friend and former co-worker of Erik's. His family operates an orphanage in Riobamba so we spent a couple days playing with the kids and helping out where we could. It was wonderful to be in a family-like environment again, even if it was only for a few hours a day. It was also nice to talk to people who spoke English as a first language. Only two of the kids spoke English and none of the employees at the orphanage did so it was an adventure to try to communicate with them. Thankfully babies don't care if you understand them and they don't understand you anyway so I was ok most of the time.
We are currently in Banos and we have enjoyed the zoo, the hotsprings, go-karting down the highway and walking around town umpteen times. The weather has been less than stellar -- we were rained out on the go-karts and had to return earlier than anticipated -- but it is great here. We are surrounded by mountains on all sides. Banos is just a tiny town nestled in a little valley.
Tomorrow we are hoping to make our way to Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Erik tells me it is the second highest capital city in the world. I'm glad he likes fun facts like that because.... I don't. We don't have any plans beyond finding a hostel when we get there.
We have been traveling for just over a month. I can't believe it has been that long! And I can't believe we still have five months left!
Hope you are having a wonderful Tuesday!
Did you know that diarrhea is even worse when you can't flush your toilet paper? And did you know that it is even less pleasant when your wastebasket isn't cleaned daily? Well, I can attest to the fact that it is worse than just plain-old-North-American diarrhea.
Even with the scoots though, Ecuador is lovely. We have been to Guayaquil, Riobamba and Banos and had a good time in all of them.
Guayaquil was a very big city. It is the biggest city and Ecuador and it was... big. We walked along the river, ventured up to a lookout, and met some wonderful people at our hostel. We were only there for a day and a bit, but we will be returning in just under a month as we are catching the bus from Guayaquil to Lima, Peru (a 31 hour bus ride).
In Riobamba we visited a friend and former co-worker of Erik's. His family operates an orphanage in Riobamba so we spent a couple days playing with the kids and helping out where we could. It was wonderful to be in a family-like environment again, even if it was only for a few hours a day. It was also nice to talk to people who spoke English as a first language. Only two of the kids spoke English and none of the employees at the orphanage did so it was an adventure to try to communicate with them. Thankfully babies don't care if you understand them and they don't understand you anyway so I was ok most of the time.
We are currently in Banos and we have enjoyed the zoo, the hotsprings, go-karting down the highway and walking around town umpteen times. The weather has been less than stellar -- we were rained out on the go-karts and had to return earlier than anticipated -- but it is great here. We are surrounded by mountains on all sides. Banos is just a tiny town nestled in a little valley.
Tomorrow we are hoping to make our way to Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Erik tells me it is the second highest capital city in the world. I'm glad he likes fun facts like that because.... I don't. We don't have any plans beyond finding a hostel when we get there.
We have been traveling for just over a month. I can't believe it has been that long! And I can't believe we still have five months left!
Hope you are having a wonderful Tuesday!
Friday, January 18, 2013
{this moment}
{this moment} - A Friday Ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend!
Wishing you a wonderful weekend!
Thursday, January 03, 2013
How goes it?
I haven't been blogging as much as I thought I would (read: at all), but thankfully Erik has been. I miss this space though... I don't like the new space. So I will give a brief update.
I am still sick. I thought I was getting better for about a week. I was coughing less and my nose wasn't running. We even managed to do a three day hike. But now we are in Cusco and I can barely talk. I have a raspy man voice and I have been having to whisper because sometimes sounds don't come out otherwise. I constantly feel like I need to clear my throat. But I don't have a headache or anything... Just a sore, phlegmy throat, a cough, a running nose, and a man voice.
Traveling is wonderful. Budgeting for 6 months is not. But traveling is wonderful none-the-less. We were tourists the first few days -- traveling from one place to the next as quickly as possible. We were always busy and always spending money on something or other. I feel like we have become less like tourists and more like touring travellers (I don't know if that makes sense). We are traveling slower, having lazy days, and really enjoying the hustle and bustle around us.
The highlight of my trip so far has definitely been our trek in Canyon Del Colca. It was stunning and breathtaking (partly due to the altitude). The first two days were lovely but the third was a little less fun. We hiked what felt like straight up for two hours. It felt so nice to do a hike though. And the Andes are absolutely beautiful.
