Jenn's Travels

Old rocks and polisci nerd alert

2012-01-23T19:01:00.000-08:00

Sunday was my last full day in Rome and we made the most of it.

Ally, Jordan and I met Vincenzo at the Colosseum and we were off. Ally had met him years ago on a different trip to Rome and he gave us a free tour of the Forums and the Colosseum.

We had learned during the domus tour that there were actually several forums in the area. It's now surrounded by the ruins of ancient government buildings and the current city buildings are above it.

In ancient times it was the center of public life as a venue for public speeches, trials, elections, commercial affairs and more.

Ceasar's body was also publicly burned in the area, using any timber the Romans could find, including the roof of the Roman Senate.

We went into the original Roman Senate, as it's still largely intact and the roof was replaced. There's currently an exhibition on Nero inside. That's where I learned the origins of "body politic" and "head of state." Seriously, how had I not heard those before?

The Romans had headless statues that represent the institution, the "body politic," and they would change the head as the emperor changed, leading to "head of state." That showed that to the Romans, the institution was more important than the man, a similar concept to the American political system. So much for my polisci degree, don't remember learning that!

But, standing in there and seeing an ancient stack of bricks (I kid, it's amazing), made me realize, yet again, how little I know or remember about ancient Rome and how it influences us today. I will be making some library visits this weekend or parking myself at the bookstore and giving myself a history lesson.

They think Ceasar's cremated remains might be buried somewhere in the area of the forum, but no one has found them yet. It's one of Rome's great mysteries.

We walked on the original walk ways, or Sacred Way, where many ancient stones remain. Cool for the history factor, miserable to walk on for very long. You find yourself silently yelling at yourself to LOOK UP instead of concentrating on the stones, so you have to move slowly so as not to break your ankle but to also take in the ancient ruins.

We made our way to the Colosseum next and really, it's one of those things that you see the pictures and then you see it in real life. It looks just like the pictures, but still takes your breath away and you have a major "I am here" moment. I love those moments.

Interesting that we build stadiums pretty much the same way they built the Colosseum, minus the massive rocks and the fact that we have modern technology to speed construction. And yet, the Colosseum still stands.

Many statues and pieces are missing, the statues were mostly stolen. Some was disrepair and after the Colosseum ceased to be used for public events, people basically squatted in the vacant space.

We learned about the brutality of the gladiator matches, but also the killing of animals and the people that were killed by the animals, largely for sport. The emperor paid to build the Colosseum and also for the activities there. It was free entertainment, food and drink for the Romans. The guide told us it was in many ways to keep people happy with the emperor, keep them entertained and keep them aware of having to fight invaders/enemies at any time.

But, it was brutal and we asked if anyone had ethical issues with the activities, this was before PETA after all. Vincenzo told us that there were reports of a friar who stood between two gladiators at one match. The friar was killed, but the matches stopped after that. No one really knows if it was the friars actions that stopped the matches, or if the emperor ran out of money, or something else entirely.

The views from the top of the Colosseum are incredible and not to be missed. Taking in all of the Forums and part of Palatine Hill from there was just amazing.

Vincenzo had to catch another tour so we headed to Palatine Hill on our own. A little tougher to figure out without a guide, but still amazing. It's where the emperors lived and Augustus was the first, I think. We found some of the rooms that were part of his house and some of the frescoes are still visible. If you see the pictures on Facebook, there's a few where you can see the frescoes.

We found some more awesome views of the city from the hill and wandered around the ruins for awhile, eavesdropping on another tour now and then to figure out what we were looking at.

By then we were starving and passed Circus Maximus (very anticlimactic) on our way to the Jewish Quarter for lunch at a place that came highly recommended by Jordan's host mom. Ba'Ghetto and it is in fact amazing. Amazing! We had falafel and I had a pasta with cheese and pepper...in a bowl of baked cheese. Seriously. It was like the pasta never ended. I struggled a bit, but managed to pretty much clear my plate.

We visited a very popular bakery that was pretty much cleared out by then, but Ally picked up some sort of pastry thing that included jellied fruits. Interesting, but surprisingly tasty. With our baked goods to power us on, we walked (more walking!) to the church with the Mouth of Truth, or Bocca della Verita. Again, some pictures on Facebook. It's where they would bring accused adulterers and have them put their hands in the mouth and if you were guilty, priests were on the other side to hit your hand. This tradition apparently came from Venice, where people would write and submit their accusations into slots that looked like mouths throughout the city.

After pictures with the Mouth of Truth, we went into the church that had a sign in which a translation went awry: "Dress whit dignity."

Language barriers aside, the church, Santa Maria in Cosmedin was beautiful. Probably my favorite. This is where I really noticed how much the tile mosaics looked like the one we saw in the domus tour on Saturday. And where my obsession with this tile really took hold. Seriously, there are lots of pictures of it on my phone that I need to upload.

With time to kill before dinner, we crossed the river to Trastevere for some exploring. We ended up in one of the earliest churches in Rome, Santa Maria. The support columns inside were "repurposed" from other Roman sites.

After a day of history, we wrapped up with dinner at the site where Ceasar was stabbed. Seems fitting to have already seen his cremation and possible burial site. It is, after all, all about Ceasar.

Live like Romans

2012-01-23T18:47:00.000-08:00

After being thoroughly creeped out, we went back into the land of the living.

We walked (always walking!) to Piazza Navona so I could look for some art. I visited every vendor in the piazza and most things looked roughly the same, but I was amazed at the price differences. Sort of like Eastern Market really, but less variety. One vendor would say, "Just 10 euros for that one."

Why would I pay 10 when the guy over there is selling it for 7?

Ended up with exactly what I wanted for 15. Not the cheapest, but it was the perfect take away for the trip and will go on the wall as soon as I find the right size frame. Same goes for the similar art I bought in London...in 2006...so we'll see if I can speed the process up this time.

We found fun books in a shop off the piazza and jumped when a crazy old woman broke a tile and the store clerk shouted in Italian, but the gestures were universal. I had to laugh, mostly because it wasn't me who broke it.

We also found some great histories of Rome and if they weren't so huge, I probably would have bought one there. But really, a history of Rome, even just ancient Rome, is like a large brick that you then have to cart back over several oceans. Enter half.com or Amazon.

Despite the fact that our fingers were cold, we passed San Crispino, a gelato place that was mentioned in Eat, Pray, Love. Excellent gelato (I had ginger and cinnamon and pear), even if we don't really care for the book. Seriously, our various issues with the book came up multiple times over the weekend.

Ally, Jordan and I met the other girls at one of the bridges and made a quick grocery stop in the Prati district before heading to Ally's host home to cook our own dinner.

I'm used to traveling alone and though I meet locals, this trip felt more like an authentic experience in that we did things based on recommendations from what the host families recommended, cooked and ate in their home. Since Ally and the girls have been living there for months, it was more like visiting a friend who lives in another town, versus running off to a foreign country for the weekend.

Again, met one of my travel goals for the year, break out of your travel routine.

We couldn't find fresh pasta, ridiculous we know, but store bought from an Italian store counts just as well. Jordan made the best bread, that I will be recreating at Italian dinner night this weekend.

Just add wine, chocolate cake and friends. Presto, fabulous night in an actual Italian home.

Okay, I hear you, I'll seize the day

2012-01-19T03:19:00.000-08:00

In a switch from the Bernini statue, we headed over to the Church of the Immaculate and the Crypt of the Capuchins.

The Capuchin friars, who took their name from the "capuche," or hood, attached to their religious habit, left the friary of St. Bonaventure near Trevi Fountain in 1631 and moved to the present one. Only the church and crypt remain of the friary.

The remains of deceased friars were transported to the new friary and laid underneath the present church, where their bones were arranged along the walls. The friars began to bury their own dead here and poor Romans. Those tombs were under the floor for of the current Mass chapel. This is where the Capuchins would come to pray and reflect before bed each night.

Alterations to the space and placement of the bones on the walls continued until 1870, resulting in the art visible today. The remains of more than 4,000 friars are included in the crypt.

At first, all you really see are bones. Lots and lots of bones. But then you start to look closer and you can see various scenes and messages depicted in the art. In several places you will see an hour glass shape made out of bones, some also have wings made from shoulder blades.

In another section, there's a skeleton secured to the ceiling and it holds a scythe in its right hand and scales in the left. There's also a design of a clock with the single face indicating the continuity of life, in time and in eternity (according to the informational postcard I bought).

It's a fascinating thing to see, but the longer you stand in there, the more you really think about how you are surrounded with human remains and well, that starts to get to you. We also noticed that some of the skeletons were placed, intact, in friar's habits and appeared to still have flesh on them. It was treated in some fashion, because it looked hardened and didn't smell but we noticed that on most of those, the weren't just bones.

We decided that when we died, we really didn't want our remains made into art work for people to pay one euro to see. Beyond that, I haven't given much thought to my wishes after death, but I now know that I do not want to be made into public art work.

You're not supposed to take pictures in the crypt, so I bought a postcard with images. I'll try to scan and post those later. But, here's a photo from the Capuchin's blog...hold on, friars blog?

At the end, there's a stone inscription, in multiple languages, that reads: "What you are now, we once were; what we are now, you shall be."

A somewhat morbid Carpe Diem message, but it certainly gets the point across. Loud and clear. So get to work friends, seize the day. The friars are talking to all of us.

Visions of God

2012-01-19T02:57:00.000-08:00

The group broke up after the domus tour and Ally, Jordan and I swung by the hostel. Jordan had brought a little piece of home (Kraft mac and cheese) for our dinner that night.

The Santa Maria della Vittoria church was nearby so we stopped there to see another Bernini statue, the Ecstasy of St. Theresa in the Cornaro Chapel of the church.

The church made her a saint because of the spiritual visions she experienced in the 16th century in Spain.

You can put some change in an offering box to light the sculpture, which we did.

Laminated sheets on the banister in front of the sculpture contain excerpts from St. Theresa's book and this is how she describes her experience with visions of angels:

"Beside me, on the left, appeared an angel in bodily form...He was not tall but short, and very beautiful; and his face was so aflame that he appeared to be one of the highest rank of angels, who seem to be all on fire...In his hands I saw a great golden spear, and at the iron tip there appeared to be a point of fire. This he plunged into my heart several times to that it penetrated my entrails. When he pulled it out I felt that he took them with it, and left me utterly consumed by the great love of God. The pain was so severe that it made me utter several moans. The sweetness caused by this intense pain is so extreme that one cannot possibly wish it to cease, nor is one's soul content with anything but God. This is not a physical but a spiritual pain, though the body has some share in it--even a considerable share."

Well, alright then.

"You might fall through the floor...into history!"

2012-01-18T02:40:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, we all went for coffee at Campo de Fiori. All, being myself, Ally and her au pair friends Jordan and Becca and their other friend who lives/works in Rome.

We were just sitting and chatting, enjoying our coffee and at one point a strange, old man with a bag snuck up on us and shook the bag and made this awful loud sound. At first I thought he had a bird in the bag, but he was just making the sound. He scared the living daylights out of us and hovered for a bit. No idea what he was saying or doing, so we paid our bill and explored the open air market to get away from him.

I picked up some Murano glass jewelry for myself and a gift, as well as a wine stopper of Murano glass in the shape of a dolphin. I love it. Love it!

Ally bought her favorite Italian version of trail mix that included candied tomatoes. I hate tomatoes in most forms, but she made me try it. Doesn't taste that much like a tomato. Odd.

By then it was time for lunch and we grabbed pizza (I ordered in Italian, yikes!) at Forno and then headed across town for our tour. The pizza was amazing!

The tour was of Le Domus Romane, or Roman house. It's a tour of the archaeological remains of ancient Roman houses found under Palazzo Valentini, which has been the seat of the Province of Rome since 1873.

When you walk in, you walk down a few stairs made of glass onto a glass floor to look at the ruins below. It's a bit unsettling to walk on the glass and it messes with your head for awhile.

They use lights and multimedia to show you where the remains of various rooms are and what they would have looked like in 3-D video presentations. It's the No. 1 thing to do in Rome according to Trip Advisor (another great find by Ally) and we all highly recommend it!

They also show you what Rome would have looked like in ancient times with 3-D multimedia technology and it's incredible. We were like little kids watching this and taking it in. At several times we said things like "woah" and "cool!"

The house was one of a wealthy Roman family based on the designs, artifacts found and the number of baths and pools they found. It seems like all the Romans did was sit around and take baths. Not really, but they had a hot water bath, then a cold water bath and also a recreational pool, in one house! The bedrooms were small as they were only used as sleeping quarters apparently. They even found a dish in the kitchen area that still had food remains on it, including egg yolks, bones and they found a turtle shell. They said something about eating peacocks and well, that doesn't sound especially appealing.

They also found the most incredible mosaic that was cut in half by a foundation wall of a 17th century era structure. But the mosaic is largely in tact and the designs again signify the wealth of the ancient family because of its intricacy. I later saw similar designs in the Vatican museum, the first church built in Rome and another church. It was everywhere. I love it. I'll probably spend the rest of my life trying to recreate it.

Rome was also hit by an earthquake and massive fires causing destruction to parts of the house that are evident in the archaeological remains.

Eventually, we mostly adjusted to the glass floor, but at one point one of the girls was worried about the glass breaking.

"You might fall through the floor."

Ally: "Into history!"

"You look like a diplomat. Do you work at the UN?"

2012-01-17T10:41:00.000-08:00

Seriously. That happened.

While I was in the Vatican on Friday, I stumbled upon the Historic Art Museum of the Treasury of St. Peter's.

Honestly, it wasn't worth the 7 euros I paid, mistakenly thinking I was at the actual Vatican Museum. But, while I was in there, looking at all the gold, jewels, garmets and other finery of the Vatican, one of the museum staffers started talking to me.

He opened with "Are your feet cold?" Because I had on flat shoes with no socks. It was actually fairly warm that day and I was indoors with a coat on. No, I'm not cold.

Him: Where are you from?

Me: The U.S.

Him: Which state?

Me: Washington, D.C.

Him: Are you a diplomat? You look like you work at the UN. Your style and how you carry yourself and the way you are looking at things, you look very smart and important.

Me: Uh, thanks. No, I work at a museum.

He keeps talking to me, while I'm trying to read the labels painfully lacking of detail and quickly realizing I am not in the right museum.

He keeps talking, but finally lets me move on.

Later, he finds me in another part of the small museum that was at least moderately interesting to me, despite the incredible lack of detail on the descriptions. Seriously, a label for a ring would say something like "Gold ring with rubies." No kidding, I can see that. How old is it, who wore it, why is it here? Tell me something!

Museum man keeps talking to me.

"Really, who are you. You must be important."

Me: No, I work at a museum. Just a person in a very big city.

Him: Are you sure?

Me: Yes.

He goes on to tell me his life story about where he went to school, he apparently has a doctorate and worked in politics, so why he's working at a less than awesome museum in a city full of incredible museums, I'm not sure.

But, he tells me that I should wait five minutes for him to go on his break and he'll take me to the dome free of charge. He also tells me I should come back on Sunday and meet him and he'll take me for a behind the scenes tour after the Pope's appearance and take me to see the Sistine Chapel without paying 15 euros.

Okay, sure. For that, I'll deal with some absurd small talk with a non-Italian who speaks Italian but not much English.

