What's up from Harlem!

Yes, this message comes to you from the lovely neighbourhood of Harlem on the island of Manhatten. I am back in New York City but at a different hostel: this time round I am in Harlem. But before you start wondering whether that is a good idea, I tell you, it is! I needed to get out of the bustle of Manhatten and Harlem is just what I needed. The hostel is located in 118th street so it is in the gentrified area of Harlem, so safe. But I still get a good feel for the heartbeat of Harlem: the smells (all good), the people (diverse) and the urban culture (different from my older neighbourhood back home).

Oh, I feel like so much has happened since I last posted. So I have point form notes that I may follow (hoep that's alright):

1. In Boston, I spent a great day with Coralee and the girls, Morgan and Jayden, exploring Harvard and Boston. It was a beautiful day and so much more relaxed than from the prior day's madness. Ended at Fenway where I got a ticket... here I come Fenway Park! That was so exciting: I had my Red Sox cap and my ticket in hand and was ready for the magic of Fenway. And it was amazing. Now, I don't really know very much about baseball but it was so amazing to be in Fenway and amongst the devoted fans. But I did secretly cheer for the visiting team, the Toronto Blue Jays. Oh, my grandpa would be proud! Top of the 8th Tropical Depression Danny hit and the sky opened up over Boston. I thought that when the tarp was pulled over the field and the stands were emptying, the game was over. So masterfully I pushed my way through the massive crowd, manouvered my way onto the train (got the last spot on the train... the bottom stair with the doors almost pinching my butt) and made it out for my ride home within 90 minutes. Pretty good. And then I found out the game resumed after an hour. Boston wins. Pretty amazing experience regardless.

2. Bus ride back to New York City through heavy rain from Danny: well, let's just say I was really glad I didn't have to drive 4.5 hours in a Tropical Depression. Arrived in NYC to fog and average temps... all good for me. Quick nap at the hostel before I am off to my next big event.

3. NFL game at Meadowlands: Okay, so I thought I was excited about the game. But I got so elated the closer I got. The train rides to get out to Jersey were fun: friendly banter between NY Giants and NY Jets fans. Unfortunately, I just happened to wear a green shirt so a Giants fan thought I was a Jets fan. I put my sweater on and told him wrong: I am a Steelers fan! The second I saw the stadium I was over the moon! Lost my umbrella (not allowed in the stadium) but had an amazing seat. Corner section, upper level but first row on the end. Nobody to block my view and squish me. I was a huge fan before and that was just on TV... games are so much better live! Of course because the two New York teams were playing there was a lot of crowd razzing and unfortunately it did turn ugly right beside me but the State Troopers were there immediately so no major distractions. Loved the game! Jets 27 - Giants 25 (I know, what!!??). Sanchez played well. Last two minutes, it started to rain. No umbrella but who cares, I just saw my first live NFL game! Made it back to Harlem at 12.30am... let's just say that was an adventure (I wasn't scared but I was anxious). Harlem is still Harlem, regardless of what NY state tries to do.

4. Finally, a morning to sleep in. But this is NYC so not very long before I am up and out. Today I took the Hop-On Hop-off bus tour through Downtown (was alright) and then the Brooklyn Tour. Man , that is where I should have stayed and seen first. That completely changed my attitude. Like Harlem, Brooklyn has a fierce spirit and amazing heart! The people are diverse, proud, community-based and full of life. And I definately prefer that over the "me, me, me" attitude of Manhatten. Hopefully I can get back over there before I leave. At least walk the Brooklyn bridge! By the time I finished the tour and saw the Museum of Modern Art, I had time to call home (Thanks Mommy and Daddy for the talk) and then catch the Night Tour. And I have to admit, Manhatten skyline at night is beautiful! It was a good day in NYC (finally!) so hopefully I can carry that over to tomorrow.

Well, I only have one full day left in NYC and so much to do (that I feel obligated to do considering I already paid for the tickets!). But I feel much better about my stay in NYC.

Chat with you all later! Love, Lisa

Some pics from the USA

Photo from the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia



View from Philadelphia Museum of Art



Rocky statue at Museum of Art



Elfreth's Alley in Philadelphia (oldest street in Philly)



Liberty Bell in Philadelphia



In Baltimore - crossing stingrays



Inner Harbour in Baltimore



JFK Grave at Arlington Cenetary in Virginia



Arlington cemetary in Virginia (just across the river from Washington, DC)



Salads Jamie and I made: that's the heirllom tomato salad and the watermelon onion salad. Delicious!



Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC



Washington Monument in Washington DC



The Mall and the Washington Monument



Capitol in Washington, DC

A little piece of heaven...

I absolutely LOVE Boston area. I got in yesterday and was greeted by the Craig family. So excited to see them again and to have a friendly place to stay. We went right to the North End for dinner. We went to a famous pizza joint (Regina's Pizza) and it was incredible: not the best service but that is not what they are known for, it is the pizza. And it is so delicious... close to what I had in Naples! Then we went to Mike's Bakery for dessert: I had been warned and I was so impressed. Amazing italian pastries...again, not great service but who cares?

Today I ventured into Boston. My feet are killing me but it was a great day. I did the complete Freedom Trail: a path through Boston which goes to all the major historical sights in the area. It was long but I was able to see so much and experience the dynamic neighbourhoods and interesting people of Boston. Oh, I fell in love with this city! My favourite neighbourhoods were the North End (the Italian area) and Beacon Hill, the posh but architecturally stunning area. Oh, if I only had money!! I just wandered throughout the city, absording all the sights, sounds and smells (all positive!). A great view of the city was from the Prudential City Skywalk: a 360 view of the city from 50 floors up. Downtown, Financial District, different neighbourhoods and of course Fenway Park. What a view!

So obviously I love this area. And I was so glad to leave New York: this is more my style. Although, a redeeming quality of New York is Broadway. I did go to a broadway show on my last night. I went to see "Avenue Q": so amazing! Muppets for an adult crowd but so relavent and true. My first broadway and I was hooked. If only it was cheaper (or free).

So, I feel great and am looking forward to tomorrow in Boston. Maybe a Red Sox game at Fenway? I'll keep you posted.

Love, Lisa

P.S. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!!! I LOVE YOU!

Well, I am in New York City

And yet again, my expectations and hopes were way too high. Thankfully the Greyhound bus ride was safe and relatively comfortable (I had heard horror stories) and I got into New York yesterday. And right away my senses were overwhelmed: millions of people, disgusting smells from the sewers, I saw my first rat (I have a terrible, paralyzing fear), a sticky sweaty heat and just so much going on! After dropping my bags, I headed out and walked to Times Square. That place is insane: so many people and lights and advertising. New York is definately all about money and status and having things... everything that I am not about this year. I just wanted to get out of there so I walked to the United Nations Headquarters. That was alright (tours were sold out but I got to see some displays). By then I was just exahusted and felt awful so I made the long walk back to the hostel. I will not do that again. It was such a long walk and in the heat, I was just disgusting. Definately will use the metro from now on.

Last night, I just stayed in. I didn't feel like doing anything. I did meet some great people (some Aussies who gave me lots of tips and ideas for my travels). But I just didn't want to be in New York. I felt completely dehumanized: there are so many people everywhere, all with a purpose that makes you feel like you do not have one. They are not as friendly as I had hoped. And I have never felt more alone (this is worse than Europe!). It was a rough day yesterday. But I hoped it would turn around today.

I was up at a decent hour and walked through the southern part of Central Park. Now, that is a beautiful place in the midst of the chaos and development of New York (Manhatten). Then I went to the Metropolitan Museum of Art: so much to see and just not enough time in the day. Then, off to the Empire State Building. What a view! Now that was a cool thing to do. But again, it just reimforced the magnitude of the buildings... there are so many and they just extend to all reaches. And it just oozes wealth and upper class. You definately have to have money to live or visit this city... hard for a girl on a budget.

So, I just wanted to give you an update. Don't worry, I will be fine. I leave for Boston tomorrow! But I have to run, I am meeting an Aussie in Times Square (Yuck!) and hopefully we can get some tickets for a Broadway show tonight. I'll let you know how it goes.

Ciao.

Love, Lisa

Philly: some final thoughts

Hey y'all! I leave Philly tomorrow and just wanted to update you.

Right away, I was loving this city! It is pretty clean, well laid out and people are really friendly. This morning, almost every person I passed said "Good Morning Darling. How you doin'?". Awesome! I managed to see the major sights in a day and a bit. By the time I got in on Saturday, I was beat and ended up chatting with a girl who just finished Oz. I was pretty exhausted from the night before. I didn't end up going out because the sky opened up and it absolutely poured all evening. Damn Hurricane Bill! But I still managed to stay up until 3am with some boys at the hostel.

