How´s that for an interesting title? ha! you know it´s getting bad when I´m beginning to think I´m witty.
So here I am in Raykjavik, Iceland. Yesterday I snorkled through the gap between the two technonic plates that are separating here in Iceland, the North American and the Eurasia. I find that oddly symbolic, don´t you?
Today I rode an Icelandic horse through ancient lava fields, (more than 8000 years old) still jagged and rough and therefore considered 'young´. I´m turning 29 in a few days... so I suppose I should still consider myself young as well.
There is an enormous indy music festival here right now, people have come from all around the world to see it. My hostel is hopping as we speak, with a spunky blond pair singing upbeat music with interesting lyrics in the middle of the front common area. Just a few minutes ago it sounded like a marching band. I like these girls better.
Tomorrow I head to the Blue Lagoon Spa for a day in the hot springs and a two hour massage care of my Mummies (THANK YOU!!). I have this time to reflect and make plans.
Odd how after a trip like this a person can feel so different, yet so much the same.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Sunday, October 10, 2010
On to Scandinavia
Still with me, eh?
I write today from Oslo, Norway. It's beautiful here, and feels a lot like home. After FINALLY getting my pack back (2 days later), I took an overnight ferry here to Oslo. The trees are stunning gold and oranges and reds, the day today was sunny and crisp. Honestly, it made me miss home. I also had an odd side effect, which was the desire for someone to admire it with me. Though I have missed all of you during these last almost-two months, I have really enjoyed the freedom of travelling on my own again. Of living on my own schedule, seeing the things I want to without having to compromise, seeking social interaction when it suits me and enjoying the silence when that suits me instead. Perhaps its a sign that I'm almost ready to rejoin proper society again... or perhaps I still need more potty training, who knows?
A word on Copenhagen. What a wonderful city! From a sustainability perspective they are miles and miles ahead of the rest of us. Wind turbines dot the hills and sea scapes and don't even garner a second look from locals because they're so normal to see. This has resulted in Denmark leading the world in both it's percentage of energy consumption coming from renewables (20%) and Denmark becoming the recognized world leaer in wind turbine technology, bringing significant jobs to the country. Extensive cleanup efforts of it's previously toxic harbour has resulted in a revitalized harbour area in which residents can fish and swim and again brought a significant number of jobs to the area.
Who says sustainability will hurt our economies?
I stayed with a friend of a friend named Mikkel, a wonderful host and person who kindly showed me around the city, lent me his cat for morning of play, and helped give me direction for my next steps as I continue to pursue my calling. It was a wonderful and much needed change from the many hostels and repeated conversations, "where are you from? where are you going? where have you been?" That litany makes me tired, again telling me it's about time for me to come home. Mikkel and I had interesting conversations about urban planning , sustainability, and how on earth Danes pronounce those three funny vowels they have, among others. It was a pleasure.
Thoughts of home have started seeping into my brain... in fact i wrote my first to-do list today. (dear god). I also started a list of things that I have learned about myself during this time away. Perhaps when it is finished I will share it, perhaps I won't (under my promise of no 'too much information' posts... which I hope I have upheld.)
Anyway enough babbling (clearly THAT hasn't changed), I'm off. Iceland next, and last, then home next Sunday. Very soon.
A
I write today from Oslo, Norway. It's beautiful here, and feels a lot like home. After FINALLY getting my pack back (2 days later), I took an overnight ferry here to Oslo. The trees are stunning gold and oranges and reds, the day today was sunny and crisp. Honestly, it made me miss home. I also had an odd side effect, which was the desire for someone to admire it with me. Though I have missed all of you during these last almost-two months, I have really enjoyed the freedom of travelling on my own again. Of living on my own schedule, seeing the things I want to without having to compromise, seeking social interaction when it suits me and enjoying the silence when that suits me instead. Perhaps its a sign that I'm almost ready to rejoin proper society again... or perhaps I still need more potty training, who knows?
A word on Copenhagen. What a wonderful city! From a sustainability perspective they are miles and miles ahead of the rest of us. Wind turbines dot the hills and sea scapes and don't even garner a second look from locals because they're so normal to see. This has resulted in Denmark leading the world in both it's percentage of energy consumption coming from renewables (20%) and Denmark becoming the recognized world leaer in wind turbine technology, bringing significant jobs to the country. Extensive cleanup efforts of it's previously toxic harbour has resulted in a revitalized harbour area in which residents can fish and swim and again brought a significant number of jobs to the area.
Who says sustainability will hurt our economies?
I stayed with a friend of a friend named Mikkel, a wonderful host and person who kindly showed me around the city, lent me his cat for morning of play, and helped give me direction for my next steps as I continue to pursue my calling. It was a wonderful and much needed change from the many hostels and repeated conversations, "where are you from? where are you going? where have you been?" That litany makes me tired, again telling me it's about time for me to come home. Mikkel and I had interesting conversations about urban planning , sustainability, and how on earth Danes pronounce those three funny vowels they have, among others. It was a pleasure.