So I hover waiting for his break, which comes and goes and his boss calls him to do something else. He says he can't take me now but to come back.

Yeah, sure. Because I have loads of time to operate on a stranger's schedule.

I'm done with this and go back into the basillica and find the dome and cupola all by myself. Maybe 5 euros poorer, but I don't have time to waste. I'm in Rome! Must explore! Now! Plus, we had a packed schedule planned for Sunday and I wasn't going to miss a minute of that for anything less than a sure thing.

He did e-mail me, but alas, I was having bellinis and dinner in a great wine bar with great friends and having a lovely time, so I didn't see it.

After dinner, we ran into a British au pair friend of my friends. They had met some Aussies and the group somehow made it over to Campo de'Fiori, picking up some more Brits in the process.

They were in town for an IT conference and failing to find a proper bar, so we helped them out. And by we, I mean the British au pair, the rest of us were largely tag alongs.

We chatted for awhile in the piazza and at one point we were talking about professions. I said I was a journalist, despite the fact that I currently do social media for a museum, I'm still a journalist and will be again.

One of the Brits: "Ding, ding, ding! I found the real grown up. The one with a proper job!"

She then told the rest of her group that I was a journalist and they were all fascinated, for some odd reason. One had a friend or relative who worked for the Daily Mail, had I heard of it? Yes. I have.

That was the same Brit who asked Ally, from Kansas, what the closest NHL team was to her. Ha.

I don't think I've ever had a day in which I was so important and proper or been called a real grown up. Good thing I dressed up a bit to go to the Vatican!

Of course, after that we were accosted by very odd Italian guys. We're not entirely sure what was happening there. They loved, and I mean were entralled, by the buttons on Ally's coat. My style was just okay, compared to the buttons.

Ah, knocked back down to my proper place in life.

Cue Catholic guilt.

2012-01-15T00:46:00.000-08:00

Spent most of Friday taking in the splendor of the Catholic Church's wealth at the Vatican.

It's amazing. There's definitely a moment when you walk in and it literally takes your breath away. Although I kept it classy, far better than a few other tourists around me who acted like school children with their ooos and ahhs. Get it together people.

St. Peter's Basillica is enormous. Enormous, I tell you! Kym Klass and a few others will understand what I mean when I say it's the C-130 of churches. I really should have had something to eat before I went in because it takes all day. But, I somehow timed it perfectly so I didn't spend too long in line.

After lots of wandering, I found this spot where they let you go under a statue and it takes you to the grottoes and you walk amongst dead popes. Very interesting and enlightening to read about each Pope as you look at where he is buried. The entire visit made me realize how little I know about the Church and its history, despite growing up Catholic.

When you come out the other side of the grottoes, it spits you out right at the line for the dome and cupola. It took me a minute to figure it out, but of course I wanted to go up.

They charge you 5 euro to take the stairs and 7 if you want to take the elevator. But, the signs warn you that after the elevator you still have 320 steps to go so if you have a heart condition or are frail, you might want to consider that. What they don't tell you is how narrow and steep the stairs are and that they actually go on forever so that even if you don't have a heart condition and have actually been going to the gym, this little adventure might kill you. So of course I decided to save 2 euros and take the stairs.

By the time I got to the dome, I felt like I had run a few miles straight up hill. Rough. Thankfully a few people around me were struggling even more. But when you step out of there into the dome and look into the basillica and at the people down below, it is amazing. You get to hang out up there for a few minutes and then it's back to the stairs.

To the cupola is the worst set of stairs ever quite possibly. Although I know I've said that about places in Peru and Slovenia, but I'm not sure these stairs will be topped anytime soon.

But when you walk out and see the entire city of Rome below you, at sunset, totally worth it. Even if you're worried you might collapse or fall over the edge somehow. Of course by now my camera has died, I'm two for two with camera batteries in Italy. Must improve. But got some shots on my phone, all is not lost.

On the way down I thought my legs might give out at any second and I took a break wandering the roof of the basillica at the halfway-ish point. Bought a few gifts from nuns for the more holy family members and then there was no more stalling as it was getting cold, back to the damn stairs.

Made it to the bottom without collapsing somehow and the route spits you out back in the church, meaning I could make mass.

So I went to Friday night mass. You know, at the Vatican.

I'm pretty sure it was a cardinal who said mass, in Italian, but gave a brief homily in English, about how God will forgive your sins and just try to follow in his way. Did he know I was there toting my crazy Catholic guilt?

Haven't seen the Sistine Chapel yet, but I won't give up, plan to try that tomorrow.

So much more to write, but must go, meeting Jordan to make our way to the Colesseum to meet Ally. More exploring and fun to be had!

Ciao!

"You're very lucky."

2012-01-13T03:18:00.001-08:00

Only not really.

At the Spanish Steps last night, while I was waiting to meet Ally, a street vendor handed me three long stem roses. I said "No, thank you," which is what you pretty much always say while touristing. But he said, "No, no, for you."

This eventually digressed to something like this:

Me: Okay thank you. (Walk away)

Him: Miss, you very lucky. You give me something. Something money.

Me: No thanks, why don't you take the flowers back.

Him: No, no, for you. You give me something. Something money.

Me: I don't have anything to give you. Take the flowers.

Him: No, no, for you. You very lucky. You give me something, anything you like.

Me: Okay, here's the flowers.

Him: No, no. For you.

Me: Okay. I'm going to walk away now.

Him: Miss. Miss. Okay, I take the flowers.

That's what I thought, flower man. We won't be playing that game again.

Roma

2012-01-13T02:55:00.000-08:00

Landed around 7 a.m. yesterday (local time, meaning it was 1 a.m. my time) after a long flight of not sleeping. Finished an entire book but with an aisle seat and the man next to me taking up a lot of space, no sleep. So it goes.

It was a bit odd that also in my row was another American girl with long red hair. From the back, you might not be able to tell us apart. Really, on a flight full of Italians, the two red headed American girls are in the same row?

There was much screaming and crying from children, and no, it doesn't sound much better in Italian.

Going through passport control in Italy is far less stressful to me than going through customs to return to my own country. Once I had my bag I wandered off to find the bus or train to the city, despite every single taxi driver asking if i wanted a ride, more than once. I walked down to the bus station, but though cheaper, the next bus wasn't for another 45 minutes and takes an hour to get to the city. So I opted for the express train that only took about half an hour for 14 euro.

On the train, I met a very nice man who spoke little English and I speak little Italian (seriously, my Italian is crap). But he asked where I was from, warned me about pick pockets and at one point I thought he told me he had lived in San Diego, but after a few more words I didn't understand, I don't think that's what he meant.

Made it to the hostel after missing it on my first pass down the street and got situated there.

Ally and I met in St. Peter's Square and got busy touristing. First up, coffee and breakfast at a cafe near Piazza del Popola. We chatted and caught up on the last two years since we met at Fort Leavenworth for a military reporting workshop.

We spent the next several hours, HOURS!, walking the city. Hiked up the Spanish Steps, took in the views, looked at Villa Borghese, climbed back down the steps and took photos of the fountain at the bottom of the steps. We went to the Pantheon, which is amazing, saw the monument that was a sacrificial alter that I already forgot the name of again, saw the Four Rivers fountain which the legend goes that the sculptor didn't like the Bernini at the other end of the Piazza Navona , so he scuplted one of the men with his head turned away and buried under a cloth. Also tossed a coin in the Trevi Fountain, which is believed to ensure a return to Rome.

Gelato was also in order as you can't come to Italy and not have gelato. We went to Ally's favorite spot and I got a scoop of rasberry and a scoop of pear and cinamoon. Delicious!

Ally had to go to work so we split up for a bit and by the time I got to the hostel I don't think I would have made it another step. I did what I almost never do while traveling, I took a nap. But I think it's fair considering by then I hadn't slept in about 36 hours, maybe more, and walked most of Rome.

Dinner was at a great place in Trastevere with Ally and her friend. I'll have to check the name of it, but it was fantastic. They go there often and the staff knows them and sometimes gives them free drinks, like last night. Pasta, dessert and a dessert wine, how can you go wrong?

Getting back on the bus was a slight challenge as I think I did something wrong and ended up going further than I needed to and then back in a circle, I think. Was hard to tell, all I know is one bus driver was going exceptionally fast, on a bus, on cobblestone streets. Yikes!

Alright, back to exploring!

Italia!

2012-01-11T06:00:00.001-08:00

I'm making good on my promise to myself for more travel this year.

This afternoon I'm boarding a plane bound for Rome.

I've never been and I'm stoked. I've been to Venice and loved it, so I imagine I'll also love Rome.

I'll be meeting a friend who is spending the year in Rome and blogging about it too. You should check out her blog!

This weekend is shaping up to be amazing. That's right, just a few days in Rome. What else would I do with a federal holiday but leave town, or the country? Here's the map Ally has made for us with a good chunk of what we'll be doing.

Of course, my flight leaves in a few hours and I'm just now packing for myself and getting Grover ready for the kennel. He requires more packing than I do!

A few of the must-dos on my list are the Vatican, Colosseum, Forum and Palatine. Ally, wonderfully playing the part of tour guide, has come up with a fantastic list of things to do and it's going to be a fabulous time!

So, check back here and I'll post updates and hopefully photos. For now, must make sure all electronic necessities are charged and find my international adapter kit that Abbie gave me after my camera died in Venice the last time!

Ciao!

New year, new adventures

2011-12-30T08:47:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year, when people make resolutions about exercising more, eating better, saving money and somehow bettering themselves. I don't believe in New Year's resolutions because if you really want to better yourself, you can resolve to do it right then, not wait for the calendar to dictate your life.

While I rarely make a New Year's resolution, I am constantly making lists of goals, or other resolutions throughout the year. I find that when I write it down, I'm more likely to accomplish it. As I'm nearing 30, you know, that mystical age that seems to cause major assessment of your life, what you've done compared to what you want to accomplish, I figured I should get a jump start on getting myself in order since August 2013 and that mystical birthday will arrive sooner than I'm ready for.

But, since it is the season of resolutions, I've been seeing lots of articles about it. This week I found a few I can really get behind.

First up, this one from BootsnAll, a great indie travel site. All are good travel resolutions and I genuinely believe travel makes your life better all around. Experiencing the world can make you so much more aware, not just of other cultures and landscapes, but of the world and your place in it.

No. 9 on the list is to travel solo. Of course I don't recommend everyone go jetting off to foreign lands by yourself if you're not prepared and haven't thought through such a plan. I much prefer solo travel because I know myself, I want to do everything on my own schedule and in my own way. I also force myself to get outside my comfort zone and also meet many more people while traveling solo. But, if you're not as crazy as I am, start small. Take a solo road trip to a city you want to visit. Spend a day at museums or art galleries by yourself. Take the time alone to think, see, feel and experience. Yes, you can experience with friends and travel buddies and I am planning a few trips with friends who share my love of travel and adventures, but there's a huge benefit in spending some time on your own. Plus, while in foreign countries alone, I'm not pulled into conversations about things at home, unless I'm chatting with someone from another country, a stranger turned friend, about how our lives are different and similar. It allows me to focus on where I am, what I'm doing, where I'm going and regain some perspective. Everyone can use a minute to look at your life from the outside to keep yourself going in the direction you want to be going in.

A good read on solo traveling and very true points.

Another favorite is No. 11. Be a traveler at home. You can't know the world out there if you don't know where you come from. As much as I love to leave the country on an adventure, I don't always have the time or the funds. I love to explore where ever I am, near or far. I love to play tour guide when friends come to town or play travel agent when friends go abroad. A sense of place is a great thing and you start to feel at home even in faraway lands when you explore and live like a local. There's a good chance your area has more to offer than you think and you can get your fill of art, music, food, outdoor activity, culture and more if you try. Keep your sense of wonderment alive until you can wander far from home again! If you need more reasons to get you out and about in your town town, read this list. I love it!

But my favorite of the resolutions is No. 16. Be an inspiration. I still remember when I first decided to spend a semester abroad. For a minute I thought, no, I could never do that. And then I thought, why not? And I did it. On that trip I not only survived abroad, I flourished. I explored and made new friends. I learned more about the world and my own country by being away. I saw a different way of life where going to college was a huge privilege not a right and those New Zealand students worked far harder and took their education more seriously than most American students I knew. I came back a better version of myself, but also realized at any time and for any reason, I could buy a plane ticket, hop on a jet and go anywhere in the world. On my own. At 21, that was an enormous revelation and also changed my life probably forever.

All that said, I still don't believe in New Years resolutions. These are things I strive for every day. I don't always succeed, but the goal is always there and that keeps me moving in that direction. I do, however, love this idea of quarterlies. I will definitely be making use of this approach this year and will not just hope for the best in accomplishing them, I will. Some goals will take longer or will end up changing, but I've used the write it down, then do it approach for most things and for me, it works.

Happy New Year everyone! I wish you all the best in the new year, but mostly, I wish you travel, adventure and exploration!

Travel charm bracelet

2011-11-23T05:07:00.000-08:00

Charm bracelets aren't usually my style. But while wandering around Eastern Market with Abbie earlier this month, I just happened to pick this one up. Then I realized that the clasp is engraved with "I love travel." (I know, it's hard to tell in the photo, promise, it's there.)

It went something like this:

Me: Abbie! It says I love travel.

Abbie: That's perfect for you.

Me: And it has a compass bead, and a camera and the Eiffel Tower and a shamrock...(at this point, I'm starting to run out of breath since I'm reacting much like I did when, as a kid, I met Belle at Disney).

Abbie: You have to have it.

Me: It's $12.

Abbie: Get it.

Turns out, it was only $8.

More of me acting 5.

Abbie: You're getting it.

And, that's the story of my latest jewelry acquisition. I love it.

Three day weekend in Italia?

2011-11-22T07:36:00.000-08:00

So, what should one do with a three-day weekend in January?

Go to Rome, obviously.

A friend of mine is spending the year in Rome and the travel bug has been hitting me hard lately.

Solution, book a flight to Italy!

What do y'all think? And, who has suggestions for what to do in Rome?

Estonia is on the calendar for March/April. And now maybe Dublin in August. It seems that I'll be making up for my lack of international travel the last two years all at once.

Southern Days...Again

2011-11-22T06:59:00.000-08:00

Back in February, at the NOLA half, I decided it was a good idea to register for the Savannah half. All to save $5. It's how my brain works.

Having done a much better job of training for this half, I was actually looking forward to it and was mostly injury free, if you don't count my, as my sister calls it, old lady hip.

Since we'd just moved from the apartment complex from hell to a townhouse about a mile away, Grover was not in his right mind. That poor pup was acting as if we were just going to ditch him on the side of the road. Clearly he didn't understand that we picked the new place with its awesome yard just for him. So, I brought him along for the 9ish hour drive from Alexandria to Savannah. Amazing that I used to make the drive from DC to Alabama...don't think I'm cut out for that anymore.

Grover and I made it to the hotel and he was not especially thrilled about having spent the entire day in the car and was confused about the hotel room. At one point, he crawled into the corner behind a chair and just curled up there. Weirdo.

Note to self, never get a hotel room near the lobby when you have an already stressed puppy with you. I think I got maybe 2 hours sleep before the race since Grover felt the need to defend me from every single person who walked by or sound he heard. Thanks Grove, but I'd rather sleep. It was a rough night.