Anyways, I digress. Philly, well lots to see and rain was not going to coop me up. It had a mysterious and haunting quality with pouring rain and flooding streets. That was last night. Today, fabulously hot and humid weather! And I thought it was going to rain so I wore my jeans... not a good idea! But I walked to the Rodin Museum (I just can't get enough) and then ran the famous Rocky steps. Not as many as I thought and I could still breathe when I got to the top... sweet! After the museum, I went to jail. Well, actually it was a penitentiary, Eastern State Penitentiary to be exact. Closed in 1971, it has not been maintained and is a decrepit but awesome building. Very well thought out and a lot of freedom to just walk around! Just a note: Al "Scarface" Capone lived well!

My other mission in Philly was to try some Philly Cheesesteak and I have the results. I managed to eat two Cheesesteaks (I know, doesn't seem like a lot) but it was all I needed. First one was from Campo's: Cheesesteak with Provolone cheese and onions. Verdict: Meh! Was not what I expected and was a little disappointed. But was satisfactory. Second was from the hostel staff recommended joint, Jim's on South Street: Cheesesteak with whiz cheese and onions. Verdict: better than Campo's but again, not what I wanted. Both had dry beef, not enough cheese and plain buns. Again, I think my expectations were a little too high! I know what some may be saying, "What about Pat's?". Well, I was told by a few native Philadelphians that Pat's is overrated. So I opted to try a local spot. Maybe I should have ventured out to Pat's. At this point, I was sad and upset that Philly's food was a bust. And then I remembered a restaurant Jamie and I had seen on the Food Network, Buddakan. They have Dip Sum Doughnuts... so I went to check it out (fate? It's a block away!). Verdict: YUMMY! It consisted of amazing doughnuts (better than Tim Horton's... yeah, I went there :) and three dippers: berry jam, ginger cream, and dark chocolate ganache. I was in heaven! And it definately made up for the lack of good food in Philly the rest of the time.

So my trip to Philly wasn't a bust. It was a safe and friendly city, clean and full of character. And Buddakan.

So, I am off for New York City tomorrow. So excited!

Love you all, Lisa

What a day!

I felt like a child again! I went to the National Aquarium today and got the ultimate experience. And it was worth it! There are so many amazing creatures: sting rays, big fish, small fish, turtles, crocodiles, sharks, dolphins, etc... So cool. I spent hours wandering around the facility. The temporary exhibit was the Australian outback... oh, so excited to see the real thing! Then I went to a 4D movie on Shallow seas. That was a hoot: the seat poked you in the back when a creature jumped out at the camera, sprayed water in your face when a whale splashed, blew air when flying above, bubbles and snow... oh, it was incredible. I was laughing along with the children and it felt great! And, I also got to see the dolphin show, and sat in the splash zone! Overall, it was a great time and made me feel so happy!

This morning I went on a tour of the Baltimore Basilica. It is across the street from the hostel and was alright. Just sad that again, a wealthy church with homeless people sleeping on it's steps. And after the Aquarium, I ventured out to Lexington Market and maybe I was a few blocks too far. I thought it would be a fresh food market. Instead, it had sandwich and pre-cooked food. They were chaining the doors closed just as I tried to leave. And I was the only white woman for 4 blocks. I wasn't worried but just felt out of place. Maybe it was all the chains and protective covers over shop windows. Needless to say, I got back on the Charles street and went to the supermarket for my dinner. Mozzarella and Tomato salad and hummus with veggies... a light fare, exactly what I want. I had a large lunch: Chipotle shrimp and crab soup, crab cake sandwich with slaw and fries, and cheesecake. Yummy!

So, it has been alright. I leave for Philly tomorrow so I get to sleep in! I might need it because I feel like going out tonight. Now, I just need to find some companions!

Talk to you from Philly!

Love, Lisa

Baltimore... hmmmmmm

First Impression: what am I doing here?
After walking away from Penn Station: okay, this is better.
Getting to the hostel: sweet digs and decent neighbourhood.
After exploring: Inner harbour is cool and has lots of great places. But I definately don't need more time than I have allowed.