Thoughts of home have started seeping into my brain... in fact i wrote my first to-do list today. (dear god). I also started a list of things that I have learned about myself during this time away. Perhaps when it is finished I will share it, perhaps I won't (under my promise of no 'too much information' posts... which I hope I have upheld.)
Anyway enough babbling (clearly THAT hasn't changed), I'm off. Iceland next, and last, then home next Sunday. Very soon.
A
Friday, October 8, 2010
the ancients and the bikes
So here I am in Copenhagen. After an all too brief stop in ancient Malta (ruins from 3000BC), I flew to Copenhagen, where I am staying with a friend of a friend who has been absolutely wonderful. I wish I had had more time in Malta.. there was something about that place that called to me.
Copenhagen, however, is a fabulous place! Hope of Hans Christen Anderson and the oldest Monarchy in the world, as well as the country with the greatest percentage of renewable energy (40% now) and a goal to be 100% renewable by 2020, this place is one of grand plans and good people. Like Amsterdam, there are a HUGE number of bikes (though I must be getting more savvy, because I had no near-misses today as I wandered), and the transportation systems and urban planning methods are second to none that I've ever seen. I love the of this city, though the reservedness of is people makes me pause before I say something overly stupid to a stranger.
Tomorrow Mikkel, my kind host, will take me on a bike tour of the city before I hop on an overnight ferry to Oslo, Norway. But first, I have to get my freaking backpack from the stupid Swiss Air people who appear to have all the time in the world to deliver it. Yes, that means I have had no clothes, no medicine, no toothbrush... urgh. Not bitter in the slightest.
As of today it is 9 days before I come home. I can't believe how fast it has gone and how much I am missing you all. Check out the Italy pics here, and enjoy. For those IBMers... take a minute and take a look. About half way through I guarentee you'll laugh if you read the captions.
Italy: share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8Abt2rFw3Yt2FT
Much love, and see you all soon,
Allison
Copenhagen, however, is a fabulous place! Hope of Hans Christen Anderson and the oldest Monarchy in the world, as well as the country with the greatest percentage of renewable energy (40% now) and a goal to be 100% renewable by 2020, this place is one of grand plans and good people. Like Amsterdam, there are a HUGE number of bikes (though I must be getting more savvy, because I had no near-misses today as I wandered), and the transportation systems and urban planning methods are second to none that I've ever seen. I love the of this city, though the reservedness of is people makes me pause before I say something overly stupid to a stranger.
Tomorrow Mikkel, my kind host, will take me on a bike tour of the city before I hop on an overnight ferry to Oslo, Norway. But first, I have to get my freaking backpack from the stupid Swiss Air people who appear to have all the time in the world to deliver it. Yes, that means I have had no clothes, no medicine, no toothbrush... urgh. Not bitter in the slightest.
As of today it is 9 days before I come home. I can't believe how fast it has gone and how much I am missing you all. Check out the Italy pics here, and enjoy. For those IBMers... take a minute and take a look. About half way through I guarentee you'll laugh if you read the captions.
Italy: share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8Abt2rFw3Yt2FT
Much love, and see you all soon,
Allison
Saturday, October 2, 2010
vini, vidi, vici...and then I left for Capri
...where was I last?
Oh yes, Lucca and Florence, then Rome. Bella, bella, bella.
Lucca, the quiet verson of beautiful Florence. I loved both, spent my days wandering and eating fabulous pasta (odd, since I rarely eat pasta at home). Then off to Rome, where I came, I saw, and I conquered (if I may quote my old friend Julius.) I wandered through the Colsseum, the Vatican and Ballista, and took a walking tour of the city. I loved the combination of the old and the new, paricularly the area that is still being excavated and is now a cat sanctuary in the meantime.
The Vatican... wow, what can I say? For someone like me who is not Catholic, or even Christian, it was more of a study of a culture and religion that has had such a tremendous impact on ancient and modern society. I marvelled at the richness of the sculptures, buildings and paintings, appreciating for the first time why people pay so much money for this stuff. I watched devout Christians follow their practices of crossing themselves with holy water and eating the cookie (ok, I know I just pissed off a few Catholic friends here... no offense meant, I just cant remember what its called). And I was struck by the depth of their devotion, the smiles on their faces. It reminded me that it doesnt matter what religion you are, it matters what that religion encourages you to become.
Tonight Im in a hotel in Capri. Now, for those of you that have never backpacked, there is no apt metaphore for the happiness I feel right now knowing I have clean sheets, a tv, and my own bathroom. Seriously. Up until now, perhaps youve forgotten, I have been living with at least 5 other people in a room, showering with flip flops on, and listening to other people snore at night. Tonight is pure bliss. Dinner was the best Ive ever had, and I wandered through the Piazza watching children chase each other, yelling things in Italian with glee. A woman walked through the center carrying a stack of full pizza boxes with the Virgin Mary printed on the tops. This place simply could not get any more Italian if it tried.