Sometimes it feels like we have been gone forever and other times it feels like it has been only a day. But it usually feels like a lot longer than it is. I think we just hit the two week mark. I am still at the point where I am acutely aware that I am "missing out" on life at home. There are a few sick babes at home and I would typically make sure to go help the mamas out, but I am a bit too far away. Prayers will have to suffice for now. I wonder if that will ever lessen - the wishing I could be in two places at once. Or the thoughts that I occasionally get that go along the lines of "is this really better than my life at home?". It isn't better than life at home as nothing could be better than that, but it is different and it is an awesome experience and it's only for a short while.
FaceTime has been wonderful to have. I have really only talked to my mom, but it is convenient to be able to call her cellphone from my iPad rather than waiting for someone to come on Skype. I have also managed to get ahold of Mandi through FaceTime and of Milena through Skype. Oh! And we talked to Erik's family at Christmas. Traveling certainly isn't the same as it was ten years back (or so I am told).
Well it is now 7am here... I should probably get up as we are catching public transit to a neighbouring town today. Hope this finds all of you well. And I hope that your sick children are on the mend.
I am still sick. I thought I was getting better for about a week. I was coughing less and my nose wasn't running. We even managed to do a three day hike. But now we are in Cusco and I can barely talk. I have a raspy man voice and I have been having to whisper because sometimes sounds don't come out otherwise. I constantly feel like I need to clear my throat. But I don't have a headache or anything... Just a sore, phlegmy throat, a cough, a running nose, and a man voice.
Traveling is wonderful. Budgeting for 6 months is not. But traveling is wonderful none-the-less. We were tourists the first few days -- traveling from one place to the next as quickly as possible. We were always busy and always spending money on something or other. I feel like we have become less like tourists and more like touring travellers (I don't know if that makes sense). We are traveling slower, having lazy days, and really enjoying the hustle and bustle around us.
The highlight of my trip so far has definitely been our trek in Canyon Del Colca. It was stunning and breathtaking (partly due to the altitude). The first two days were lovely but the third was a little less fun. We hiked what felt like straight up for two hours. It felt so nice to do a hike though. And the Andes are absolutely beautiful.
Sometimes it feels like we have been gone forever and other times it feels like it has been only a day. But it usually feels like a lot longer than it is. I think we just hit the two week mark. I am still at the point where I am acutely aware that I am "missing out" on life at home. There are a few sick babes at home and I would typically make sure to go help the mamas out, but I am a bit too far away. Prayers will have to suffice for now. I wonder if that will ever lessen - the wishing I could be in two places at once. Or the thoughts that I occasionally get that go along the lines of "is this really better than my life at home?". It isn't better than life at home as nothing could be better than that, but it is different and it is an awesome experience and it's only for a short while.
FaceTime has been wonderful to have. I have really only talked to my mom, but it is convenient to be able to call her cellphone from my iPad rather than waiting for someone to come on Skype. I have also managed to get ahold of Mandi through FaceTime and of Milena through Skype. Oh! And we talked to Erik's family at Christmas. Traveling certainly isn't the same as it was ten years back (or so I am told).
Well it is now 7am here... I should probably get up as we are catching public transit to a neighbouring town today. Hope this finds all of you well. And I hope that your sick children are on the mend.
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Friday, December 21, 2012
Made it.
We arrived at our hostel at 0400... four hours behind schedule. It is now noon and we have forced ourselves to get out of bed, chatted with the hostel worker, and are ready to explore Miraflores a bit. I am sure Erik will want to recount the events of last night, but I am far too lazy and it is not interesting enough; just your typical traveling woes. We are here, we are almost healthy (my cold is lingering), and we are happy. Delayed flights, late luggage and a lost cab driver haven't dampened our spirits.
Love from Peru.
Love from Peru.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
It's Official
It is official, we are on our way to Lima, Peru. We are sitting in Los Angeles waiting for,our next flight. Erik just spent $30 at an airport convenience store because he didn't see prices until he was at the till and it was "too late". Is that a boy thing? I think I will have to be in charge of the money on this trip.