But, at 0500, I was up and ready and heading to the shuttle spot. That was a mess. The logistics for this race were a disaster, but I'm sure they'll do it better next year. Oh, forgot to mention the hour I spent trying to cross the Talmadge Bridge to get to the expo. Made it the race start eventually, roughly 30 minutes after the race started, and was off!

The old lady hip was causing me to walk funny on Friday and I was worried I wouldn't be able to race, but on race day, it held up alright. On the shuttle over, I made friends with some former Marines who were running the full marathon. Shortly after I started running, they passed me carrying their massive Marine Corps flag and Old Glory. A great sight to motivate you.

We ran through some sketchy parts of Savannah, but also some nicer spots. I was impressed by how friendly and supportive everyone was along the race route. That's always helpful as long as they don't tell you you're almost at the finish or it's all downhill when it fact you're miles away and it's up a huge hill (flashback to the Nashville half when I almost punched an onlooker telling such lies!).

The race ended in Forsyth Park near the iconic fountain. Really beautiful area on a beautiful day. While back in line waiting for the shuttles again (more logistical nightmares), I got to chatting with some people in front of me who were from, none other than, Alabama. Really, I feel like 'bama is following me, even if I was down South. Also chatted with the people behind me who were from all over, including California...long way for a race!

After the mad dash back to the hotel to shower and pack up in 14 minutes flat, Grover and I headed to Tybee Island. I thought about checking out Hilton Head, but decided I'd rather see Fort Pulaski and the lighthouse. Only they weren't free like the guidebook said and I didn't have the cash or the time to justify spending the cash to look around. Instead, I wandered around the island for a bit, walked out to the shore and just enjoyed the view.

Despite my love of Virginia and DC, there are moments when I miss the Southern way of life. And I definitely love Tybee. Beautiful oceanfront, but also a really eclectic that used wooden turtles to direct you to points of interest. If I get the chance, I'll be back.

On the way back home, we stopped in Fayetteville to see a few friends. One I had met a few years ago at Fort Leonard Wood while participating in the military reporting workshop. He's at Fort Bragg now. Also got to lunch with the awesome April, who now reports on military happenings in the Army town and is an SPJ bud. Plus, Grover got to hang out with us on the patio while we grabbed some Chipotle -- a big deal for F'ville.

A fun time all around and added another medal to my collection. I love races that give you medals for just finishing, makes my day. Not sure I'll drive that far for a race again though, at least not by myself. I say that having already told a friend I'd do the Charleston bridge run with him in March.

But, you know me, and there's a fair chance I'll do exactly that again, and you can read all about it.

Races coming up, the Hot Chocolate 15K at National Harbor, the DC Rock n' Roll Half, and seriously contemplating the first Rock n' Roll half in...Dublin! How do you skip that?

Catching Up

2011-11-22T06:43:00.000-08:00

Okay, okay, I've been a slacker on here and I know it!

So that DC Scavenger Hunt was a bust. Markeshia and I were stoked about it and started strong, but it was so unbelievably hot and I, as usual, got myself a dazzling sunburn, that we stopped caring after awhile and got lunch instead.

A good idea, but the scavenger list included things like a orange crayon, a ketchup packet and a tin foil hat among other useless things. We would have much preferred a hunt for DC related things, or with more DC trivia/history. Although, because of that hunt, I did discover that Taft was not just the president who needed a special bathtub, but he was also the only president to have also served as chief justice of the Supreme Court. He was also a defense secretary of some sort. Turns out, he was one of the more accomplished statesmen. Whodda thunk?

There have of course been more trips to Yorktown for things like the wine festival at the riverfront, which I highly recommend. So much wine, so little time. High school pal Matt definitely poked fun at me for getting tipsy. What can I say, I'm a lightweight.

For my August birthday, there was a winery trip. Grovester got to come too. K-9s in the Vines at Linganore Winecellers in Maryland. Who doesn't love a day at a winery surrounded by pups! Grover loved it, roommate and I loved the wine. Again, insanely hot, but a great birthday at an event that benefits the local animal society.

A few weeks later, the roommate and I made the 5-hour drive to Blacksburg for our bud Ellen's wedding. We all used to work together in Fredericksburg and Ellen and I were roommates in the early days of her and Ethan's relationship. Long drive, but worth the total shenanigans that included the Hokie bird showing up for a twirl around the dance floor.

Then it was time to get serious about training since I had signed myself up for the Rock n' Roll Savannah half marathon. These things always seem like a good idea at the time. But, I'll save that for the next post!

Travels with Grover

2011-08-04T07:42:00.001-07:00

Because I have an incredibly social puppy who is apparently always starved for attention, I've decided to find as many things to do as possible that can include Grover.

Grover is a black lab mix of some sort and about 20 months old. You've read about him here before, but I don't think I've ever written about how he ended up with me.

Last year, on a dark and stormy night (just because I could) my roommate in Alabama came in from a run or something and said there was a big, black dog outside. She let him into the little stairwell area in front of our apartment so he would be out of the rain, but I figured we couldn't leave him out there. He was perfectly friendly, but when you open a door and see a big, black dog you don't know looking at you, well, some people would not handle that well.

I brought him inside and dried him off. He didn't have a name tag, so he just sat with me while I figured out what to do. I called/texted/social media'd everyone in I knew in our neighborhood to see if anyone was missing a dog, or knew of such a dog. He did have a rabies tag on, so I called the vet's number on the tag and left a message explaining that I had the dog, didn't know who he belonged to, but would keep him inside for the night in case anyone called there looking for him. That vet was amazing, because he called back a few minutes later, pulled up the information on the dog and gave me the dog's name-Jack, his owner's number and address.

I called the owner, who was out with friends. He said he'd head home and that I could just leave Jack in the back yard.

Getting Jack back outside into the rain wasn't easy. Getting him into my car was harder. Getting him out of the car and into the rain when we got to his house was downright impossible. He wouldn't budge. So instead we sat in front of the house and waited for his owner. In a thunderstorm.

It was a crazy night and apparently Jack is afraid of thunderstorms and has a tendency to escape when he gets scared.

But, I fell in love with that dog and decided that I wanted one of my own. A week or so later, I got an e-mail about a found golden puppy who needed a home. I called and said I'd take it, but never got a call back, so I guess someone else got him first. Then I started poking around pet adoption sites in the area, but decided that it really wasn't practical for me to have a dog, so I shouldn't spend so much time looking for one. I really wanted a black lab since I'd had one as a kid and just love them, but I wasn't finding one that suited me. So I gave up the search.

Not too much later, my roommate was working on a project to save the Grover Hall house in town. Grover Hall was a Pulitzer winning journalist who had once worked at the Advertiser and lived in Montgomery. The house was in danger of being torn down, and so Jill was trying to save it.

During that project, and other reporting, she met a local woman who works in historic preservation.

This woman found a black lab puppy at Old Alabama Town one day while this Grover Hall house project was happening and named him Grover. She told my roommate about the puppy one day and made up a flier about the dog. She kept him at her house, but told the local shelters she had him in case anyone came looking. No one did. My roommate came home one day and said, "I shouldn't do this, but here," and handed me the flier. Grover the puppy was the cutest little guy and I called the woman that night.

Within a few days, I had a puppy.

That is the story of how I came to have Grover. And it makes sense that I would end up with a black lab named for a Pulitzer winning journalist (not the Seasame Street character and not the president, but a journalist). He was meant to be my dog.

That said, I love Grover, but sometimes he makes me completely and totally nuts. He doesn't enjoy being home without me or my roommate so I get up early every morning now and take him running. We go to the dog park and we hang out. But, still, it's hard to leave him home alone when I go off to meet friends, because he has perfected the woe is me sad puppy face.

So, last night I learned more about a puppy happy hour in Old Town (Alexandria is incredibly dog friendly) and this morning I was looking at a winery online and they have a dog friendly event coming up. So basically, this started a domino effect of me finding puppy friendly activities in the area.

Now I'm detemined to do all of them and will share details here with other dog owners in the area. Or you can just follow the adventures of Grover...believe me, he gets into just as many shenanigans as I do.

First up, bushwacking along the Potomac River. Markeshia and I will be doing that Sunday with Grover and the new friends we'll make on a group outing we found on a DC discount site. We're hoping it's not a bajillion degrees, but it should be good times. If nothing else, Grover will sleep for awhile afterward. As long as he doesn't pull me down stone stairs or into a rocky creek, we'll be doing alright (such things have happened).

Next, K-9s in the Vines at a Maryland winery. It's on Aug. 21, the day before my birthday, and I've pretty much decided that we'll be going. It's a win for me and for Grover. And the event benefits the local animal welfare league. I'm all for drinking wine, hanging out with Grover and supporting animals.

Then, there's the doggy happy hours in Old Town. At Hotel Monaco, the dogs get to have fun and so do the grownups. The adjacent restaurant is excellent, I'm told, and I know I like the hotel. We'll check it out next week I think and I'll report back.

Another fun activity is a canine cruise. This is a great idea. You get to do a river tour on the Potomac on hot summer nights and the dogs get some socializing in. I only worry that Grover will try to jump off the boat into the river. I'm not kidding. He tried to jump off a bridge into the Potomac a few weeks ago...what a start to my day that was.

So, that's what I have so far. I'll check them all out, report back and continue to expand the list of pet friendly activities in the DC area. You know I love a good day trip and it's even better if Grover gets to come too!

I also plan to take him camping/hiking in some national/state parks in the coming months. Once it's not a bajillion degress anymore that will definitely be happening, so look out for those posts soon!

Out and about

2011-08-03T09:49:00.000-07:00

Since my last post, things have changed. I've started a new job and am adjusting to a schedule that includes a daily 5 a.m. wake-up (okay, okay, some days I get up at 5, other days I'm pushing 6) to take Grover for a run, get myself ready and hit the road around 7 to shuffle through D.C. traffic.

But, I've also mixed in some fun.

I'll back up to cover the shenanigans since I last wrote.

There have been a few trips back to Yorktown to visit family and friends and you know I always make a stop at the Yorktown market and waterfront. I'm becoming a regular. Even chatted with some vendors last weekend who have a recent CNU grad as a daughter. I mentioned that the campus looks completely different now than it did in my day, but Go Captains! The husband looked at me and said, "I thought you were maybe a junior." Flattered, I think, but no. In the same weekend Mom reminded me that I'm almost 30. Again, no, I'll be a mere 28 in a few weeks, but Mom assured me those two years go quickly and then I'll be 30. Guess I better get to work on the life to-do list since I'm running out of time.

There's also been a quick trip to New Jersey to visit my grandparents since I had some free time while I was freelancing. I spent a day at the Jersey shore (Spring Lake/Sea Girt, none of this Jersey shore from the TV show nonsense). Who spends a day at the beach with their grandmother? This girl. And she wore me out, we dropped our chairs and beach totes and she had me down at the water line and we walked quite a ways along the water and then back again. I'm pretty sure she has more energy than I do, need to bottle that.

While in Jersey, I also had a chance to catch up with my pal, Abbie, for dinner. She's in the Trenton area these days, but came out to the shore for dinner at The Parker House. My aunt and grandmother recommended it and we loved it. The place was packed so we put our names on the list and took a stroll on the boardwalk to enjoy what was amazing weather than night and catch up. After dinner we decided we had to have ice cream so we somehow navigated ourselves to the nearest Dairy Queen since the place I had seen earlier was closed. I think if you have an ice cream shop and you close, take down the giant ice cream cone sign! False advertising! But, we got our ice cream and went back to the boardwalk, only to realize we were enjoying our sweets as joggers were probably hating our guts. I went for an early morning run on the boardwalk the next morning, so I didn't feel too incredibly guilty. But just a little.

It was a quick trip, but I was determined to get back to DC in time to pick up Grover, since he does not enjoy the kennel, nor does my bank account. Crazy as he is, gotta love how happy he is to see me every time.

Up next came a visit from the boyfriend. He came to DC for July 4th, a great time to be in the city if you don't mind the chaos and heat. After collecting him at Reagan National we pitstopped at Potomac Yard. He needed a few things and I just had to pick up a copy of a new book I'd seen. I got the book and finished within a few days. My Year with Eleanor by Noelle Hitchcock. I recommend it.

We got situated and then geared up to brave the Metro into the city for PBS' Capitol 4th concert on the Capitol lawn. I love the concerts and watch them nearly every 4th and Memorial Day so I was stoked to see it live with Josh Groban and Steve Martin performing. Rain clouds toyed with us and we got a drizzle, but it made for spectacular views of the Capitol and we had a blast. I made poor Ben walk all over the place to get back to the Metro that night, because I rarely do anything the easy way.

Day two of boyfriend's visit included a drive to Baltimore for lunch at the Inner Harbor and the Aquarium. I was incredibly bummed that the dolphin show had been cancelled for the day, but so it goes. We checked out all kinds of aquatic life but I'm pretty sure my favorite was Calypso the three-flippered sea turtle. Of course the first thing we saw when we got into the aquarium was a live creature program for kids and the woman just happened to have an huge snake wrapped around her. I'm sure it's harmless and all, but if I've never told you, I'm terrified of snakes. Terrified. So much so I used to cover pictures of them in my biology textbooks with notebook paper or anything I could find. What's weird is as a kid, I thought snakes were cool. I touched the giant boa constrictor on our class trip to the zoo, we had a snake for a class pet, no problem. But when I was about 8, we were at my great-grandmothers house in rural New York. She lived on a creek so there was all kinds of wildlife, including garter snakes. Obviously, they won't hurt you, but when your father picks one up, sneaks up behind you and says, "Hey Jenny, turn around," and there's a snake hissing in your face, it has a somewhat traumatic effect. So began my fear of snakes. Ben asked if I was absolutely positive I didn't want to go check out the snake, I wanted to move as far as possible as quickly as possible from the snake. I couldn't even look at it.

The fish, sharks, sting rays, weird underwater creatures and all the other things at the aquarium were great. I even got to see the dolphins. Although all they did was swim in a circle around the tank that I decided was too small for them. Still, I love dolphins and was happy just to sit and watch them swim for awhile.

We wrapped up our full afternoon at the water wonderworld and then spent awhile wandering while I tried to make up my mind about what to eat for dinner. For all the crazy things I do in life and big moves and changes I make, I can be incredibly indecisive when it comes to chooing a restaurant. It's a character flaw I guess.

The next day, I made Ben get up early and we hit the road for, where else, Yorktown. I showed him around Williamsburg a bit, the rain sort of ruined my plans, but we strolled the historic streets anyway. I told him all the facts and trivia I could remember, but it wasn't all especially fresh onmy mind so I think I failed him the tour guide department. But, we were amused by the interpreters harassing the tourists. Apparently, they really get into character.

Alright, I'll break there. Next up, DC scavenger hunt.

It's been awhile.

2011-07-11T10:50:00.000-07:00

Hello all! I know I said I'd write more and then I left you hanging.

Lately I've been reading a lot of books, articles, etc. that make me want to grab my passport and jump on a plane. To anywhere.