Additional picutures added here (Brussels): share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8Abt2rFw3Yt2E1
And more (Paris, Switzerland): share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8Abt2rFw3Yt2FC
I hope life is well for all of you, and you know Im not too far away to hear of your trials and successes.
Much love,
A
ps - apostrophe doesnt work, and neither does spell check... at least for english. you all are discovering here what a terrible speller I am :)
Oh yes, Lucca and Florence, then Rome. Bella, bella, bella.
Lucca, the quiet verson of beautiful Florence. I loved both, spent my days wandering and eating fabulous pasta (odd, since I rarely eat pasta at home). Then off to Rome, where I came, I saw, and I conquered (if I may quote my old friend Julius.) I wandered through the Colsseum, the Vatican and Ballista, and took a walking tour of the city. I loved the combination of the old and the new, paricularly the area that is still being excavated and is now a cat sanctuary in the meantime.
The Vatican... wow, what can I say? For someone like me who is not Catholic, or even Christian, it was more of a study of a culture and religion that has had such a tremendous impact on ancient and modern society. I marvelled at the richness of the sculptures, buildings and paintings, appreciating for the first time why people pay so much money for this stuff. I watched devout Christians follow their practices of crossing themselves with holy water and eating the cookie (ok, I know I just pissed off a few Catholic friends here... no offense meant, I just cant remember what its called). And I was struck by the depth of their devotion, the smiles on their faces. It reminded me that it doesnt matter what religion you are, it matters what that religion encourages you to become.
Tonight Im in a hotel in Capri. Now, for those of you that have never backpacked, there is no apt metaphore for the happiness I feel right now knowing I have clean sheets, a tv, and my own bathroom. Seriously. Up until now, perhaps youve forgotten, I have been living with at least 5 other people in a room, showering with flip flops on, and listening to other people snore at night. Tonight is pure bliss. Dinner was the best Ive ever had, and I wandered through the Piazza watching children chase each other, yelling things in Italian with glee. A woman walked through the center carrying a stack of full pizza boxes with the Virgin Mary printed on the tops. This place simply could not get any more Italian if it tried.
Additional picutures added here (Brussels): share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8Abt2rFw3Yt2E1
And more (Paris, Switzerland): share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8Abt2rFw3Yt2FC
I hope life is well for all of you, and you know Im not too far away to hear of your trials and successes.
Much love,
A
ps - apostrophe doesnt work, and neither does spell check... at least for english. you all are discovering here what a terrible speller I am :)
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
A Gastronomic Tour of Tuscany
...of my own personal invention.
I am in Lucca for 2 days, headed today for a day trip to Florence. Lucca is stunning, a medival town surrounded by a 12ft stone wall. It feels very geninue here, the people slightly annoyed by tourists but still kind enough as long as you don't bucher their language (As I do). I like that... that tourists are not catered to (or taken advantage of). I'm staying in a stunning hostel which was converted from an old nunnery. Their are gorgeous high ceilings, huge rooms with couches to lounge in. I feel very comfortable here.
Florence is a short ride away by fast train, so I will explore the city everyone tells me I need to visit for a day knowing I come home to my quiet Lucca tonight. Tomorrow it's off to Rome before the rail strike for 2 days of busy busy picture and tour taking.
Hope all is well at home...
A
ps- as for my title... I don't think there's anything else to say. The food.... oh, the food....
I am in Lucca for 2 days, headed today for a day trip to Florence. Lucca is stunning, a medival town surrounded by a 12ft stone wall. It feels very geninue here, the people slightly annoyed by tourists but still kind enough as long as you don't bucher their language (As I do). I like that... that tourists are not catered to (or taken advantage of). I'm staying in a stunning hostel which was converted from an old nunnery. Their are gorgeous high ceilings, huge rooms with couches to lounge in. I feel very comfortable here.
Florence is a short ride away by fast train, so I will explore the city everyone tells me I need to visit for a day knowing I come home to my quiet Lucca tonight. Tomorrow it's off to Rome before the rail strike for 2 days of busy busy picture and tour taking.
Hope all is well at home...
A
ps- as for my title... I don't think there's anything else to say. The food.... oh, the food....
Monday, September 27, 2010
How could I have forgotten that the down is not any easier than the up?
Those hikers in the house know what I'm talking about.
First, to set the scene: It's laundry day, so I'm sitting here in my suit writing to you all. I look out the window and see an old church tower, with the ocean stretching behind it. It rained about an hour ago, and now the sky has opened up and the sun shines through, like an enormous window to something even more beautiful.