How am I feeling? I have asked myself that many times and I don't really have an answer. It feels surreal. Leaving Vancouver this morning and thinking that I wouldn't be back until July was bizarre. I think the whole trip will feel surreal -- it is so out of the ordinary and I have never done anything like it. But it will be awesome and I am (or at last I will be) excited for it.
We have a hostel booked for three nights in Lima and we have no plans beyond that. I can't tell if I am thrilled or terrified by the thought, but I am just going to embrace it and enjoy myself. We are actually doing this! Crazy!
We will be in Lima next time you hear from us. I hope it is a tad bit warmer there than it is in this airport... I am freezing!
Fun fact: I found out Lindsey was pregnant a year ago today. That was the best Christmas present ever! And I found out she was having twins around me birthday. Fun, eh?
Have a lovely day.
How am I feeling? I have asked myself that many times and I don't really have an answer. It feels surreal. Leaving Vancouver this morning and thinking that I wouldn't be back until July was bizarre. I think the whole trip will feel surreal -- it is so out of the ordinary and I have never done anything like it. But it will be awesome and I am (or at last I will be) excited for it.
We have a hostel booked for three nights in Lima and we have no plans beyond that. I can't tell if I am thrilled or terrified by the thought, but I am just going to embrace it and enjoy myself. We are actually doing this! Crazy!
We will be in Lima next time you hear from us. I hope it is a tad bit warmer there than it is in this airport... I am freezing!
Fun fact: I found out Lindsey was pregnant a year ago today. That was the best Christmas present ever! And I found out she was having twins around me birthday. Fun, eh?
Have a lovely day.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
T-209hrs.
Erik and I will be leaving the country in 209 hours. I can't decide if 8.5 days or 209 hours sounds like more time, but I am wishing for just that, more time.
I love my life. I love my job (most days). I love my family. I love my friends. I love our little house. I love my friends' babies. I just love the way things are and I am so content... it feels like the wrong time to up-and-leave. But that's good, right? I have all these things to look forward to when we return.
I am excited about our trip. So very excited as it will be awesome! I'm interested to see how Erik and I work together on our travels and curious to see how we handle the stresses we encounter. I'm looking forward to the uncertainty of endless possibilities.
We don't have too much to do... Well, we have plenty to do, but things are coming along. The house is slowly being packed up. We are figuring out what we still need to purchase for our travels. We're organizing our things for easy accessibility in our packs. Some days I feel I can breathe. I'm a little less certain on other days. But we're surviving and enjoying our time left here as much as possible.
I'm squeezing in as many newborn baby snuggles as I can manage, reveling in the joy and hilarity of my 4-month-old nieces, enjoying a very serious Gus Gus, and eating up the love and attention of my favourite two-year-olds.
I'm sick too. Missed both my day shifts... I won't have to work another of those for six months. Being sick has greatly cut into my small-children time -- we went to Lindsey's for pizza last night and I didn't even get to hold or smooch the girls.
Hoping I get better because I realllllyyy don't want to miss work tomorrow. I love my girls there and need to (need to) say goodbye! Also, the income doesn't hurt.
209 hours folks. That's all!
I love my life. I love my job (most days). I love my family. I love my friends. I love our little house. I love my friends' babies. I just love the way things are and I am so content... it feels like the wrong time to up-and-leave. But that's good, right? I have all these things to look forward to when we return.
I am excited about our trip. So very excited as it will be awesome! I'm interested to see how Erik and I work together on our travels and curious to see how we handle the stresses we encounter. I'm looking forward to the uncertainty of endless possibilities.
We don't have too much to do... Well, we have plenty to do, but things are coming along. The house is slowly being packed up. We are figuring out what we still need to purchase for our travels. We're organizing our things for easy accessibility in our packs. Some days I feel I can breathe. I'm a little less certain on other days. But we're surviving and enjoying our time left here as much as possible.
I'm squeezing in as many newborn baby snuggles as I can manage, reveling in the joy and hilarity of my 4-month-old nieces, enjoying a very serious Gus Gus, and eating up the love and attention of my favourite two-year-olds.