Just to alleviate any concerns people might have, I am in the downtown area. All the places I am going will be in the Inner Harbour where there are plenty of police and Tourist security officers. I will not be venturing into the residential neighbourhoods to buy cocaine or crack or heroin. So, no worries.

I'll keep you posted but there is a line for the computer growing.

Love you all,
Lisa

Baltimore, here I come!

This time, off to Baltimore, MD. This was my plan all along, just a few days later. Plans for Baltimore, explore the inner harbour and find amazing food! Shouldn't be hard, right?

So my time in Washington DC is quickly drawing to an end. And what an experience it has been. I have loved staying with Jamie and Farley and Asia. It has been fun, relaxing and just what I wanted. The last few days, I tried to fit a lot in. But there is so much to see in DC, definately another trip is necessary. One of the best expenditures I had was a 48 hour ticket on the Open-top Hop on hop off City sightseeing bus: I was able to see the major sights everyday and it was a fun and easy way to get around the city in the heat. It got unbearable at times, and we even had an alert for the weather... TOO HOT! It got to about 39 celcius in the heat of the day! Makes you pretty sluggish.

So, what else did I see? I went to the National Gallery of Art a second time to see sculpture. I can now say with certainty that my favourite sculptors are Rodin and Bernini, and my fav painter is Monet. Absolutely divine! I also went to Arlington Cemetary, the major cemetary for those who served their country. What a powerful place: it reminded me of the American Cemetary in Normandy where it was just waves of graves as far as the eye could see. And I again, I struggled to come to terms with what it meant. So much loss... I did see JFK's grave which was very sombre and peaceful. And the Tomb to the Unknown soldier was beautiful. But the whole site was so large it would take hours to see the memorials.

I also went on the bus out to Georgetown, a sleepy town with a lot of great shops and restaurants. But the heat was unbearable so I stayed on the bus and just looked from above. Hmmm, what else? Oh, I also visited more museums (go figure!). The National Archives was nice... lots of great history. But the lines to see the major documents (Declaration of Independence, etc) was long so I bypassed it.

Yesterday, I visited the Holocaust Museum. I was torn. It was a powerful display of history and was shocking and depressing and very moving. I just wish that there was a museum that was inclusive of all groups targeted and affected by the oppression and malice of the Nazi Regime. When in Germany, I visited Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site and I think that was the most inclusive representation of the people affected by the Nazis Reign of Terror. German political adversaries were the first to be sent to Concentration camps followed by many other groups. So, after a very difficult few hours, I needed something to lighten up so I visited the Museum of African Art. Maybe one of my favourites in DC. Small but so interesting. Then it was off to the Botanical Garden: what a delight!

So yesterday had it's emotional moments. But in the evening, Jamie and I went to see "Julie and Julia". A great choice for two women who love food! Then we searched for a place for dinner before driving by the Mall at night. Everything looks amazing at night (oh, but the White House is not lit... I thought it would be!).

It has been a wonderful trip to DC and I definately would come back. But now I have to pack and get ready for Baltimore. And I guess, finally set out on my own. It has been nice to have a home tocome back to, and the comfort associated with that and a friendly face. But I think the sooner I get out on my own, the sooner I will feel like I am travelling. It hasn't really hit me yet that I will be away for so long, all by myself. It still feels like a little visit with a friend. Now the challenge of looking out for myself begins. Hopefully, I remember how to do this!

Talk to you from Baltimore!

Love, Lisa

Lovin' DC

Hey everyone,

I am having a great time in Washington DC. So much so that I have changed my plans (I should have known not to book anything!). I have had three amazing days filled with friendship, beauty and food! It has been great having someone I can spend time with in the evenings (Jamie has had to work to get ready for school) but the freedom to just do whatever in the daytime.

I had a great first day exploring the downtown area (as noted in my previous post) and yesterday was superb! Jamie and I went to the Eastern Market... oh, we are so bad when we are together in a fresh food market (in a good way!). Jamie found a few items that she fell in love with in the actual market before we headed into the fresh food market. Just as in France, we decided a market dinner was called for. So here is what we had (just a warning: this may (hopefully) encourage you to make yourself):
1. Cubed Watermelon with slivers of onion and crumbled feta, drizzled with olive oil, salt and pepper
2. Heirloom tomatoes (red, purple, yellow and green) with basil and black truffle salt
3. Fresh fig with unripened fresh goat cheese wrapped in prosciutto and drizzled with hazelnut honey
4. Fresh farm bread
5. Cheese platter: aged cheddar, double cream, Manchego all with apricot preserves, and blue cheese with pear
6. For dessert, sweet potato pie with maple whipped cream and raw sugar sprinkled on top
AMAZING!!! It was better than the Michelin-starred meal we had in France! And even better, we have enough for tonight as well!