I am in Cinque Terre, one of Italy's National Parks, which consists of 5 small towns that run along a protected coastline. The hiking here is stunning, and the towns are quaint with great food (and gelato!) with many benches to sit and admire the view. After a very long day on the train yesterday and a night at a very dodgy hostel last night, I was thrilled to find a new hostel today and head out to hit the trails. I am pleasantly tired now, ready for my laundry to finish so that I can head out for a nice dinner now that the rain has stopped.
The thing that has really struck me today is the reminder of those very simple pleasures in life. It is one of my favourite parts of travelling (not vacationing, but travelling). Suddenly a nice hot shower, a dry place to stand for a few minutes, or a shared room with no snorers becomes an absolute blessing. It's amazing the things we take for granted at home, and the things we (I) let irritate me. Travelling brings me back to appreciating those little things, it makes life so much simpler. Is there something (or someone?) that you take for granted? Take a moment to enjoy it. Just one moment. Your life will be so much richer for it.
First, to set the scene: It's laundry day, so I'm sitting here in my suit writing to you all. I look out the window and see an old church tower, with the ocean stretching behind it. It rained about an hour ago, and now the sky has opened up and the sun shines through, like an enormous window to something even more beautiful.
I am in Cinque Terre, one of Italy's National Parks, which consists of 5 small towns that run along a protected coastline. The hiking here is stunning, and the towns are quaint with great food (and gelato!) with many benches to sit and admire the view. After a very long day on the train yesterday and a night at a very dodgy hostel last night, I was thrilled to find a new hostel today and head out to hit the trails. I am pleasantly tired now, ready for my laundry to finish so that I can head out for a nice dinner now that the rain has stopped.
The thing that has really struck me today is the reminder of those very simple pleasures in life. It is one of my favourite parts of travelling (not vacationing, but travelling). Suddenly a nice hot shower, a dry place to stand for a few minutes, or a shared room with no snorers becomes an absolute blessing. It's amazing the things we take for granted at home, and the things we (I) let irritate me. Travelling brings me back to appreciating those little things, it makes life so much simpler. Is there something (or someone?) that you take for granted? Take a moment to enjoy it. Just one moment. Your life will be so much richer for it.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
The art of doing nothing...
Some people have it. That wonderful ability to simply... well, just be. Time slips away, and they literally do nothing at all for long stretches at a time.
I don't.
Today I'm attempting the art of doing nothing, and frankly sucking at it. The rain has prevented my canyoning, any hiking in these beautiful Swiss Apls, cable car rides (can't see anything) or anything else I deem interesting. Someone much smarter than myself once said that one can be defined by how a person handles flight delays, rainy days, and long lineups. Apparently patience and 'the art of doing nothing' are not on my long list of many virtues.
I don't.
Today I'm attempting the art of doing nothing, and frankly sucking at it. The rain has prevented my canyoning, any hiking in these beautiful Swiss Apls, cable car rides (can't see anything) or anything else I deem interesting. Someone much smarter than myself once said that one can be defined by how a person handles flight delays, rainy days, and long lineups. Apparently patience and 'the art of doing nothing' are not on my long list of many virtues.
Friday, September 24, 2010
who ever said that bigger was better?
So the whole point of this little European tour has been to search out Sustainability at its finest. I realize that I've told a lot of silly stories and talked for an inordinate amount of time about food, but I haven't said much about this sustainability stuff.
I'm reading "A Geography of Hope", by Chris Turner, a Canadian who decided to tour the world in search of sustainability at its finest in hopes of encouraging the replication of ideas that already exist, and already work. I have read about industrial symbiosis (where various factories use each other's 'waste' as inputs, like steam or chemical byproducts), mixed use living (the very opposite of suburbia), sustainable energy, houses as power plants (aka decentralized power generation where each house is 'power positive' and sells its excess energy back to the grid each month), biomimicry (copying nature since it has had millions of years of evolution to get it right), and the idea that smaller is better (autonomous decision making units acting independantly in their own self interest but governed by a higher body's thoughtful and deliberate steps, ie: independant power generators like wind turbine owners who invest confidently in technology because they are guarenteed a specific rate from electricty utilities).
I digress: that was the longest sentence I've ever written.
Back to my point. I have seen some of these concepts in action already. Their basis is so sound, so obvious, that I wonder why more people haven't gotten it yet But tonight, tonight I am not frustrated or discouraged, as I (we) can sometimes get when facing the same frustrating paradigms, the same thoughtless marching forward. Tonight I am inspired.
And world, watch out. Inspiration is a powerful thing.