Here's a great one from National Geographic. If I ever have kids, they will be traveling tots for sure. As kids, my parents took us all over. Granted, we didn't usually get out of school for it, the Air Force moved us all over the country and family get togethers had us road tripping in that old station wagon. By the time we were in high school, we'd at least driven through most of the continental U.S. We'd been to loads of national parks. We'd seen the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore, the Badlands, Black Hills, Alamo, Rio Grand, Gulf of Mexico, Statue of Liberty, Niagra Falls, Great Salt Lake, and more. I knew more about history from visiting the Alamo and from getting Halloween off from school because it was also Nevada's state independence day. Seeing the places you learn about in books has an amazing way of making it stick.

I also find it remarkable that the article cites a few schools in Virginia that discourage family travel, but the school highlighted as a good example is in Alabama.

And another one from Lonely Planet. I agree with the argument that travel makes you smarter and more interesting. You learn so much while you travel, not just about the place you happen to be, but about the people and yourself.

I also read the Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin and it certainly makes you think a bit more about what really matters to you, and what to let pass by. Also inspires you to focus more on those things than anything else.

Yesterday I finished My Year with Eleanor by Noelle Hancock and loved it. She's a journalist who gets laid off and sees a quote by Eleanor Roosevelt, "Do something that scares you every day." She creates a project and does something each day that she's afraid of from sky diving, diving with sharks, climbing Kilimanjaro, to standup comedy, tap dancing and talking to her boyfriend about the future/marriage. The whole project is absolutely the kind of thing I would do and just might make my own project for the next year that's a combination of overcoming fears, happiness and also crossing things off the to-do list.

That list includes things like finish my masters, improve my time in half marathons and a long list of foreign destinations, starting with Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania in October.

I highly recommend these articles and books, especially if need a little motivation, inspiration, validation or just that little reminder to go do the things you want to do.

Lend a helping hand.

2011-05-13T16:20:00.000-07:00

A lot of my travel is for me. But travel can be more.

I just came across a fantastic idea that a friend of mine posted to Facebook.

It's called Hope Floats and it allows cruise passengers to volunteer in several port cities. I love this idea. To me, a cruise isn't really traveling. But, so many people eagerly set sail that it's a great opportunity to volunteer abroad in areas that need it. My mom once asked to go on one of my crazy "adventures," but later admitted she'd rather go on a cruise because all your lodging, meals and, well, everything is sorted for you. That takes all the fun out of it, I told her.

There's a fair chance I'll cruise the Greek Isles one day or Alaska, but the only other way you're likely to get me on a cruise is a fantastic deal or a chance to volunteer with a project like Hope Floats.

When we travel, we learn so much and even if we don't take any tangible objects, we take so much home with us. We experience, we see, we hear, we feel, we live. To me, traveling is a sure fire way to see that it's a big world and I'm just a small piece in the big picture. I'm not rocketing to space or anything, but even a near-mishap in random foreign countries can teach you to not sweat the small stuff.

To get the most out of travel, we have to leave a little of ourselves in exchange for all that we take from the experience.

Volunteering in some way is a great way to do that.

When I studied in New Zealand for a semester, the program I was with offered a volunteer weekend at a few locations. We had to apply and only a few were chosen. I applied to volunteer on Quail Island off the South Island and we spent the weekend weeding, planting and other conservation type work. It was exhausting and I ate fish. If you know me, you know I hate fish, but when it's all there is to eat and you hauled trees up the side of a very steep hill all day, you'll eat fish.

The experience was great. New Zealand gave me so much and I gave just a little back. It was my home for six months, the least I could do was help out whenever possible.

There's something about giving without asking anything in return that I just can't put into words, but it puts a smile on my face. Sure, we all have bills to pay, but when an opportunity to help presents itself, I surely hope I'm a good enough person to always hold out my hand and help.

So, to you cruisers out there, check out Hope Floats. It's a great idea and I hope it's successful.

Some other volunteer options I've come across lately are helping out at animal shelters and working on organic farms. Quite a few people did the farming thing in New Zealand and who knows, maybe I'll try my hand at farming one of these days. Check out WWOOFing for more info. Here's another organization that offers volunteer opportunities in a variety of areas, ACDI/VOCA. There are tons of animal shelters and humane societies worldwide that offer volunteer opportunities and the same goes for orphanages and medical related work.

Next time you jet off somewhere, think about helping out. The place becomes your home, even if for a short time, and we can all benefit from a helping hand every now and then.

Meeting the locals...at home

2011-05-09T08:49:00.000-07:00

I went home to Yorktown to spend the Easter weekend with my family.

We dyed eggs on Saturday and had dinner on Sunday at a family friend's house. The family friend's house included my mom's good friend, my little sister's best friend. I used to babysit there and petsit the dog, Angel, and the cat.

This time, they had a guest for the semester, a girl from Estonia.

Seriously?!

I don't know if I believe in signs or coincidence but these kinds of things seem to happen a lot in my life and I've learned to take note.

The girl, Anett, is a high schooler and in my hometown attending my high school as part of a Rotary International program.

As soon as it came up that I was going to Estonia, her and I became fast friends and chatted the entire time about my visit.

To my relief, she told me that most speak English, so I'd be fine. I'll still learn a few words of Estonian though. It's just the proper thing to do as a traveler.

She said October will be cold, but still a good time to visit. Anett already offered a place to stay and that she'd play tour guide and show me around.

Anett is giving a presentation on her country as part of the program and she shared it with me to learn more about my next destination. By the end of the weekend, I was even more excited about my trip.

Another fun Estonia fact: The president grew up in New Jersey.

Airfare Woes

2011-04-19T08:37:00.000-07:00

This is most unfortunate news.

Delta is raising fares on domestic travel. I fly this airline frequently, although I have many, many issues with them. It usually comes down to they actually fly to the random places I decide to travel. And I like getting frequent flyer miles, so I try to stick with a handful of airlines and their partners.

Travel is one of the best ways to experience life in my opinion and not enough people do enough of it. But raising airfare won't encourage people to travel, unless they have to. It seems to me that if you lowered the fare and made it easier to travel, maybe more people would do it. Although, I admit, that might be wishful thinking since most Americans still don't have passport, but those numbers have gone up in recent years. If you don't have a passport, get one!

I'm about to buy a ticket to the Baltic states and almost did yesterday. But a lot can happen between now and September, or October (might have to shift my plan ever so slightly) and I hesitated. I'm hoping to chat with a friend who is an expert on the region first and then click the purchase button. I'm thinking I'll have my ticket by the end of next week. Sure it's expensive, but I've never once looked back at a trip and thought, gee, I wish I'd bought an iPhone instead.

Dots on a map.

2011-04-15T10:18:00.001-07:00

To get an idea of where I'm headed next, here's a map of Estonia and also the Baltic states.

Uh oh.

2011-04-15T09:50:00.000-07:00

While doing a quick search about Estonia travel, I came across some quick facts. Kind of a bummer when this one jumped out at me: "The Estonian language is a nightmare to learn."

Oh joy of joys.

I learned some Slovene (about five words) and that was a tough language. Did I mention I was chewed out by a Croation woman (in Croat!) for not knowing Croat? The gist of it, from what I could tell, what that I was a stupid American who didn't know anything about her country. Well, that's fine. But I wasn't in Croatia! Anyway.

The incident may scar me for life, so I will always try to learn at least a few words. I already bought the Baltic phrasebook since my trip plans include Latvia and Lithuania, but even the Estonians say their language is nightmarish, well, this should be interesting.

For kicks, here are some examples that I borrowed from their national tourism site:

Tere - Hello

Aitah - Thank you

Palun - Please

Ma armastan sind - I love you

Sa oled vaga ilus - You are very beautiful

Kus on... - Where is...

Kui palju... - How much is...

Uks kohv, palun - (I'd like to have) a coffee, please

I find some of these very amusing as being listed as useful phrases. I usually like to learn things like where's the train/bus/taxi/boat, the time, is there room in the hostel, how do i get to... I'm not especially concerned with telling strangers they're beautiful or professing my love to them, but that's just me.

Learning a few words, especially greetings, thanks and apologies have always been very useful to me.

I remember a Peruvian taxi driver giving me an impromptu Spanish lesson and hugging me when he gave me my bag and I came up with the proper response. There was also bartering with local artisans in my incredibily limited Spanish, meaning a lot of using fingers to count. A favorite was a game of charades at about 6 a.m. with a hostel owner in Aguas Calientas as I got off the train and had no idea where I would stay. I paid far more than I probably should have but it was the small town at the base of Machu Picchu where your options are sort of limited anyway. She brought me tea and food and was the sweetest women depsite my complete lack of comprehension of anything she said.

Between now and my trip in September (dates to be determined) I'll post updates on travel planning and also fun facts and news about Estonia and the Baltics. Until next time, I have a nightmare of a language to learn.

Happy Friday everyone!

Estonia: The adventure begins.

2011-04-10T10:22:00.000-07:00

No, I haven't booked a flight and I'm not posting this from a random Internet cafe in the middle of nowhere.

I'm sitting on the deck at my parent's house in Yorktown with Grover. (Finally, some spring weather!)

But, I've been getting very restless lately and I can only post so much on a travel blog without actually traveling anywhere. I've been talking about Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, but talking about it doesn't typically get a person very far. Plus, I started reading this book, The Art of Non-conformity by Chris Guillebeau. As if I needed any more motivation to jet off to random countries or make what some might consider outrageous life decisions. Grandma was right when she saw the book last week and said, "Oh my, what is she going to do now?"

So, I've decided that I'm going. In September (on the advice of a friend who knows the region well, he says April and September are best).

All great adventures start with the decision to go. Then you have to follow through. I know a lot of people who have trouble with that part. I don't usually. Sometimes I waffle a bit and I hate that, so then I do something crazy. Like buy plane tickets.

Several people of asked me how to plan a trip like the ones I take and I'll walk you through the process from beginning to end.

Starting now, I'm trip planning. And I'll write about it every week until I have my boarding pass in hand. Then I'll write about the trip on location in some random cafe in the middle of nowhere.

To start, pick a destination. Obviously. But the destination choice is crucial. Think about what you want to do and where you want to go and why. Everyone wants to go to Paris or Rome or Athens, and I do too, but honestly, anyone can do that and everyone does. I much prefer to travel not tourist. I choose places that not everyone goes to, sometimes places that people couldn't even pick out on a map. You'd be surprised how many people didn't know where Slovenia was. Really? It became a country in the early 1990s. Not yesterday. But in all fairness, I couldn't name all the countries in Africa to save my life.

I also really enjoy having some crazy story to go along with why I picked a country. I picked New Zealand for my semester abroad because it was so far and not as many people went and bottom line, my friend said do you like the beach? Me, not really. Well, go to New Zealand then. (He spent nine months in Australia after college graduation before starting his real life, meaning, getting a normal job.)

I went to Peru because I was looking for volunteer vacations and found one in Cusco working as a journalist for an English language publication there. Doing the math, I figured out it was about a quarter of the cost to go on my own and do whatever I wanted for two weeks in Peru.

While in Peru, I met an English guy who suggested Slovenia. I went to the bookstore when I got back, camped out on the bookstore floor and read all about the former Yugoslavia. The next year, I was getting chewed out in a cave for not knowing Croat. Note to self, learn a few words in the language of neighboring countries for next trip so as not to be verbally assaulted by angry woman on a train in a cave. Just saying.

Honestly, I don't remember how I chose Estonia, but I'm pretty sure I was again camped on the floor of the travel section, flipping through the guides. My criteria include lack of tourist mobs, out of the ordinary location, decent exchange rate or tanking local economy so a) it's cheaper for me and b) I can support them with my American dollars. I also seem to tend toward Eastern Europe. Can't explain it, but find the region interesting, beautiful, challenging and evolving.

Esotnia isn't too big, might as well go to Latvia and Lithuania while I'm there. It's perfectly logical really.

Next step, buy a guide book of some sort. I don't base my trips entirely on what Lonely Planet says, but a guide in an unfamiliar land is not a bad thing. I read the highlights, things to avoid, must sees, culture, food, language, etc.

Then I start mapping out the places I want to include on my trip. That's where I am now in planning. By next week, I should have a rough outline that will change about six gazillion times before I ever set foot on a plane and then it will change again once I'm in country. Always have to have a plan. Mostly so I can change it.

Check back soon to follow Jenn goes to Estonia. If you've been, feel free to share experiences and suggestions!

Looking back, looking forward

2011-03-08T10:48:00.000-08:00

About a year ago, I was on furlough. My solution to free time? Leave town.

And go to North Dakota and Pennsylvania. In late February/early March. I'm pretty sure my lungs froze when I walked out of the airport and, you know, breathed.

I took the week to visit a dear friend from high school who is currently stationed at Minot Air Force Base and a college friend who was working in Altoona, Pa.

Only I would go to the great white tundra in winter.

But, why not Minot. Again. And Abbie had visited me in 'bama, that's friendship!

While Abbie and I were exploring Pittsburg and she showed me around Altoona, we decided to make a quick trip down to DC. Her family lives here and it's one of my favorite places on Earth.

At the time, I was unhappy with work, my town and well, a lot of things. Maybe it was all the winter weather. But, as we were walking around DC, (for hours!) I kept saying how much I wanted to be back in DC. Abbie said, Jenn! Enough! Move here already!

I hesitated and said I needed to finish things before I felt ready to move again. To counter that, Abbie had the most genius idea. Make a list of those things I wanted to accomplish, do them, don't add to the list and then move.

On the drive back to Altoona, we made my list. As soon as I got back to 'bama, I got to work.

I checked off nearly everything on that list.

And now a year later, I'm sitting in a Starbucks in the DC area.

I accomplished that list and moved to DC.

There were ups and downs, big ones. There was a phenomenal amount of uncertainty, questions, fear and so on. But, I stuck to that list and I also made a list of things in 'bama I wanted to see/do so I'd be able to walk away and not feel like I'd left things unfinished.

Things remain on that list, but a significant chunk was checked off before I left last fall.

Now, I train for half-marathons on the National Mall. I start at Lincoln, run to the Capitol and back, passing the WWII Memorial, Jefferson, Washington and the Smithsonian. Every time I make the route, dodging tourists, slipping in ice, cursing that I'm still running, I remember that it wasn't long ago that I was walking that same route and wishing to be exactly where I am now.

That thought always puts a smile on my face. I'm sure strangers think I'm some crazy person laughing at her own inside joke, but I don't care. I know I set a goal and I accomplished it.

Oddly enough, I always have the same feeling when I set my mind to travel to a country and when I find myself there, I stop, take a breath and just look around. Taking a moment to just take it in is one of my favorite parts of any trip.

Knowing that just about every time I set my mind to something I end up having one of these moments is a pretty great feeling. And makes me ready to keep making those lists, of things to accomplish and places to go. Because I know, eventually, I'll have a check mark beside each and every one of them.

My other home.

2011-03-03T11:34:00.001-08:00

I recently posted about my walk down memory lane, Kiwi style.

Rambling on and on, I wrote about how much I loved my time in Christchurch, New Zealand and how it was probably the experience that kicked off my intense and always growing love of travel and exploration.

Needless to say, I've been shocked and saddened to read and see the images from Christchurch since the earthquake last week.

That city was my home away from home. That city is where, at 21 and 22, I spent six months learning, exploring, growing and experiencing. I have a strong love of that city, the country and the people there and it's heartbreaking to see the destruction and the lives cut short.

But it's also incredible to see how the local newspaper has pressed forward, as a source of information, remembrance, celebration and communication for the city, country and the world. Their office was impacted and several people were trapped inside. Still, they published.