I'm sick too. Missed both my day shifts... I won't have to work another of those for six months. Being sick has greatly cut into my small-children time -- we went to Lindsey's for pizza last night and I didn't even get to hold or smooch the girls.
Hoping I get better because I realllllyyy don't want to miss work tomorrow. I love my girls there and need to (need to) say goodbye! Also, the income doesn't hurt.
209 hours folks. That's all!
Saturday, December 08, 2012
Jansen's Go To Mexico
My parent's had their 40th anniversary this year. What better way to celebrate than to spend a week at an all-inclusive in Mexico?? We were going to go with just the kids and our spouses, but then Lindsey went and had twins this summer and Jonathan's wife is pregnant and so so sick so we went added two babies, went without a SIL, and added a family friend. Oh ya! I haven't even shared that Jon and Courtney are pregnant!!!
Jonathan and Courtney are pregnant!! They're due on May 26, 2013! Courtney has been in and out of the hospital as she has hyperemesis gravidarum (severe debilitating nausea and vomiting), but baby is healthy and mama is hopefully starting to feel better. Due to her condition (the hyperemesis gravidarum, not the pregnancy) Courtney couldn't travel with us.
Oh! I don't think I've mentioned that Erik's sister is also pregnant! She's due May 25, 2013. So Erik and I will have two new babies waiting to meet their favourite Auntie and Uncle when we get home!
Back to Mexico. There was a grand total of 20 of us and we had a fabulous time! We went to Puerto Vallarta and stayed at Velas Vallarta. I'm told it was a small resort, but I'd never been to an all-inclusive so I had nothing to compare it to. It may have been small, but it was perfect for us because you want to be able to find people easily when you go with such a large group. The last week of November was the perfect time to go too because the resort was all-but-deserted. We had a suite on the ground floor right by the pool so Lindsey could put the girls down and take the baby monitor pool-side. It was awesome!
The week was spent lounging by the pool, eating way to much food, playing tennis, jumping waves in the ocean (read: being beaten by the ocean, drinking so much salt water that two of my brothers puked), reading, playing tennis/ping pong/beach volleyball/water volleyball, playing cribbage, chatting, laughing, snuggling sweet little babes, and enjoying everyone's company.
I love my nieces and nephews dearly, but it was nice to just have adults there. It's sometimes nice to just be us. No one had to entertain children, worry about kids running off, deal with tantrums or boredom. We just got to enjoy each other's company.
Lindsey's vacation wasn't as relaxing as the rest of ours, but she enjoyed herself too. Her girls did so well! They are now 4 months and are easy going little ladies so they slept poolside or in their playpen. They had many aunties and uncles who doted on them.
I enjoyed hanging out with my family, having no responsibility, eating when I wanted, drinking as many strawberry smoothies as I wanted, and snuggling with those babes to my heart's content (are there ever enough snuggles though?).
It was just a wonderful time.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
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My mind is far too busy to form complete and articulate thoughts. I feel as though our trip is sneaking up on us -- there is still so much planning to do! We are keeping our itinerary bare, but there are still so many decisions we need to make and things we need to book. Scotland needs to be booked in full before we go. I need to have a chat with Lynnagin about Australia (or many chats rather). I have a couple friends who have traveled around South East Asia that I am hoping to meet up with. I have to make an appointment at the travel clinic to see if we need any vaccinations. We need to decide what to pack and what we still need to buy (which seems like so many things).
We are leaving in 10 weeks.
My dear friend, Milena, is due in 8 weeks so I am essentially a write off after that. I plan on spending as much time as possible with her and that little baby.
My family is taking a trip to Mexico in 6.5 weeks so I really only have 6.5 weeks to finish up our planning and most of our decision making. Oh boy.
We are leaving in 10 weeks.
My dear friend, Milena, is due in 8 weeks so I am essentially a write off after that. I plan on spending as much time as possible with her and that little baby.
My family is taking a trip to Mexico in 6.5 weeks so I really only have 6.5 weeks to finish up our planning and most of our decision making. Oh boy.
Friday, October 05, 2012
it's official.
Flights are booked. Semi-world Tour -- here we come!
Want a rough outline? If not, stop reading here.