I'm reading "A Geography of Hope", by Chris Turner, a Canadian who decided to tour the world in search of sustainability at its finest in hopes of encouraging the replication of ideas that already exist, and already work. I have read about industrial symbiosis (where various factories use each other's 'waste' as inputs, like steam or chemical byproducts), mixed use living (the very opposite of suburbia), sustainable energy, houses as power plants (aka decentralized power generation where each house is 'power positive' and sells its excess energy back to the grid each month), biomimicry (copying nature since it has had millions of years of evolution to get it right), and the idea that smaller is better (autonomous decision making units acting independantly in their own self interest but governed by a higher body's thoughtful and deliberate steps, ie: independant power generators like wind turbine owners who invest confidently in technology because they are guarenteed a specific rate from electricty utilities).
I digress: that was the longest sentence I've ever written.
Back to my point. I have seen some of these concepts in action already. Their basis is so sound, so obvious, that I wonder why more people haven't gotten it yet But tonight, tonight I am not frustrated or discouraged, as I (we) can sometimes get when facing the same frustrating paradigms, the same thoughtless marching forward. Tonight I am inspired.
And world, watch out. Inspiration is a powerful thing.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
I don't know a single word in German
Bern... so beautiful!! I sat under a tree today and ate Swiss chocolate (more on that in a minute) and read about mixed use city planning and urban remodernization (sustainability concepts translated into english as 'cities laid out as they were before we all decided we needed cars and walmart and suburbia.) I realized as I sat there a startling conclusion: this is one of the reasons I love Europe! Me, the suburban queen who hates Toronto (except when I visit Dana & Chad or K & Cor, of course), loves the walk-able cities!
Now, Bern is certainly no exception to that. Its hilly-ness makes up for all the swiss chocolate I'm eating... which is a lot because these Swiss... man, they know their chocolate!! (Dare I say, even moreso than the Belgians, who seem to want to put hazelnuts in everthing.) I spent the day wandering the streets, getting ready for Interlaken, and deperately trying not to spend any money. I swear this is the shopping capital of the world... though much to my dismay the exchange rate is NOT 10:1 as I thought it was... more like 1:1. whoops. My dreams of a swiss watch to replace the one I lost in Amsterdam (boo) went out the door with that news.
much love,
Allison
ps ....FINALLY pictures:
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8Abt2rFw3Yt2Ek
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8Abt2rFw3Yt2EX
Now, Bern is certainly no exception to that. Its hilly-ness makes up for all the swiss chocolate I'm eating... which is a lot because these Swiss... man, they know their chocolate!! (Dare I say, even moreso than the Belgians, who seem to want to put hazelnuts in everthing.) I spent the day wandering the streets, getting ready for Interlaken, and deperately trying not to spend any money. I swear this is the shopping capital of the world... though much to my dismay the exchange rate is NOT 10:1 as I thought it was... more like 1:1. whoops. My dreams of a swiss watch to replace the one I lost in Amsterdam (boo) went out the door with that news.
much love,
Allison
ps ....FINALLY pictures:
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8Abt2rFw3Yt2Ek
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8Abt2rFw3Yt2EX
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
sin, salvation, belgian waffles and crepes
Wow what a time it's been!!
Amsterdam is officially one of my favourite cities in the world. Aside from it's general reputation for its liberal laws, the people are genrally wonderful and make a girl feel like anything is possible, and everything is cool (no matter how weird and wacky it might be) The only exception: almost getting my butt kicked by a prostitute in the red light district for accidently taking a photo from the wrong direction, then having a pleasant conversation with a police man about it during which time i was sure i would be arrested. All ended well, andmy new American friend and I continued on our evening.
Afeter Amsterdam came Brussels, where I wandered their small and beautiful city quite peacefully, recovering from my previous indulgences. I met a boy from Brussels who showed me the sights and we had my first rather fun conversation en francais. I think I'm pretty good!! though a long way from bilingual. I lived off Belgian waffles (omg, i'm going to be making them for the girls when i return).
Then off to Paris, where I am now for a few more hours before leaving for Bern, Switzerland. Paris is beautiful. I was just having a very pleasant conversation en francais with an older Parisain while eating my crepe in a pretty little park built in the 1800s; This was shortly after a walk through the Catacombes, which were built in the 1700s and are full of Parisian bones, stacked high and organized in almost pretty walls accented with skulls. Mostly it comes across as a super creepy setting for a bad horror film. Pictures of this soon, I promise.
Next off to Bern for a day, then Interlaken where I will hike and engage in all sorts of adenture activities. Maybe skydiving (finally) or hanggliding again... who knows. Then Cinque Terre qt K & Cor's suggestion for 3 days of hiking and then on to Rome. I can't describe how much I love it here. My restlessness is fed by the constant movement to new cities, in search of new adventures.
I hope you all are well...
much love, Allison
ps forgive typos... keyboards are very different here and i've got a train to catch soon!!