It's also uplifting to see how residents have helped each other, complete strangers as well as family and friends through what will be the most difficult experience in recent memory for most Kiwis.

As a student in a NZ history class in 2005, we learned at great length about how the Kiwis were a people who could make do. Seriously, I'm pretty sure that was the title of a chapter in my book. They had suffered many setbacks, many wrongs, many hurts, but they always carried on. They always survived. They always made do.

It's a few years later and that seems to still be very much the case.

The people we met in Christchurch treated us as fellow residents, students, friends. I and most of my fellow study abroad students loved every minute of our time there and most of us talk about going back if we haven't already. We click through each other's photo albums and reminisce. I also credit my time in New Zealand with changing me for the better. I was always sort of high strung and easily stressed in college. My time there, on several occasions in particular, proved to me that so many things didn't matter and things could not go according to plan and yet life would carry on and it would be alright. I truly mellowed from my time there and began to appreciate simple things so much more and also developed an incredible ability to wing it. Maybe it was my natural disposition, but I'm pretty sure New Zealand and her people played a big part in bringing that out in me. I'll be forever grateful to that and the people there who always seemed to help me out, or simply say, "It'll all work out." It always did.

It's a land of promise. A land of strength. And for a time, it was my home.

What's that Watson? We're going where?

2011-02-17T10:14:00.001-08:00

Love this column.

http://www.cnn.com/2011/OPINION/02/17/pinch.watson.humans/index.html?hpt=C2

Interesting take on airline fees

2011-02-09T08:39:00.001-08:00

Not sure how much I agree with everything here, but interesting perspective. Paying for a service should increase quality, but if you follow my travels, you know my bags have been lost many, many times. They've apparently been dropped in puddles, unpacked and crammed back together with far less effort than I made the first time and things have been lost in the process. Granted I often still check a bag since I don't want to measure out my liquids for carry on and gate checking always seems to slow me down more than actually checking a bag.

Still, travel on.

http://www.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/02/07/airline.fees.column/index.html?iref=allsearch

Memory lane, kiwi style

2011-01-30T14:34:00.000-08:00

This week's Travel Dispatch newsletter e-mail included this gem about my former nation of residence (just six months, but still, I like claiming it).

The New York Times article about New Zealand, know to the Maori's as Aotearoa or "land of the long white cloud," is a walk down memory lane for me.

Adventure seekers flock to New Zealand. I went because I had resigned from my college newspaper and as "newspaper girl" simply didn't know who I was anymore. Sounds silly now, but at 20, I was quite upset. A friend of mine, who is a whopping five years older -- again, at 20, it seems bigger than it does now at 27 since I realize I had no idea what I was doing at 25, I took advice from that guy? He had spent a year after college traveling the world, including nine months in Australia, New Zealand's neighbor that often overshadows New Zealand, sadly.

At lunch one day, when I was having a woe is me moment and whatever will I do with my life without the newspaper meltdown, he said to me, "Jenn, you are not tied down. You can do anything."

"Like what?"

"Go abroad."

"Where?"

"Do you like the beach?"

"Not really."

"Go to New Zealand."

"Okay."

Seriously, that's how it went down.

I went home that night after classes and my parents where in the entry way or kitchen or somewhere near the door when I walked in. I lived at home that year, my junior year, because it was only about 20 miles from campus and I barely had time to sleep, so I figured it was ridiculous to spend a few thousand dollars a year for a room I spent so little time in.

Mom and/or Dad: "How was your day?"

Me: "I quit the newspaper and I'm going to New Zealand."

Blank stares from the parents.

But, not too much later, I was on a plane to the adventure capital of the world.

In the article, the author cheats death a few times (okay, not really, but you do feel that way doing some of these activities.)

When we arrived in New Zealand (we, being all the other American students who were part of the program) we could go zorbing, which is rolling down a hill in a giant plastic bubble. I opted out of that one since I hadn't really slept in a few days and was pretty sure I'd get sick. But, we also went to the hot springs and caving near Roturua on the North Island.

During a break in classes, I spent two weeks exploring the South Island, which is where I lived at the University of Canterbury in Christchurch.

I happened to win a pass for bungee jumping in Queenstown, so I did it. Otherwise, I'm pretty positive I wouldn't have. I'd never had an overwhelming desire to jump of a bridge in a canyon, 141 feet above a river, but you know, why not?

Before hand, I wasn't too nervous. Even getting the safety briefing and getting out to the bridge, I was fine. Until the girl ahead of the kid ahead of me couldn't decide to jump or not. She was going to do, then she wasn't. Then she was, then she wasn't. Finally, the bungee guy said jump or leave. She jumped. The kid in front of me had no issues.

Then it was my turn. Creeping up to the edge, 141 feet above the river looked a whole lot higher. I was all set and firmly tied to the bridge that I was about to jump off of. The guy said, "Okay, go for it. Five, four, three..."

"Hold on, hold on!" (You actually to jump off a bridge, you know, exactly the opposite of when your mom says, if so and so jumped off a bridge, would you? Well, yes, mom, I would.)

"What, are you scared?"

"No, I just wasn't ready. Start over!"

"Five, four, three, two..."

I closed my eyes and more fell than jumped. I just couldn't throw myself off a bridge at 141 feet above a river, but with my eyes closed, I sort of just leaned forward until gravity did the work.

My eyes stayed firmly shut until I had hit the bottom (just above the water line) and was starting to bounce back up and down. It was kind of spectacular to just be floating in the air for a second (despite the fact that in reality you're hurtling toward water/earth and certain death without the nifty bungee cord they invented at AJ Hackett.

After you finish your jump, you're just hanging from a bridge above the river. Some guys float out to you in a little raft and with a plastic pipe they hold up to you and you grab on, then basically dump you in the raft and float you back to the river's edge, where you have to climb back up the 141 feet you just fell from. Pretty much straight up. I found that my legs were a little like jelly after the jump, so getting back to the top where my friends were waiting was tough work.

They'd been shouting USA, USA, USA! as I jumped, but I hardly noticed, the whole hurtling toward a river thing. But, I bought the dvd of the entire event to prove to everyone at home that I did in fact jump off a bridge and I wouldn't probably not want to do it again. You can hear the patriotic chant in the background. Funnier still, because the friends with me were an Irish lass and lad, a girl from England and a girl from Germany.

Up next, we got back in our rental car and headed to see the All Blacks (the national rugby team) play South Africa in the Tri-Nations cup. We won of course.

There was also horseback riding in Queenstown. My horse, Sledge, was in the Lord of the Rings. He wasn't a prominent horse, but still, he was more famous than the others and he knew it. So we fell further and further behind the group, because Sledge would go at exactly his own pace, because he's a celebrity.

But, toward the end, he decided we should catch up. The guide had taught me how to trot, in case we got behind just as we did, but Sledge would have none of it. I did what I was told to make him go faster and instead, we galloped the rest of the way, blowing past the others. I'm also glad the guide gave me this nugget of advice: if nothing else, hold on to the mane for dear life. I did. But, I loved galloping. The guide told me she'd never seen a first time rider gallop so well. Apparently, most people are absolutely frantic if the horse takes off like that. I asked if I could do it again.

I'll have to continue this later, because there are many more adventures to write about, but this is getting a bit long.

Read the NY Times article and then book a flight to New Zealand. Do it. You know you want to.

Bought the book

2011-01-30T13:49:00.001-08:00

It was payday this week and after roaming through Barnes and Noble looking for an entirely different book I realized I should stop stalling and just buy the book.

The Lonely Planet guide for Estonia that is.

So I jumped on the Lonely Planet site where I get extra discounts for participating in the Traveler's Pulse surveys. I bought the Estonia guide, phrasebook for Baltic languages and since free shipping was offered on orders more than $40, I went ahead and bought the Europe on a Shoestring guide, because I figured I could easily pop over to Europe and explore bits and pieces as I go. I found an old Europe guide to be very handy when I went to Slovenia, I simply ripped out the pages for Paris and Venice and a few others since I had time for day trips to those mega tourist cities while I was there. Easier than carrying the whole book.

For the most part, once I've bought the guide, it means I'll be buying a plane ticket in the near future. I will go to Estonia this year, so buying the book is merely some mental reassurance I guess. Once the books arrive and I start planning, well consider me gone!

Unrest in Egypt

2011-01-28T09:25:00.000-08:00

When I woke up this morning I had a message from my friend Abbie about Egypt. She came to visit me in Alabama for my 25th birthday and we made a plan to go to Egypt for our 30th birthdays. We're both August babies and only 20 days apart in age.

We've been sending books about Egypt travel, e-mails about travel deals and more for the last few years and even met an Egyptian while walking on the National Mall last year. He was looking for the Air and Space Museum.

So we are both carefully watching the events unfolding there now and are deeply saddened by the unrest, but hope that we will still be able to visit the country soon and that the people will maintain their freedoms and that despite the violence, will become a stronger nation still and the events will simply add to the country's incredibly rich history.

For information on what's happening in Egypt: http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2011/01/28/clashes-erupt-in-cairo-elbaradei-told-to-stay-put-cnn-camera-confiscated/

Dixie to the Commonwealth

2011-01-16T18:22:00.000-08:00

I haven't written about the big move yet. And now that a few months have passed, it's all much funnier to me.

After weeks of quasi-packing, I finally had things pretty much ready to go. I had reserved a truck online, about four hours before I wanted to pick it up. Lesson learned, because they don't just keep tons of trucks available when you need them. The woman at the pick-up spot was pleasant and she told me they had the truck but not the car tow. Minor detail.

It might surprise you to learn that I am quite the planner. And my plans often come with multiple contingency plans. If this, then this. Pretty sure that comes from my dad, being a career military officer. Dad almost always had a plan.

Having a plan means for easy adaptation when the first one doesn't work.

With no car tow, a truck was no good to me.

So, I headed down the road to a Penske rental shop to find out if they had a truck and how much it might cost me. (Because moving yourself seems like it would be cheaper, but honestly, I'm not so sure that's the case.)

The only truck they had available to leave on my originally scheduled day was 26 feet long. Add a car tow to that, I would basically have been driving a semi, compared to my everyday Corolla.

The rental man said I should go look at the truck to see if I thought I could drive it.

Standing in the grass on the side of 231 at the Penske shop, I was practically in tears.

Ben, the boyfriend, now making his first appearance on the blog, was with me and offered to come back and help me pick up and load the first available 16 foot truck and car tow a few days later.

The delay bought me a few more days of "hey, Jenn's moving, let's have a get together!" and a "last Waffle Wednesday!" that turned into waffles, wine and whiskey Wednesday.

Finally, the truck was loaded and Grover and I were ready to hit the road. After a long, hot day of loading, strategically positioning boxes and furniture, putting the car on the tow and managing to slice my hand on a mirror, we waved goodbye to Montgomery.

We spent the night in Auburn and had breakfast with Ben and then were on our way. We were behind schedule and had to pitstop for a nap. Grover slept the entire time. For misbehaving fool of a puppy, he does very well in the car. His dog bed was scrunched in between the seats in the truck and he was the perfect pup.

Everything was going fine, I was navigating my monster of a truck through 'bama, Georgia and had made it to North Carolina with no incidents. I made it through gas stations, stopped for food and by the time we were close to our hotel it was late. I was really looking forward to getting out of the truck and crashing for the night. We got off the interstate to see the hotel I had strategically picked for its proximity to the interstate and lack of turns, but the entrances weren't especially well marked and I overshot. Thinking I could go a little further ahead and turn around, I found I was in a neighborhood, had no idea where the road went and it was late. I wanted to sleep!

I saw a street sign that was a something "lane" and thought, my parents' house is on a "lane" and it's a huge cul de sac. So I turned left and was ready for the easy cul de sac.

I was devastated when the road went straight and ended. Just ended into woods. Now I had a major problem. The road was narrow, had ditches, driveways and parked cars on both sides.

Exhaustion, stress and frustration took over and I started to cry. But, that's pointless, so I attempted to back up, since the girl at the Penske place definitely lied to me when she said the tow would turn the same way as the truck and not fishtail. I tried a few times to back straight up a few times and each attempt failed. Miserably. At the end of the lane, there was a grassy front yard of a house that was far back from the road.

It's about 1 a.m. by this time and the yard was looking good. My genius idea at this point was to just drive through the yard to turn around. There was a small dip in the grass, but I thought I would be able to pull it off.

Wrong again.

The tow connection got stuck on the road, just before the yard line.

Now I'm freaking out.

I tried to go forward. Nothing. Considered going backward and then remembered how well that went while in the road. I got out to look at the damage and even knocked on the door of the house since there was light in the front window, like someone watching a movie. And they had trucks so in my mind I thought maybe they could help.

No one answered. Probably a good thing, because who knows what I would say and who knows who lived there.

I walked back to the truck, looked again at how stuck I was, and sat on the grass and just broke down for a few minutes.

Enough! You have to do something I scolded myself.

Call dad? It's the middle of the night and he can't do anything about it. No.

Call Ben? He's at work and can't do anything either. No.

Wait! I have AAA! I called the number and thankfully the woman who answered the phone was sympathetic to my problem as I was still crying a little and running the risk of falling into hysteria.

Apparently, AAA couldn't help me, but she gave me phone numbers of some local towing companies. I called one who told me they had a $275 an hour fee. Keep in mind that I had quit my job and hadn't started the new one yet. My bank account was running on about as empty as my energy and rational thought that night.

The first company was about 20 miles away and I didn't know how stuck I was so I was hesitant to agree to $275 rate. I asked if he knew of closer companies and thankfully the man was kind enough to help me find his competition. Maybe it was the near tears crazy girl calling in the middle of the night.

Then it dawned on me that I'd paid for insurance with Penske and maybe that covered getting stuck in a ditch and needing a tow. I called Penske and she found a closer one that also cost a small fortune for ditch removal and the girl wasn't sure if my insurance would cover it all. But who cares, it's the middle of the night, get me out of the ditch already!

The tow truck showed up about an hour later and it was a huge tow truck. I mean huge. It probably could have pulled a tanker truck down the interstate without a hint of effort. They weren't sure how stuck I was and the Penske girl told them I had a 20 or 30 foot truck so they brought the big one to cover all contingencies -- hey, I like a planner.

The man was very nice and he took a look at my ditch situation and said he'd try to back it up first. He got to the driver's door about the time I remembered Grover was in the front seat. Yikes! For a 50-pound puppy, he's very protective. Grover barked and barked but the man was nice enough to stop for a few minutes and stand still and let Grover check him out. Grover still wasn't buying it, but I took him out to the yard and we sat in the grass while the tow man worked. I kept apologizing for the barking but the tow man told me that Grover was doing his job and I was lucky to have such a good dog. He didn't jump, bite or try to attack, but he stayed by my side and let everyone know that they weren't getting close to mom without his approval.

Within about 30 minutes the tow man had my truck out of the ditch and he turned it around so I could drive straight back out off the lane and to my hotel, which was a half-mile from the ditch. We were on our way again and the tow man even called about 20 minutes later to make sure Grover and I were okay and had made it to the hotel before he got all the way back to the shop. I hate that I can't remember his name, but I will be forever grateful to the man who rescued me that night.