We have decided to see South America and South East Asia. Well, parts of both as it would be impossible to see everything. We are also doing a little stop over in Scotland to visit some dear friends of ours and then, when my loving husband comes home, I will be making my way to Australia to visit Lynn and to travel around a bit (money depending).
Oh! Before I continue I feel it important to announce that I received a Leave of Absence from work!!! I applied for it thinking it would never (and I do mean never) happen. But, this means that at least half of our family will have work when we return to Kelowna. I am so relieved! It takes a weight off my shoulders and gives us a guaranteed income for when we get home (Erik is leaving his job before we go). My manager approved it yesterday and since then I have been doubly excited for this trip.
Back to the rough outline.
South America
- Nine Weeks.
- Fly in and out of Lima, Peru.
- Hoping to see Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and Columbia.
- We are predicting that most of our time will be spent between Peru and Ecuador.
Scotland
- Two Weeks.
- At a bit of an added cost we decided to fly through Europe rather than Asia.
- You see, we have good friends in Scotland and we would love to see them.
- Flying into Amsterdam and taking a ferry (probably) to Scotland.
- Maybe a few days in Amsterdam before heading to Kurt and Erin's.
- Maybe a road trip to Ireland.
South East Asia
- Thirteen Weeks.
- We haven't thought about this one much. I'm hoping to meet with a co-worker who lived there for a while.
*At this point, Erik will return home to go fishing in Alaska and I will continue on solo.
Australia
- Three weeks.
- That's a long time.
- Stay at Lynn's.
- Maybe travel alone a bit.
- Maybe convince Lynn to travel a bit with me.
As I have said before, and I'm sure I will say again, any and all advice is greatly appreciated.
Doesn't it sound exciting? I can't believe it is actually happening -- we are actually leaving on this grand adventure. It is surreal and, like my trip to Africa, it probably won't hit me until part way through the actual trip. I am so excited though!
Leaving December 20, 2012.
Many more updates to come.
Want a rough outline? If not, stop reading here.
We have decided to see South America and South East Asia. Well, parts of both as it would be impossible to see everything. We are also doing a little stop over in Scotland to visit some dear friends of ours and then, when my loving husband comes home, I will be making my way to Australia to visit Lynn and to travel around a bit (money depending).
Oh! Before I continue I feel it important to announce that I received a Leave of Absence from work!!! I applied for it thinking it would never (and I do mean never) happen. But, this means that at least half of our family will have work when we return to Kelowna. I am so relieved! It takes a weight off my shoulders and gives us a guaranteed income for when we get home (Erik is leaving his job before we go). My manager approved it yesterday and since then I have been doubly excited for this trip.
Back to the rough outline.
South America
- Nine Weeks.
- Fly in and out of Lima, Peru.
- Hoping to see Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and Columbia.
- We are predicting that most of our time will be spent between Peru and Ecuador.
Scotland
- Two Weeks.
- At a bit of an added cost we decided to fly through Europe rather than Asia.
- You see, we have good friends in Scotland and we would love to see them.
- Flying into Amsterdam and taking a ferry (probably) to Scotland.
- Maybe a few days in Amsterdam before heading to Kurt and Erin's.
- Maybe a road trip to Ireland.
South East Asia
- Thirteen Weeks.
- We haven't thought about this one much. I'm hoping to meet with a co-worker who lived there for a while.
*At this point, Erik will return home to go fishing in Alaska and I will continue on solo.
Australia
- Three weeks.
- That's a long time.
- Stay at Lynn's.
- Maybe travel alone a bit.
- Maybe convince Lynn to travel a bit with me.
As I have said before, and I'm sure I will say again, any and all advice is greatly appreciated.
Doesn't it sound exciting? I can't believe it is actually happening -- we are actually leaving on this grand adventure. It is surreal and, like my trip to Africa, it probably won't hit me until part way through the actual trip. I am so excited though!
Leaving December 20, 2012.
Many more updates to come.
{this moment}
{this
moment} - A Friday Ritual. A single photo - no words
- capturing a moment from the week. A simple,
special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to
pause, savor and remember.
Wishing you a lovely weekend!
True Story.
Wishing you a lovely weekend!
*** *** ***
Picture us buying tickets for our grand adventure.
True Story.
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