Amsterdam is officially one of my favourite cities in the world. Aside from it's general reputation for its liberal laws, the people are genrally wonderful and make a girl feel like anything is possible, and everything is cool (no matter how weird and wacky it might be) The only exception: almost getting my butt kicked by a prostitute in the red light district for accidently taking a photo from the wrong direction, then having a pleasant conversation with a police man about it during which time i was sure i would be arrested. All ended well, andmy new American friend and I continued on our evening.
Afeter Amsterdam came Brussels, where I wandered their small and beautiful city quite peacefully, recovering from my previous indulgences. I met a boy from Brussels who showed me the sights and we had my first rather fun conversation en francais. I think I'm pretty good!! though a long way from bilingual. I lived off Belgian waffles (omg, i'm going to be making them for the girls when i return).
Then off to Paris, where I am now for a few more hours before leaving for Bern, Switzerland. Paris is beautiful. I was just having a very pleasant conversation en francais with an older Parisain while eating my crepe in a pretty little park built in the 1800s; This was shortly after a walk through the Catacombes, which were built in the 1700s and are full of Parisian bones, stacked high and organized in almost pretty walls accented with skulls. Mostly it comes across as a super creepy setting for a bad horror film. Pictures of this soon, I promise.
Next off to Bern for a day, then Interlaken where I will hike and engage in all sorts of adenture activities. Maybe skydiving (finally) or hanggliding again... who knows. Then Cinque Terre qt K & Cor's suggestion for 3 days of hiking and then on to Rome. I can't describe how much I love it here. My restlessness is fed by the constant movement to new cities, in search of new adventures.
I hope you all are well...
much love, Allison
ps forgive typos... keyboards are very different here and i've got a train to catch soon!!
Friday, September 17, 2010
Amsterdam is exactly what I pictured
...and then some.
The next 3 days will be censored... will write when I get to Brussles on Sunday!
(yes mom, I promise I will be safe)
The next 3 days will be censored... will write when I get to Brussles on Sunday!
(yes mom, I promise I will be safe)
Thursday, September 16, 2010
2 new realizations
Internet kiosks at airports are ripoffs.
I'm a genius.
With 1.12seconds left of time... my 'client' was very pleased with my suggestions and consulting effort! Now I'm off to Amsterdam for some fun.
cheerio!
I'm a genius.
With 1.12seconds left of time... my 'client' was very pleased with my suggestions and consulting effort! Now I'm off to Amsterdam for some fun.
cheerio!
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Finally comfortable in my own skin
I feel good. Really good. This weekend was all about hiking in the Lake District, which is the most beautiful part of England that I've seen so far. 18k yesterday (if I include the bit where I got lost, as expected) of mountains and lakes and waterfalls. Toss in an ancient stone circle and some very odd looking cows and you've got yourself a great day. After William (the new name of Liz's GPS) took me through the scenic route I arrived back in Birmingham early enough to catch a free open-square concert in the downtown with some decent bands.
This week is the end of my time in the UK, so I'm in full logistics-planning mode as I get ready to continue my journey. Pictures coming soon, I swear.
My favourite song right now: Happiness by The Fray
"Happiness is like the old man told me
Look for it, but you'll never find it all,
Let it go, live your life and leave it
Then one day wake up, and she'll be home"
This week is the end of my time in the UK, so I'm in full logistics-planning mode as I get ready to continue my journey. Pictures coming soon, I swear.
My favourite song right now: Happiness by The Fray
"Happiness is like the old man told me
Look for it, but you'll never find it all,
Let it go, live your life and leave it
Then one day wake up, and she'll be home"
Friday, September 10, 2010
"No longer lend our strength to that which we wish to be free from...." (Jewel)
How much of our energy is spent each day, day in and day out, on things that simply do not matter? Things that do not nourish us as humans. Things that do not add any value, in the truest sense of the word, to our families, our communities, our societies, or ourselves.
When was the last time you lived an entire day for you? The last time you woke with passion and felt driven by something larger than yourself? Something that made you feel connected to the rest of the world in a way so fundamental that it would be silly to question it.
Because make no mistake; we are all connected. And our world is quite literally driven by our collective passion. Will you pursue yours today?
When was the last time you lived an entire day for you? The last time you woke with passion and felt driven by something larger than yourself? Something that made you feel connected to the rest of the world in a way so fundamental that it would be silly to question it.
Because make no mistake; we are all connected. And our world is quite literally driven by our collective passion. Will you pursue yours today?
Monday, September 6, 2010
It wasn't a mini, but it sure was fun
Apparently driving on the wrong side of the road while shifting gears and checking my blind spot to cross out of a busy roundabout keeps my ADD highly entertained!
I rented a car to drive out to Stonehenge and New Forest for the day and had a ball zipping around in my little tiny standard rental car (a Citroen M3). Stonehenge was beautiful, though packed with tourists (damn tourists). An evening having a nice dinner and seeing a movie completed a rather pleasant date with myself.