By the time I got to bed it was at least 3 a.m. and then couldn't fall asleep for awhile, but slept in a bit later than I had originally scheduled (I may be a planner, but I also consider my plans a mere guideline and there's room for adaptation). The entire day I was stressed that the tow wasn't properly connected since I had gotten it stuck in a ditch. I held steady at 55 miles per hour, slowing me down considerably, but by the time I hit the Virginia line I was feeling much better. VIRGINIA!

I took the route that isn't the quickest to my parents' house, but is the straightest with the least turns. Of course I still missed my exit at one point since it's not my usual route and you can't change lanes all that quickly in a monster of a truck.

Finally home in Yorktown, I turned the truck around in the cul de sac of our lane and dad came out to meet us. Grover barked at him too until he remembered dad takes him for walks and plays with him and tries to get Grover to sit and watch football with him.

At home, we all chatted and mom and I broke out the wine. After that trip, I needed it.

Up next, I left the pup with my parents and I headed up to Alexandria to meet my soon to be roommate for some apartment shopping. I was thrilled to be rid of that truck and finally getting settled into the new place that we picked out with a kitchen I'm in love with and a fantastic deck. I slept like a rock after moving in, with just Danielle and I carrying everything including my queen mattress, and it was raining.

This is my life. Chaos.

Seattle in images

2011-01-16T17:54:00.001-08:00

Hoh Rainforest

In case you were wondering how big that tree was, I hugged it.

Lake Crescent

La Push

Lake Crescent

Duwamp, Duwamp

2011-01-16T15:40:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, the rest of the Seattle trip sort of runs together. I've even made a list on paper, trying to remember what we did on what day and in what order. So, I'll go over everything we did, but I make no promises that it will go in order or be on the right day. It happens.

But after I met up with my SPJ friend, Dana, she invited me to watch a taping of the local midday talk show at King 5. The best part? David Gregory of Meet the Press was a guest.

Being mega journalism nerds, we were stoked to meet him. And Dana asked him a question. And he took a picture with us. Yeah, we're those kind of nerds. But, come on! He's David Gregory!

That was definitely the highlight, but the rest of the show was highly entertaining. The fair was in town, so we ate fair food. Dana made me try chocolate covered bacon...absolutely gross! I had to throw away most of it. The guy who runs the fair food saw me toss it and he told me he didn't like the chocolate bacon either. But, fried cookie dough and fried pickles were okay. Other less appetizing options were on the table, but as adventurous as I am, it doesn't extend to food.

There was also a pizza tossing segment with maybe the most hilarious kid I've ever seen. He was tossing pizza dough all over the place and saying hysterical things and when the farm animals came on later, he decided he wanted to see them, so he just walked right back onto the set and pet them.

We were laughing so hard we were crying.

After the show, I headed back to meet my parents and one sister. They'd spent the morning at the aquarium. The littlest sister had orientation that morning.

We headed over to the ferry and crossed the water to Vashon Island. A friend of mine, who I met while stranded during a train strike in Italy in 2009, was working at a farm there. She was running the Pacific Crest Farm, which is part of a Montessori school there. I was excited to see my friend Jen and I thought my sister, Sam, would enjoy the visit since she had spent the summer interning on a farm and was very interested in agriculture and organic farming.

Jen and Sam discussed farming techniques, Jen and I caught up. She got married earlier that year at the farm and I had met her fiance as well while were waiting for a train to take us to Slovenia. Our Italian and Slovene language skills were limited, so it was tough. But we made friends with a local who spoke both languages and was going our way. He bought all of us coffee and we just chatted while we waited.

On the ferry to Vashon is when I asked my mom if I could move home as a back up plan if I quit my job and there was some overlap in my employment. She said yes, although she later admitted she had forgotten about the puppy. I sent in my resignation that night.

After our afternoon on the farm, we had to catch the ferry back to Seattle. We headed back to the University of Washington to pick up Maura. We grabbed some dinner and then headed to the Olympic National Forest.

I'm pretty sure we stopped and spent the night in Bremerton. The next day we headed into the park, in the rain, which was not especially promising. We stopped first at Lake Crescent, which is absolutely stunning. The rainy weather created a mist over the lake and the mountains that was just beautiful and serene.

After breaking the serenity of the lake with our family ridiculousness and photo taking, we headed further into the forest to the Hoh Rainforest. Mom wanted to do one of the hikes, which seemed like a great idea, except by then it was pouring. We were soaked. But, we did one of the loops, which was completely worth it.

I think we went to La Push that afternoon, or the next day, either way, we went to La Push, which is on Washington's coast. Mom really wanted to go and despite the rain, we went. The rain let up by the time we got there, but it was cold on the beach and overcast. I collected some rocks, I always do things like that. I have bags, jars, and more of rocks, shells, sticks, whatever I find. We found some cool driftwood, too, which will be another awesome joke for me, Sam and my Dad.

It was a pretty fun day actually.

That night we stayed in Forks. It's a middle of nowhere kind of town, but it's where the Twilight sage is set and basically the vampire, warewolf, whatever, theme has taken over the small town. We ate at Pacific Pizza where at least half the menu is Twilight themed. Oye.

The next day we headed back to Seattle, after stopping at Hurricane Ridge. It was cold and windy that day and in the mountains it was even colder But I doubled up on sweatshirts and convinced my mom to do the short hike to the top with me. The sun was peeking through the clouds and we got some spectacular views from the top.

Back in Seattle, I went for an early morning run along the water and we met Sam's friend, Bailey, at Pike Place Market. We hung out at the market for awhile then went by the Seattle Public Library, which has some pretty impressive architecture.

We also grabbed tickets for the Underground Tour, which I highly recommend. Our tour guide was Jerry, who was hysterical. I think he was an actor and writer, but he was incredibly entertaining and we had a blast. He called us Rowell girls, the farmer, the journalist and the engineer. And of course, we were also Virginia!

We went to mass that night and afterward, Maura and I met up with Sam and Bailey for dinner. Well, first we took the ferry, I think we went to Bainbridge, and then back again. Just for kicks. It was chilly, but clear and beautiful on the water. Just seeing the city at night was pretty spectacular and refreshing. It had been a busy week and for me, a bit life changing, since I quit my job without much of a plan. Yeah, sort of my style, so taking a minute to just enjoy the view was a fantastic idea.

Put four girls together, three of them being related, and it takes us awhile to decide where to eat dinner. We ended up at the Pike Brewing Company. Decent food, decent beer and lots of fun, it was a great way to wrap up our week in Seattle.

Old Cahawba photos

2011-01-16T12:25:00.001-08:00

Just a few from our ghost town outing.

'bama's Ghost Town

2011-01-16T10:32:00.000-08:00

Going back a few months since I hadn't posted it yet, but over the summer my friend, Chris, and I ventured out roughly an hour from Montgomery and explored Old Cahawba.

Cahawba was once the state capital, from 1820 to 1826, and a thriving river town until is was basically abandoned after the Civil War.

Despite the great weather, considering it was a Dixie summer, hardly anyone was out at Old Cahawba, which is not far from Selma.

We couldn't find anyone at the Welcome Center, but we found a brochure with a map and information and another brochure that was a guide for a nature trail. The guide was written in the voice Anna Gayle Fry, a Civil War-era resident of the town.

The guide pointed out different plants and the things they were used for during the war. Chris and I decided that if a similar situation of rationing and limited resources and civil war recurred, the average American wouldn't have the slightest idea how to use natural products for clothing, food, medicines and the like. We may have iPods and smart phones, but we aren't as industrious and resourceful as we once it seems.

After we finished the nature trail, we headed over to the ruins. There really isn't much left of the original structures, which is unfortunate. But, some columns from one of the houses remains. If I remember right, the house belonged to one of the businessmen who helped build the once boomtown.

Cahawba had been occupied as early as 4,000 years ago by Indians and DeSoto may have visited in 1540, according to the brochure published by the Alabama Historical Commission.

The town sits where two rivers converge and the area was prone to flooding. That convinced people to move the capital to Tuscaloosa in 1826 and Cahawba was largely abandoned.

But, the town recovered and became a social and commercial center. It became a major distribution point for cotton that was being shipped down the Alabama River on its way to Mobile. A railroad line came through in 1859 and by the time the Civil War started, the town's population was 3,000.

But during the war, the Confederate government seized the railroad and took the rails to extend a railroad nearby. Then a prison was established near the town center for captured Union troops with lice. Another flood in 1865 and the relocation of the county seat to Selma in 1866 contributed to the downfall of the town. Within 10 years, the town had become a ghost town, but during Reconstruction it became a meeting place for freedmen and the city became the "Mecca of the Radical Republican Party," according to the state historical commission.

But, that group soon moved on and by 1900 most of the buildings had been dismantled, burned, or otherwise destroyed.

Now, just bricks and dirt mounds exist at Cahawba. There isn't much to see, but it is fascinating to walk and imagine what the town might have looked like in it's glory days. You can see part of the perimeter of the prison, although now it's only a line of bricks and as far as we could tell, they didn't line up with the diagram on the info boards. But, those were just diagrams and it's been awhile, so I guess expecting it to be just right was unreasonable. The columns were interesting and did actually look like the picture (that never happens!) but that was about all that was there.

We agreed that the site was a walk through time, but that so much more could be done with it. Not to develop it or turn it into a ridiculous tourist site, but to have better signs with more information and to better maintain the site. I never knew the site existed or how much a part of Alabama history it was until I just happened upon some information in a state tourism book.

It's like many things in Alabama. It's a different place, sure, but it's a state with a sometimes surprisingly rich history. But, unless you go looking for it, you often don't know it's there.

Get your passports ready!

2011-01-11T16:59:00.000-08:00

If you need some travel inspiration, check out this list. It's got some great ideas, some classic destinations, some off the beaten track spots and some I hadn't thought of yet. Plus, the list includes my next planned destination -- Estonia.

Grand Illumination

2010-12-11T09:11:00.001-08:00

Here's video links to the Grand Illumination, one of the very best fireworks displays I've ever seen.

Enjoy!

(Click the number to see the video)

Grand Illumination 1: I absolutely love the little kid laughing at the end of this one.

Grand Illumination 2

Grand Illumination 3: Yes, there's a tree in my way, but still cool. And the building you see is the Capitol.

Grand Illumination 4

Grand Illumination 5

Grand Illumination 6

Grand Illumination 7: It's sideways, sorry, can't figure out how to rotate it, will work on that!

Grand Illumination 8

Grand Illumination 9: The fireworks that sound like crashing waves were my favorite! Plus, this is the finale.

Fife and Drums

2010-12-11T08:57:00.000-08:00

Because it takes forever to upload video on here, I'm uploading all the video from this year's Grand Illumination on YouTube and will post the links here.

Here's the Fife and Drums. The image is terrible, we were too far away and in the dark for this to really work, but the audio did not let me down.

To hear the colonial sounds of Christmas, go here!

Now that's handy.

2010-12-07T13:31:00.001-08:00

A luggage fee calculator? Sweet.

http://www.aolnews.com/weird-news/article/outraged-traveler-builds-calculator-to-beat-airline-baggage-fees/19740785

I See You.

2010-12-07T11:31:00.001-08:00

Tips for travelers who have problems and how to -- legally -- document them.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40421711/ns/travel-travel_tips/

Colonial Christmas

2010-12-06T18:42:00.000-08:00

You won't see any Christmas trees in Colonial Williamsburg, but the place isn't any less festive.

The colonial city and first capitol of Virginia is decked out every holiday for the Grand Illumination, which is one of my all-time favorite holiday activities.

The Grand Illumination started in 1934 with candles illuminating a few of the exhibit buildings and was known as the White Lighting.

The event has grown and Fifes and Drums and fireworks were added in 1959. This year, the event in the restored 18th-century town included massive firework displays in three locations in the historic town.

As the Fife and Drums finished up and the spotlights went dark, white lights in a house near the Capitol where we were watching flipped on, noting the event's simple beginnings.

I remember dragging a college roommate to the Illumination one year and it was then I fell in love with it. As kids, my parents had taken us on several tours of the colonial town and we never could get into it. But by the time I was in college, I'd started falling in love with Colonial Williamsburg and also my hometown, Yorktown. The colonial part anyway.

That was probably 2003 or 2004 when I went the first time and I don't remember it being anywhere near as crowded as it was this year. I'd heard marketing spots on the radio since I moved home to Virginia, enticing people to spend a weekend in the colonial town for all the festivities from an earlier era. I was glad to see the crowds flocking to the town for some history and fireworks, because I know the foundation needs to funds and support to keep operating and maintaing the well preserved colonial town. But that was met with a frustration that so many people were in my town and blocking my view of an event I'd loved for years.

It was also quite cold and parking was a mess and my mom was really not enjoying the cold, but once the fireworks started it was completely worth it. This year's Grand Illumination was one of the best fireworks displays I've ever seen and watching it light up the sky over Virginia's original Capitol was really quite cool.

That was Sunday, Dec. 5. The day before, I'd also dragged my parents out to Williamsburg for the Green Spring Garden Club's 51st annual Christmas Homes Tour.

The tour takes you into houses that typically aren't open to the public and they've been decorated in what would have been traditional styles in the town's colonial days.

It was pretty cold that day too and we got a late start so then we had to pick up the pace once we made it to town. That was not helped by the enormous lines in front of some of the houses. So we went out of order to help beat some of the crowd.

First, we went into Masonic Lodge No. 6. The current structure was built in the early 1900s replacing the original 1774 building that served as the Mason's meeting hall since the 1750s. We didn't find this building as interesting as the others, but I did learn about Masonic voting from one of the Masons there that day. It's also where the term 'black balled' comes from. They have a wooden box with a tray built into it. The tray had a handle, which is hollow, and drops to the bottom of the box. Originally, the tray held white and black balls. You put white into the tube for a yay vote, black for nay. Each member would have a black and white ball and with one hand would drop the color of their vote into the tube, the other back into the tray. But, as members aged some couldn't see the colors anymore so they made the black ball a cube, but the term 'black balled' stuck.

Next, we headed to the Tayloe House, which sold for six hundred pounds in 1759. The house was once home to John Tayloe, one of the wealthiest men in colonial Virginia. The colonel also owned Mt. Airy in Richmond County.

Next, the Grissell Hay Lodge House, which was built in the early 1700s. During the Revolution, the house was occupied by Rev. James Madison, then president of the College of William and Mary (also in Williamsburg) after Cornwallis and his troops took possession of the president's house on campus.

The William and Mary president's house was next and it had a long line and was packed on the inside. It took us forever to get through there since we waited in line and then once inside some of the staff gave mini-presentations on the artwork, the furniture, the architecture and more. It was interesting, but harder to take in the house when you're crammed in to a colonial house (even the big ones tend to have smaller hallways and rooms) and people keep talking at you. All the same it was an interesting Georgian style house built in the 1730s. It's the oldest official residence for a college president in the U.S.

Last on our tour was my favorite, the Lightfoot House. It's where the president of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation lives currently with his wife, Nancy. Also a Georgian house, it was built around 1730 and was built as a double tenement but was brought into its present form in the mid-18th century. It's also one of the few homes in Colonial Williamsburg to have a balcony.

I think what I liked most about the house though was that Nancy was at the door welcoming people in and telling them about the house. Her husband, president of the foundation that runs the historic town, was at the William and Mary football game. It was nice to see them care so much about the house and the town and the people coming to see it. Plus, she was funny and friendly. She told my mom about squirrels eating the fruit from the wreaths on the door the night before.