As you can tell, I am loving my time in DC and that is why I have changed my plans. I had originally planned on leaving in Tuesday and spending 3 nights in Baltimore and Philadelphia each. But I know that I will no have enough time in DC and that 3 days is too much in Baltimore and Philly, so today, hopefully I can rearrange the plans I made (reservations). If not, oh well, I am still staying longer.

The weather in DC has been incredible... not always in a good way. When I first arrived, I humidity hit me like a Mike Tyson punch! And it has been hot and humid ever since. Because I do not know Fahrenheit conversion, I am not sure what it has been every day, but todays forecast is 94 which is 34 celcius. At times, it can be unbearable to walk in the heat. But it's better than rain and snow! Plus, I figure my body is getting acclimatized for Australia.

So, I will be in DC for a few more days and then it will be off again. I am feeling much better now that I am seeing things! I do love this travel thing!

Lisa

Hello from Washington, DC

Well, I have been here a few days now and it has been an emotional rollercoaster. I barely got any sleep the night before I left (lots to do before I left). So the day of travel was exhausting: 4.00am start, 8.00am flight, arrived in DC at 5.00pm, saw Jamie at 6.15pm. A long day of travel!

Plus I was battling mixed feelings. I was happy that I have the opportunity to travel but was struggling with excitement. I was worried that my expectations for this trip are not reasonable. I had such an amazing time in Europe and worried that USA and Australia won't live up to it. Crazy thoughts but when I am travelling from one place to another, that is when I always do my best thinking. So, I came to the realization that every place is unique and I just have to embrace the opportunities.

And I am having a great time in DC. Jamie has been a great host (along with Farley and Asia, her two pugs!). I had a great sleep and got started in Washington. Yesterday I first saw the Supreme Court building and then the Library of Congress. That was such a cool building: lots to see and it was also air conditioned! It is so hot and humid in DC and I was out in the heat of the day. A few hours in the Library of Congress was a relief! But then I started my walk at the Capitol and walked down the Mall. So many people and so many buildings of interest. I only stopped in at the National Gallery of Art (A/C welcomed!). It was a long walk to the Washington Monument but what a view! Spectacular! Instead of heading towards the Lincoln Memorial, I walked to the White House. You don't get very close and it was interesting to see the security in place: the roof was covered with Secret Service agents!

So once I walked all the way back home (a lot further that I thought) I had to sit and let my body rest for a bit... not use to all the walking. Hopefully, my body will get used to it again. Then Jamie and I searched for a restaurant that didn't have 90 minute wait time and then struggled with parking. Eventually, success. We went to a great tapas restaurant. And then I experienced a city like none other I have seen. For some reason, I thought that because Washington is the capital city and has a lot of government offices, it would have very little crime. Not really the case: there is a large disadvantaged population which unfortunately leads to a lot of crime. And stereotypes and racism run rampant. I realized that I have lived a pretty sheltered life before this year. Don't worry, I feel safe but I feel sad when I see disadvantaged people living up to the stereotypes and not rising above their situation. For some reason, I thought New York would be like what I am seeing now.

Today we will go the the Eastern Flea Market and then I will continue at the Mall. But I must get ready now, so talk to you all later.

Love, Lisa

Less than 44 hours to go...

... and I am freaking out! I am packed (finally!) and can't think of anything else I need. I thought it would be easier to pack this time, and that I would fit everything I need for 5 months into my backpack. Last time I was away for 4 months and it was brutal. I became a bag lady and definately did not like carrying 75 pounds worth of luggage on my back! (Hmmm, I guess I can sort of relate to the donkey and camels I rode... poor animals!) Let's just say I was shocked a few days ago when I tried to fit my pile of "necessities" into my bag. Why is it that my brain thinks everything should fit into a relatively small pack and I should have extra space in my bag... All I am taking is a backpack! And I am gone for 5 months! But magically I have fit everything into my backpack and it feels so light (probably because I haven't worn it in a while!). I do have to thank my Mom for her brilliant idea of getting rid of the bulk... the bulky toiletries bag.