This afternoon I was taken out on some Pilot runs (when they take a Pilot out to the giant ships to drive them in to Port) to see what the Marine side of the business is all about. You know me and small boats.... best of friends. This one was lovingly nicknamed "The Vomit Comet" by the ship's Captain. "Not to worry, love, it's only a little rough out there!" he assured me as I climbed aboard. Luckily I managed not to embarrass myself, thank God.
I have begun planning the rest of my time hear, choosing where to spend the time I will have left after wrapping up my valuable experience here at ABP. Already my stomach rumbles for Italian food....
I rented a car to drive out to Stonehenge and New Forest for the day and had a ball zipping around in my little tiny standard rental car (a Citroen M3). Stonehenge was beautiful, though packed with tourists (damn tourists). An evening having a nice dinner and seeing a movie completed a rather pleasant date with myself.
This afternoon I was taken out on some Pilot runs (when they take a Pilot out to the giant ships to drive them in to Port) to see what the Marine side of the business is all about. You know me and small boats.... best of friends. This one was lovingly nicknamed "The Vomit Comet" by the ship's Captain. "Not to worry, love, it's only a little rough out there!" he assured me as I climbed aboard. Luckily I managed not to embarrass myself, thank God.
I have begun planning the rest of my time hear, choosing where to spend the time I will have left after wrapping up my valuable experience here at ABP. Already my stomach rumbles for Italian food....
Thursday, September 2, 2010
I wish I had more time....
How can I feel like this already, only a week in? I feel like the sand is sliding through the hourglass so fast... too fast.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
so i rented a car for this weekend...
...and not only will I be driving on the opposite side of the road... I'll also be driving a manual!! ha ha ha ha
having trouble accessing sites to upload photos... so maybe tomorrow, I hope.
having trouble accessing sites to upload photos... so maybe tomorrow, I hope.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Edinburgh
Where to begin? I took advantage of the long weekend "bank holiday" to fly up to Edinburgh at Becky's suggestion to see the Edinburgh Festival, which is a whole pile of things but specifically a comedy and arts festival while I was there. The city is stunning, really, and that's a lot coming from me since we all know I'm not a fan of cities.
Some little known facts:
The next thing I learned in this charming city was that the place is damn hilly... I spent the better part of the weekend wandering the city and giving my ass (literally) a workout. I met an American army pilot along the way, found a coffee shop called "Chocolate Soup" that literally made hot chocolate and every other concoction with this melted chocolate "soup" that was to die for (puts Tims hot chocolate to shame), and generally acted like a tourist taking pictures of old buildings and staring at my map every few minutes with puzzlement. The pictures will be posted shortly, I promise. I hiked up Arthur's Seat, a BIG hill that is Crown land on one side of the city, enjoying the feeling of burning legs and wind that threatened to push me over. The view... well, what can I say besides that it was worth it.
My flight home was blissfully uneventful (as all flights should be), until I waited at baggage claim for my bag. (no, they didn't lose it... patience grasshopper... read on). In front of me stood a very pretty English girl with high healed running shoes (?) and a jean skirt. To my shock and wonder she had even paler legs than I do! Now, I know you don't believe me, and I could not take photo evidence because she was already slightly perplexed at my sudden and loud laughter, but it was true, I swear. My conclusion: I really do fit in here.
Tonight off to take a tour of London, this weekend to explore Southampton area, including (much to my excitement) Stonehenge and the Isle of Wight.
With that I sign off with a few notes to my girls: yes I had quite a few Tennants for you Kristi, and Becky I quite accidently got a Scottish bloke's number, but I'm keeping it :) ha ha ha.
Much love!
Some little known facts:
- The first Harry Potter novel was written here, inspired by a high school housed in a castle and fueled by strong coffee and good views
- The first geologist was Scottish, whose name I forget, which is why they created a fun 4D Earth exhibit that of course I toured
- This is where Adam Smith, the father of Economics was born
- It took 3 tries before they finally severed Queen Mary of Scots head. Them Scots... tough broads!
The next thing I learned in this charming city was that the place is damn hilly... I spent the better part of the weekend wandering the city and giving my ass (literally) a workout. I met an American army pilot along the way, found a coffee shop called "Chocolate Soup" that literally made hot chocolate and every other concoction with this melted chocolate "soup" that was to die for (puts Tims hot chocolate to shame), and generally acted like a tourist taking pictures of old buildings and staring at my map every few minutes with puzzlement. The pictures will be posted shortly, I promise. I hiked up Arthur's Seat, a BIG hill that is Crown land on one side of the city, enjoying the feeling of burning legs and wind that threatened to push me over. The view... well, what can I say besides that it was worth it.