Everything in Colonial Williamsburg is decorated as it would have been in the colonial days, meaning all the Christmas decorations are natural and appropriate for the time period. Many of the wreaths on doors were made with fruit and other live greens. No one had Christmas trees since O Tannenbaum didn't show up in Williamsburg until the 1840s when a European political refugee brought the tradition with him.

Christmas and the holiday season is my favorite time of year and my love of the colonial towns where I grew up continues to grow, so the combination of the two is a perfect holiday treat for me. If you've never been, I recommend it. The colonial towns are great any time of year, but I think they're especially lovely during the holidays. Many of the activities are free, and when they're not, the funds are supporting the foundation and the upkeep of these colonial gems.

I didn't it to Yorktown's lighted boat parade this year, but I hear that event has also become quite popular. I went to the first one during college and certainly plan to go again next Christmas. You should too.

Happy Holidays y'all.

A handful of photos

2010-12-06T18:37:00.001-08:00

My mom and I at La Push.

La Push

Photos!

2010-12-06T18:03:00.000-08:00

I'm uploading loads of photos on the blog's facebook page, look for it, Jenn's Travels. I'll also upload some more here. And video is coming too.

Travel Thanks.

2010-12-06T17:25:00.001-08:00

I was reading my November issue of Real Simple magazine not too long ago and came across a blurb from a woman who's dream it was to go to New Zealand.

It occurred to me how lucky I was to have spent a semester abroad in a place that someone else might dream their entire life of visiting.

It also inspired to me to think about the things I'm thankful for, although I'm a but late, I figure any day is a good day to give thanks.

I'm thankful that I spent that semester in New Zealand and was able to take a quick trip to Australia while on that side of the globe in 2005. The semester made me realize how entirely capable I was of getting on a plane and going just about anywhere -- on my own. I didn't need much, just a rucksack, map, and a most strategic use of limited funds.

I'm thankful for all the trips that came after that semester in New Zealand and that each time I gain confidence and boldness and a willingness to do it all again despite the cold showers, weird diets, long rides on uncomfortable buses, not speaking the language, getting lost, missing train stops and losing things.

I'm thankful that despite some of the heartache this year, the uncertainty, the self-doubt and the frustration, that things really do work out. That I somehow managed to quit my job without another one lined up, but also managed to get a new one before I hit the road back to my mighty Commonwealth and spend these holidays with family and friends.

I'm thankful that despite loads of traffic and road construction, I get to see the Washington Monument, the Capitol and more on my drive to and from work, my way to church, to the grocery store and the dog park.

Which reminds me, I'm thankful for my puppy, Grover, even if he does eat my shoes, clothes, furniture and my Christmas tree and pees on the carpet. He teaches me patience, responsibility and I know that his entire wellbeing relies on me. He rewards me with a wagging tail.

I'm thankful that I spent the weekend at home with my parents for my dad's birthday and we went to Colonial Williamsburg for the festivities, including the Grand Illumination (post coming!)

It's been a crazy year, but it's proven that anything is in fact possible, and for that, I am very grateful.

Travel Alert

2010-12-06T11:12:00.001-08:00

Didn't make it to Ecuador while I was in Peru, but heard good things. Hope this volcanic action doesn't cause too much damage or scare travelers away once the ash has cleared.

http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/americas/12/04/ecuador.volcano/index.html?hpt=Sbin

Headlines from previous trips

2010-12-06T07:26:00.001-08:00

This is crazy. I was in Lima in 2008. Don't think I wandered as far as this particular part of the city, but still crazy.

http://www.cnn.com/2010/CRIME/12/04/peru.bank.hostages/index.html?eref=rss_topstories&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+rss%2Fcnn_topstories+%28RSS%3A+Top+Stories%29

Down in the Duwamps

2010-12-05T12:14:00.000-08:00

Seattle, was once called Duwamps, before it was renamed for Chief Sealth Seattle of the Duwamish and Suquamish native tribes.

Seattle is definitely a better name.

If I remember right, I tried desperately to stay awake Monday night to watch the new episode of Castle, but it was a failed effort. I crashed about 10 minutes into the show. Even on the pullout sofa bed in the hotel I slept like a rock. I'd not slept much the nights before and had changed time zones quite a few times.

But on Day 2, I was up early and went for a run downtown and along the water. I was training for another half-marathon, so I figured the hills and change of scenery would help make running seem like more fun. It was great to run in the city but the hills were absolutely brutal. Some of them had somewhere around a 12 percent grade. Doesn't sound like much but go try to run up that hill, especially after you already ran a few miles. It's amazing just to not roll back down.

After my run I was hot and freezing at the same time, but feeling refreshed from running along the harbor and seeing the islands, the city and the water. I could do that almost every day. Minus the hills.

We went back to the market that morning. I had to get a dark cherry mocha from the original Starbucks. I'm mildly addicted to coffee. (It seems I only have the picture of the store. My sister has a picture of me and my coffee and I think dad has one of me in front of the store. Must find!)

In the market, Sam (the middle sister) and I came across a booth for Moon Valley Organics. The family run local business produces their own line of health and beauty products and also honey and beeswax products. Sam spent the summer on an organic farm, so she was very interested and I was also impressed by their operation. Plus, they made some pretty cool stuff.

After that Sam and I had lost the rest of the family and then Sam and I lost each other. We were all around wandering at our own pace.

I also found Hammering Girl and I loved her jewelry. A few of y'all might be getting some of her creations for Christmas.

After spending the morning at the market, we headed back toward the hotel and Sam wanted to go by the REI store, which was only a block or so from the hotel.

At REI, I walked in a saw a sign for an SPJ event. I sent a message to my friend Dana who is the regional director out there and lives in the Seattle area. Then I ran into her in the store. She invited me to an SPJ mixer later that night and it was great to spend some time with her and meet other journalists. I also met a guy who was planning a trip to Slovenia so he wanted tips from me. I hear his trip was great.

The Emerald City, formerly known as Duwamps

2010-12-05T11:06:00.000-08:00

When my little sister moved to Seattle for graduate school at the University of Washington, the whole family went along.

We went for a week, she stayed.

My parents and two sisters arrived before I did since I worked the Sunday shift. I then stayed up far too late packing and drinking wine and doing other things so that I nearly slept through my flight. Thankfully, my roommate tapped on the door a few minutes passed the time I had wanted to be at the airport and said something like "Hey Jenn! Wake up!"

Good thing I had done most of my packing the night before, because I frantically tossed a few more things in the bag, got dressed and raced out the door. Miraculously, I made it to the airport with time to check my bag.

Around mid-day, I arrived in Seattle. Dad picked me up at the airport and took me to the hotel so I could drop my bags and clean up a bit. I hadn't showered in my mad pre-dawn dash and just felt icky after all that flying.

It was much cooler than I had anticipated, so I was of course inadequately packed, but I love the cool air.

Dad and I walked down to Pike Place Market to meet my mom and sisters. There was some confusion over which sign to meet by. They were at one, we were at another and it took until someone said something about flying fish that we figured out what the other person was talking about.

We wandered around the market for awhile then headed down Alaskan Way to get tickets for the harbor cruise with Argosy Cruises. We grabbed lunch at Elliott's Oyster House while we waited for our 1:30 p.m. cruise. We loved our food and the staff there was friendly and hilarious.

Stuffed, we walked a few feet to board the ship. And headed out.

The kids (my sisters and I) all ended up standing outside taking in the view and getting some air. Our hair was all over the place in the wind and our cheeks were getting rosy from the cold air off the water, but it was great.

As you cruise, you see the city, the islands, sometimes can see Mt. Rainer and get background and historical information on what you're seeing. I also spotted the Seattle P-I building. Too bad it no longer prints a newspaper, they've gone all online as so many publications are doing.

After the cruise, which lasts quite awhile, we explored the shops and views along the water and went back to the market for a bit.

Eventually we were hungry again and tried to find some Italian place, but there seemed to be confusion as to where it actually way. We did end up at an Italian restaurant, not sure if it's the one we were looking for or not.

The food was great (I'm failing you, because I cannot remember the name of the place!) and the service was alright. We didn't really care, we were all together for the first time since Christmas 2009 and I'm pretty sure we were the loudest people in the place, laughing and talking for quite awhile.

Coming attractions

2010-12-02T11:29:00.000-08:00

Since my last entry I quit my job at the Montgomery Advertiser, without a new job lined up. Got a new job, moved back to Virginia, this time in the DC area, got a new apartment with a friend and basically did an overhaul of my life.

Now that we're finally connected again at the apartment, I'll have new posts coming in the next few days about the family trip to Seattle, the SPJ conference in Vegas, my last days in Dixie and the adventures there.

I'll also fill you in the move from 'bama back to my mighty Commonwealth, which was an adventure in and of itself since I drove a 16 foot truck while towing my car and with the puppy in the front seat. I also got that truck stuck in a ditch somewhere in North Carolina and that has become a funny story. It certainly wasn't at the time.

So, prepare yourselves, I'll be back on the ball with posts soon and then I'll keep them coming!

Come here often?

2010-10-22T14:36:00.000-07:00

I claim Virginia as home, in case you hadn't caught on to my love of the Commonwealth just yet.

I've never lived in D.C., but have been many, many times and have spent a fair amount of time riding the Metro.

So it was funny this week when I got on the wrong line, went the wrong way, missed trains, couldn't find the station, screwed up the bus plan and all around did not rock the Metro.

You'd never know I'd been to D.C. before.

I mock myself because it was really quite comical how much of a mess I was for a solid 24 hours, especially after lecturing my mom on how I was capable of handling the Metro. Karma perhaps. I'd like to think it was because I was so focused on a job interview that my mind couldn't process much else, but really, it's pretty typical of me. It felt a lot like many of my misadventures abroad, only I was home. We all have days.

But, I was redeemed when going through the security line at Reagan (DCA) Airport and the TSA guy watching me said, "You've done this before, huh?"

Buy map, throw dart. Just sayin'

2010-10-22T14:11:00.000-07:00

The September issue of National Geographic Traveler had Slovenia on the cover and a Subaru ad on the back.

No, I’m not trying to sell you a Subaru. I don’t even care that much about them. Good cars sure, but an ex-boyfriend wanted one and we had to drive all the way to Tennessee to get it and I’m almost positive they do in fact have Subarus in ‘bama. Anyway, so sad for the Subaru that I have a negative association but that’s totally not my point.

The marketing team for the ad is absolutely genius.

The ad has a picture of a car on the coast somewhere and all it says is “Buy map. Throw dart.”

The ad absolutely, totally and perfectly describes the kind of traveler I am and hope I will always be. That alone could potentially get me to buy one of those cars, despite that negative association, and just wander about the country.

It’s also something to aspire to, or inspire, or motivate.

That ad is likely going up on my wall somewhere I can see it every day.

It’s a big world, I want to see it, and really what’s to stop me? (That's a picture of the Triple Bridge in Ljubljana, Slovenia from my 2009 trip. I picked Slovenia because a British guy I met in Peru recommended it...seeing the dart philosophy at work?)

To me, it’s almost like a bracelet I bought in Annapolis a few years ago.

It’s got a black and white stands braided and tied to a silver plate that has “Fearless” pressed into it.

Not sure if at the time I bought because I was fearless or because I wanted to be fearless. I wore it though as a reminder to be fearless, at least most of the time, and I suppose you already have to have some fearlessness in you for it to work, but I’d like to think I’ve become more fearless.

That doesn’t mean I’m reckless, but it means going after life and making it what you want it to be.

Sometimes that includes buying a map and throwing a dart.

Yorktown photos

2010-10-22T13:00:00.000-07:00

Since my computer would not cooperate the other day and wouldn't let me post any more photos, here are some more from my sister, Maura Rowell, of our days in Yorktown.

One, clearly, is the tallship we toured that weekend. Still haven't found the info sheet about it, but I'm packing to move back to Virginia, so perhaps I'll find it among the piles of paper and books!

The other is the Yorktown Monument during the Virginia Symphony Orchestra concert at Yorktown. It was an absolutely beautiful night.

There are stars all over my map, but I only have one home

2010-10-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

A 12-hour road trip home with the puppy was a genius idea.

Somewhere along the way, it seemed a little less brilliant.

I had somehow managed a four-day weekend for Labor Day this year. Instead of sitting around Montgomery, I decided we’d go home.

I hadn’t been home or seen my family since Christmas and that’s a pretty long time for me. Plus, they’re never met the new puppy and well, I just wanted to go home.

Home to me is Yorktown, Virginia.

I wasn’t born there, didn’t live my whole life there, but to me it’s home.

Dad was military and we moved around a lot as kids. We got to Yorktown in 1997 and I started eighth grade at Grafton Middle School.

Dad retired in the spring of 2001 and we were supposed to move to New England, something I was less than pleased about, but Dad found a way for us to stay.

So, I graduated high school in Yorktown, went to college about 20 miles down the road in Newport News. I went to church in Yorktown, worked in Yorktown, interned in Newport News and Norfolk.

I bounced all over Hampton Roads and throughout Virginia for work, school and play.

I love Virginia.

After college, I interned at a paper in Fredericksburg where I was hired on full-time and worked for about another year.

So, maybe I’m not a native, but I claim Virginia as home and I choose to love the state that is for lovers.

Okay, okay, you get it, I love Virginia. Back to the road trip.

I get on the road late, of course, and have the puppy all situated in the back seat. I put his bed back there and he just curled up and slept through almost the entire trip. Lucky little man.

We pit-stopped in Fayetteville, North Carolina to see a reporter friend there and meet up with another reporter friend who had just started at the paper there.

Finally, we made it to Yorktown.

I’m sad to admit I got turned around (read: lost) when I took an exit of Interstate 64. I used to get off that way and know all the back roads, but I was aiming for the next exit and suffice it to say I confused myself.

I refused to use the GPS since I was home, how could that little computer know the way home better than me?

After a few wrong guesses to find the back way, I went back to the interstate and got to the exit I was looking for in the first place. Easy peasy from there.

Maybe it’s the time away or the need for a break, but every time I go back to Yorktown, I truly feel home. I feel it as soon as I see neighborhoods where I used to live or my friends lived. I feel it when I see the roads I learned to drive o

n. I feel it when I see my church, library, the skating rink, my school and finally my house.

For the short time at home, I wanted to go to the colonial part of Yorktown, along the York River. That’s where the colonial forces defeated the British and was the last major battle of the Revolutionary War. It was also a major port for the colonies for awhile.

Now it’s a small town that much of the older buildings and business were destroyed during Hurricane Isabel in 2003. But the town has rebuilt and much effort has been put into that little piece of riverfront and it was packed when I went with my family on Saturday to the farmer’s market. (Eggplant at the farmer's market, photo by Maura Rowell, my little sister)

There was fresh produce, locally made products, handmade jewelry and other crafts and specialty puppy treats. The lady at that tent gave Grover some water and tried to give him a treat, but he was afraid of her at first. Finally, he warmed up to her and ate the treat.

That’s about the time a man came up behind me and said, “Excuse me miss.”

For whatever reason I thought he was going to tell me I couldn’t have a dog or something, who knows why, there were dogs everywhere.