So I have packed my bags, started to say my goodbyes, and working on last minute issues. At times it feels surreal that I will be leaving for 5 months. I had such a remarkable experience in Europe that at times I think it was all just a dream. But my expereinces were better than I ever could have imagined. And I cannot wait for the rest.

So in a few days, I fly from Edmonton to Washington, DC in the United States of America. I will be staying with a friend I met in France, Jamie. I am so excited to see Washington... there is so much history and culture. Definately a highlight already! From there, I will be travelling by bus to Baltimore (I know, I will be careful. I will not be wearing any Pittsburgh Steelers items... as my Mom said "they are 'Raven' lunatics"). Then it is off to Philadelphia where I hope to have an amazing Philly Cheesesteak (it's always about the food!). Then off to New York City... crazy, loud, busy and I will be right in the middle of it (really, I am staying in Columbus Circle Hostel). After a few days, I will be in Boston to visit with a family I knew from work. It will be great to see them again. But then I have to get back to NYC... I have a ticket to a NFL game. Just in case you haven't guessed, I am absolutely in love with the National Football League! My team is the Steelers but I love watching any team play. So I will be seeing the preseason game between New York Jets and New York Giants. It will probably be the only game I see the whole season (that will be so weird!), but at least I get home in time for playoffs... Go Steelers!

As you can tell, I am so excited for my trip to the Northeast USA. Got to just throw myself back into the travelling thing...

So, farewell to Edmonton and everyone I will be leaving. A few messages before I leave: enjoy the rest of summer, Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and have fun in the snow! And I will see you all in January! Don't worry, I will be keeping up the blog while I am away so definately follow along!

Talk to you next from Washington!

Love, Lisa

So much to do... so little time!

"It's the final countdown... dodo do do... dodo do do do..." That song has been in my head all day. I have 10 days before I leave! Ahhhhh! I am feeling exactly how I did before I left in February: anticipation, nervousness, stressed, unprepared, a little scared, excited, thinking I am crazy for doing this alone! I feel like I lost whatever mojo I had going a few months ago. Back then, it felt so natural to be travelling alone in foreign countries with just a backpack. (Okay, so maybe it was more like a backpack and a dayback and a purse and a side bag, but it wasn't much!) I felt so comfortable and confident in myself. And now that I have been home for a few months, I feel like I lost it. Hopefully, once I land on foreign soil (first up, the United States) I will hit my stride and feel like I did in June. That was such an amazing feeling!

It's been a little stressful (okay, a lot stressful!) the past few days. For some reason, Australia seems so daunting to me: it is so big, there are so many places to see, and so many amazing things to do. And because I have wanted to go to Australia since I was a little girl, I am putting so much pressure on myself to have the best trip possible with no stress and no glitches. But I guess I can't plan too much - I did that for Europe and abandoned all the plans within the first week in Greece.

One of the things I have been contemplating was a trip up to Southeast Asia. I thought it would be cool (Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam... come on, that would be awesome!) and even found a tour that would be reasonable. But the flights... they are ridiculous! I would be flying for at least 20 hours each way and they were pretty expensive. So I guess that trip will have to wait for another time. But now that I have nixed those plans, I can focus on Australia and New Zealand.

My plans for Northeast United States are falling in to place. That will be such a cool trip. Washington, DC: packed full of unique and amazing sights. Baltimore: beautiful and rough city. Philadelphia: cheese steaks, say no more. New York: a one-of-a-kind city. Boston: maybe I'll blend in with my "Bostonian" accent. Yes, I was told I sound like a Bostonian (crazy!). I might even see an NFL game live in New York (sadly, it will probably be the only game I will see the whole regular season). It will be a packed and overwhelming experience for sure. And that suits me just fine.

Oh, just an update on my health. As I mentioned earlier, I thought I had anemia again and was waiting on blood results. Well, they came back fine. So who knows what caused me to feel so bad a few weeks back. I do feel better but now I have done something to my back. I had physio today and my Sacro Ilial joint is messed up... yeah (sarcasm). Hopefully 10 days is enough to heal that. I do have to carry a backpack! But nothing is going to stop me from travelling: I was born to do this!