My flight home was blissfully uneventful (as all flights should be), until I waited at baggage claim for my bag. (no, they didn't lose it... patience grasshopper... read on). In front of me stood a very pretty English girl with high healed running shoes (?) and a jean skirt. To my shock and wonder she had even paler legs than I do! Now, I know you don't believe me, and I could not take photo evidence because she was already slightly perplexed at my sudden and loud laughter, but it was true, I swear. My conclusion: I really do fit in here.
Tonight off to take a tour of London, this weekend to explore Southampton area, including (much to my excitement) Stonehenge and the Isle of Wight.
With that I sign off with a few notes to my girls: yes I had quite a few Tennants for you Kristi, and Becky I quite accidently got a Scottish bloke's number, but I'm keeping it :) ha ha ha.
Much love!
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
People keep offering me tea
So here I am. I navigated the Tube successfully and with much help from my new friend Alex I made it to Southampton in one piece, albiet a little shorter because my pack feels so damn heavy. The buildings are beautiful and the people very friendly... I think I'm starting to ask questions in an English accent already. So far I've done nothing more than slept and been to 'work' at ABP, but I feel oddly calm and contented.
I am struck mostly by the culture here as it applies to Sustainability. Suddenly I'm no longer the tree-hugging environmentalist.... I'm normal. Imagine that! My 'induction' this morning began with a statement from my other new friend Liz, who said "well this slide is a little redundant... of course we all know why we have to be more sustainable.... we certainly can't carry on the way we have been." I wonder how so many North Americans missed the memo?
I am struck mostly by the culture here as it applies to Sustainability. Suddenly I'm no longer the tree-hugging environmentalist.... I'm normal. Imagine that! My 'induction' this morning began with a statement from my other new friend Liz, who said "well this slide is a little redundant... of course we all know why we have to be more sustainable.... we certainly can't carry on the way we have been." I wonder how so many North Americans missed the memo?
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Do you remember when you were young and you wanted to set the world on fire?
Mummy and Liz came over the other night to help me burn what felt like 4001 CDs for work events being held in my absence. We had Chinese food, and I crossed my fingers my fortune would be good, since we all know that the cookie never lies.
“Don’t wait for opportunity to come along, go out and find it.”
My conclusion: the cookie knows all.
As I prepare, I thought I would be leaving my life for 2 months…. and that prospect was daunting to me, I’ll admit. Since then I’ve had so many well-wishes, so much love coming from so many people. I realize now that I’m not really leaving my life, I’m not really leaving my loved ones. I’m taking them with me as I go to set the world on fire. I’ve been waiting for this for a long time, and now it’s here. And I’m ready to go out and find whatever it is that I’m looking for.
To all my friends, loved ones and well-wishers, thank you.
“Don’t wait for opportunity to come along, go out and find it.”
My conclusion: the cookie knows all.
As I prepare, I thought I would be leaving my life for 2 months…. and that prospect was daunting to me, I’ll admit. Since then I’ve had so many well-wishes, so much love coming from so many people. I realize now that I’m not really leaving my life, I’m not really leaving my loved ones. I’m taking them with me as I go to set the world on fire. I’ve been waiting for this for a long time, and now it’s here. And I’m ready to go out and find whatever it is that I’m looking for.
To all my friends, loved ones and well-wishers, thank you.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Hoping that technology is my friend....
So my story begins here, sitting in my living room frantically trying to get my life organized enough to leave it for 2 months. If you know me (which you probably do if you're bothering to read this), you know that the idea of getting my life organized is a bit of a joke. Nonetheless, it's off I go to Europe, ready or not, for two purposes:
1. To see Sustainability first hand through the shadowing of individuals whose professional mission focuses on the difficult task of being "sustainable", and
2. To have a hell of a good time.
I leave Aug 23rd, and return home what feels like a lifetime from now. I hope this blog allows me to share some thoughts, impressions, stories, and (knowing me), deeply embarrassing moments with those people that I know and love... everyone from family and friends to colleagues and supporters. I don't doubt that you all will learn a lot more about me, whether you want to or not, (as will I!), and I promise to try not to have any TMI (too much information) posts. I sincerely hope you all will keep me company on my trip by blogging back, sharing a laugh or a tidbit from home.
All the best,
T-minus 25 days 'till departure
1. To see Sustainability first hand through the shadowing of individuals whose professional mission focuses on the difficult task of being "sustainable", and
2. To have a hell of a good time.
I leave Aug 23rd, and return home what feels like a lifetime from now. I hope this blog allows me to share some thoughts, impressions, stories, and (knowing me), deeply embarrassing moments with those people that I know and love... everyone from family and friends to colleagues and supporters. I don't doubt that you all will learn a lot more about me, whether you want to or not, (as will I!), and I promise to try not to have any TMI (too much information) posts. I sincerely hope you all will keep me company on my trip by blogging back, sharing a laugh or a tidbit from home.
All the best,
T-minus 25 days 'till departure
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)