But he asked if I wanted to trade my puppy for some fresh, homemade soup.

I laughed, although he had startled me and of course I didn’t want to trade my dog for soup.

Since I had such a good looking dog, I could come back if I changed my mind, he said.

Not gonna happen pal, but thanks for the offer. (Meet Grover...isn't he the cutest thing? When he's not eating your shoes, or anything else. Photo by Maura Rowell, my little sister.)

There was a tallship docked and they were offering free tours that day so my littlest sister and I went up to check it out.

The ship is crewed by a group of young people and sails out of Georgia I think it was. I had a sheet of paper about the ship and it’s the one piece of paper I can’t find now. But still looking.

That night we went back to Yorktown to hear the Virginia Symphony Orchestra. It was one of their free outdoor concerts as a teaser to their season. The weather was spectacular that weekend and I was actually chilly sitting on the grass.

The music was great, being in Yorktown was great and you could look up and see a fairly unobstructed sky scape. The light pollution in Yorktown is still minimal. Plus, I ran into some friends and their parents at the concert.

It was one of those perfect days.

That Sunday, a friend from DC came down and I dragged him to Yorktown, too. Are you sensing a trend? I really like this place.

We ate breakfast in City Center, a sort of outdoor style mall with hotels and bars that had just been getting started when I was in college.

Since we weren’t far from my campus, we swung by there and I gave him a pretty terrible tour since campus looks completely different than it did when I graduated in 2006.

The campus tour didn’t last long since I couldn’t tell him what half of the buildings were and that was just depressing me.

It was a gorgeous day and we were on the road to Yorktown again. We wandered down the riverfront, went on the tallship -- I noticed different things this time -- and then hoofed it up the hill to the colonial part.

There’s a large stone war memorial that overlooks the York River and we wandered around that, reading the names of the men killed in battle.

And of course we had to check out the Thomas Nelson house since I’d gone on and on about the cannon balls in the side of the house.

My friend asked if they were the original cannon balls and you know what, I had no clue.

Turns out, they’re not. The craters in the brick left from cannon balls are genuine, but the cannon balls in the wall are replicas. Bummer.

Those cannon balls are supposedly the result of Nelson paying American troops to attack his own home since he believe British troops were occupying it.

Nelson was a merchant, businessman and member of the Governor’s Council before the war, and once war broke out, he was appointed colonel of the 2nd Virginia Infantry Regiment, according to the National Park Service. Later, he was elected to fill George Washington’s seat at the Second Continental Congress as Washington was leading the American troops. In 1781, Nelson became Virginia’s governor, following Thomas Jefferson. He returned to Yorktown to lead about one third of the American troops during that battle, which ended the Revolutionary War.

I couldn’t tell you a lot about all of the battles of the Revolutionary War, but I could tell you a lot about the battles at Yorktown and the significance of related historical cities like Jamestown and Williamsburg. I did, after all, grow up in what we call the Historic Triangle.

Every time I go back, I learn something new, or notice something different. And during the holidays, each of these historical cities is aglow in colonial Christmas decorations and I just can’t get enough of it.

I’ve been all over the world, with plans to add some stars on my world map, but I always come home to Yorktown.

It's a bird, it's a plane, it's a flying Jenny!

2010-10-11T07:54:00.000-07:00

I grew up in the Air Force. My dad was a bomber navigator and had a private pilots license. He took my mom flying on one of their first dates and he had me and my sisters in the skies at a young age. I hear that mom didn’t like it quite so much, but I loved flying as a kid.

Except when dad would act like he was turning upside down over lakes. That always terrified me and I would scream at him till we were completely upright again. Of course now I know that kind of plane can’t actually fly upside down and if you were to fall out of a plane, over water would probably be a better bet.

He also dragged us to many air shows and I mean it when I say dragged. At least in my case. In my younger days I cared more about my latest dance recital than airplanes.

Funny how things change.

Now I’m a military reporter and am developing the ability to identify planes by sound as they fly overhead.

I’m by no means a master, but I’ve come a long way from my days twirling in pretty pink tutus to spending my days learning about synthetic jet fuel and the payloads of various planes.

Dad would have been proud when I dragged an

Air Force friend of

mine to Birmingham to check out the Southern Museum of Flight.

I’d seen signs for the museum during many, many trips to and from the airport on my way to more exotic places, but

when I dropped the roommate off for her flight to New York City a few months ago, I noticed a new sign.

There was a billboard near the airport exit with a parachuting mannequin and something about dropping in.

Very clever marketing and I was hooked.

After a few weeks of scheduling conflicts and other adventures, I finally made it up to the Southern Museum of Flight.

Mike is active duty so we got in for free and to our left was an exhibit about the Tuskegee Airmen.

The very first exhibit included a plane that had “Maxwell” painted on the side. Several more exhibits detailed the role of the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II and display of paintings and other items told the stories of the legendary aviators of those famed units. The picture to the left is one of those exhibits and that plane has "Maxwell" painted on the side, just behind the pilot's head.

For me it was even more interesting, because as I read some of those displays, I realized I had interviewed several of them, like Roscoe Brown, over the last three years as the military reporter here.

We moved over to check out some airplane engines and some static displays and then on to an exhibit about the F-86 and its battles against MiG-15s in Korea. The planes on display at the museum had also been captured in lithographs that had been signed by the pilots involved in the dogfight depicted in the print. Mike bought one for his dad and as I was telling him about retired Lt. Gen. Charles Cleveland, who flew the F-86 in Korea. About 50 years later he was recognized as a fighter ace and was awarded the Silver Star. Cleveland retired in Montgomery and I’ve interviewed him many times.

There were other connections to the Montgomery area at the museum too. There was a small replica of the USS Enterprise and Rear Adm. John Crommelin was the flight officer on the ship. The admiral was one of the four Crommelin brothers who served in the military. The family was from the Montgomery and Wetumpka area.

The museum also has artifacts like a B-25 ventral gun turret with a sign than reads, “Absolutely, positively do not touch this exhibit,” parts of a bomber that crashed into a lake and an outdoor exhibit of airplanes from several eras.

It looks a little like a boneyard and the planes could certainly use some love, or at least a fresh coat of paint, but Mike and I had fun checking out all the planes and Mike told me the history of some of them and some I recognized myself.

The yard includes a R4D-6Q “Gooney Bird,” an A-12, the first version of the SR-71 “Blackbird,” and an F-100 “Super Sabre.” The Gooney Bird is pictured below.

There’s also a Wright Brothers exhibit, complete with life size mannequins of the early aviators and a room full of experimental aircraft.

Of course, I must point out, the museum also has my favorite airplane, a Curtiss JN-4 Jenny. Like my name in the 1980s, the plan was one of the most popular planes of its time. According to the U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission, the plane was used to train about 95 percent of American and Canadian pilots after the U.S. entered World War I in 1917.

The plane was also sold to civilians and according to the commission, more than 6,000 JN-4 Jennys had been built by 1918.

All you aviation buffs out there, military kids and if you just admire the ability to take to the sky, head to the Southern Museum of Flight. It’s worth the trip and deserving of support.

Pirate at 10 o'clock!

2010-10-09T20:35:00.000-07:00

After that half-marathon in Montgomery (Oct. 2), I made waffles, had a beer downtown, then packed in about 20 minutes, walked the puppy, showered and headed out the door for a 4 p.m. flight to Vegas.

If you've caught on to my attraction to random destinations for my excursions, then you're probably wondering what is Jenn doing going to Vegas?

I was headed to the 2010 Society of Professional Journalists Convention. I'm on the national board, so I had to be there early for Sunday morning meetings before the full convention got underway.

So after running 13.1 miles, I hopped on a plane to Atlanta, where the wi-fi was useless and wandered the halls of the airport because I was bored and wanted to stretch. I spend a lot of time in this airport. A lot.

The flight to Vegas was a little more than four hours and was brutal. I sat next to a sweet little girl and had a window seat, but I just couldn't sleep. She passed out and I was getting very antsy, but had no where to go.

By the time I arrived and collected my bag around midnight Vegas time, 2 a.m. my time, I was exhausted. Plus, Vegas is a busy place. I don't just mean lots of people, I mean slot machines in the airport, flashing lights, people in clothes that don't fit properly, noise and smoke.

Oh, and then there are the pirates.

After a Sunday full of meetings, my friend Kara and I escaped to the great outdoors of the Vegas strip. We needed some natural light and quasi-fresh air. We were in the Planet Hollywood (which used to be the Aladdin) for the conference, so we popped our heads in Paris, but didn't like it so we kept walking. We wandered down the street a little to cross over the pedestrian bridge into the Bellagio and planned to check out the fountain show.

On the way there, Kara says nonchalantly, "Pirate at 10 o'clock."

Mind you, I'm still pretty exhausted and my brain is tired. I'm looking around 2 or 3 o'clock and can't for the life of me figure out what she's talking about. I see a kid in a safari type hat, but that can't be it.

"10 o'clock."

I'm still not looking the right way and by now he's at about 8 o'clock.

Yes, for a military reporter, it's ridiculous how long it took for me to connect the dots on this one.

Finally, I spot the pirate. He must have figured out what was going on. He's perfectly still until I see him. Then he suddenly moves quickly toward me and says something that ends in "me lady."

Scared the living daylights out of me. I visibly jumped.

Kara laughs at me and then we're both laughing hysterically as we continue walking down the street.

We find a spot along the wall to watch the fountain show and I'm looking at a little boy at about 4 o'clock (see I'm practicing), when the show starts suddenly with a wall of water and loud burst of music. The little boy and his friends start shrieking, startling me again.

But, the show was fantastic and Kara and I have a story that will probably entertain us both for years.

Run, run, run

2010-10-09T15:49:00.000-07:00

Since I never did write about our adventures in Nashville in April, I'll do it now.

Myself and Advertiser reporters Jill Nolin and Markeshia Ricks roadtripped to the Music City for the County Music Rock n' Roll half-marathon.

I decided now was a good time to write about that trip since last weekend I ran the Montgomery half-marathon here in town

The Nashville race was the first half for all of us. We met up with my friend Joy, who has run quite a few races. She was planning to run the full marathon, but weather changed her plans.

We hit the road on Friday, met up with some running friends and their spouses for dinner and all tried to get to bed early. We were up around 4 a.m. to get ready and get to the starting line. It was a rough wake-up call. I was already feeling queasy and not rested at all. I'd also pulled something in my leg going into the race, but I did it anyway. Wise, probably not.

Massive storms were predicted for race day and everyone was a bit edgy over that. Especially those running the whole marathon since the storms were expected to roll in a few hours after the race started.

Joy and I planned to run together since we paced around the same (well, I paced with her for a few miles) and we'd trained some together.

We didn't really have a plan for meeting that morning and she didn't bring her phone. It was only by chance that we ran smack into each other while lining up at the start.

And then we were off. We made friends with some of the other runners around us and wondered where a few of our other friends were. Mostly we tried not to think about the serious hills were were powering up through downtown Nashville and that we still had a long way to go.

I lost joy at a water station somewhere around mile 5 and just kept on going. That's when it started to be a pretty miserable run. It got better for miles 8, 9 and 10 or so. By mile 11, I thought I might die, or at least that my leg might fall off. By mile 12, I was really not happy. If I'd had something to throw, I would have, at the guy around there who said, "You're almost there! It's all downhill from here!"

Yes, a mile might seem like a short distance to someone who has been standing on the sidewalk all morning. To someone who's been running for 12 miles already, that last mile seems like eternity.

And that last mile was in fact not downhill. Not even close to downhill. Brutal.

So when I ran the race in Montgomery and Jill and Markeshia said they'd make signs for me I told them not to lie to me or there would be consequences.

Jill's sign said, "It's all uphill from here." I think her other one said something like "You're not even close." She and another co-worker, Allison, passed out orange slices and cheered on the runners.

Markeshia made a sign for me in green marker, because green is my favorite color, and on the back it said "Military reporters rock." She was around mile 12 and it was flat to the finish line so I actually was close to the end when I ran by her.

In Nashville, I finished about 12 minutes before Jill and Markeshia and found the car. That's about when the sky opened up and the storms pummeled anyone outside. Joy didn't get to finish the whole marathon since most of those runners were redirected to do the half because of the weather.

We were a soggy mess after the race so we got greasy food and took naps. Later we met up with Joy, her husband and some other friends and went to a great Mexican place that was forever away. Okay, not really, but it seemed really far. I can't remember the name of it. I know I'm failing you. But if I think of it, or find it, I'll pass it on. We loved the food and the margaritas. Joy, Markeshia and I were all about the margaritas after such an exhausting day.

The next day we figured we needed to do some touristing while we were in town. We decided to visit the Grand Ole Opry and do the backstage tour. We also went through the museum and walked around the grounds, taking pictures in front of the massive guitars.

To anyone in Nashville, I highly recommend the Opryhouse tour. Our guide was funny and informative and since I'm a country music lover, I had a great time. But even if you don't love country museum, you can appreciate the history in that building and the true community that those artists have built. It's a honor to be invited to be a member at the Opry, but that honor comes with responsibility. They have to play so many times a year there and certain other performance commitments. Maybe it's me, but there's something cool about that.

The museum had clothes that artists like Martina McBride and Carrie Underwood wore when they performed there. There's a history of the place, memorabilia, instruments, books, photos and so on. Clearly I should have written this right after we went, because I'm forgetting some details!

Not far from the Opry is the resort and the mall. We did a bit of shopping. More than I should have done for sure, but it's an outlet mall and I can't resist a good deal. Plus, the walk was good to stretch our tired legs.

I need to go back to Nashville and see more of the city when I'm not worn out from running.

Last weekend, as I crossed the finish line, I heard a man shouting, "There she is! Go Jenn!" I had just run 13.1 miles and was tired and thirsty so I didn't really realize who was talking to me. Finally I spotted him right in front of me. The Montgomery mayor high-fived me and congratulated me. Most days, I think he forgets my name, but I guess not.

About four people were shoving medals toward me so I almost dropped a few, but got mine eventually and found my friends. The boys, of course, finished ahead of me. But they're fast and in the military. They basically get paid to run. I was just happy to finish. And in about the same time I did in Nashville...that's notable because I trained a lot less for this second race. And I didn't hurt too bad.

We went home and I made my absolutely awesome cinnamon waffles. Seriously, they're amazing. And the perfect post-race food.

About that time my friends were calling me to meet them at Dreamland downtown for a beer...only I still needed to pack and get ready for my 4 p.m. flight to Vegas. Yes, I pack a lot into my days.

So I went for a beer.

Oh look, the Atlanta airport.

2010-10-07T19:41:00.000-07:00

The past month has been chaos.

It feels like about half of it was spent in the Atlanta airport (which is, for the record, my least favorite airport to date).

I drove home to Virginia for Labor Day weekend -- with the puppy.

The next weekend was a 10K in Montgomery and an awards banquet that night in Atlanta and a going away breakfast for some military friends the next morning.

Then it was weekend duty before a week in Seattle with the family. Back in Montgomery for a week then a half-marathon and off to Vegas for the 2010 SPJ National Convention.

Now I'm back in Montgomery for about two weeks before moving back to Virginia.

Suffice it to say I'm tired. I've crossed so many time zones lately I hardly know where I am when I wake up every morning.

But, I love it.

I love that I can breeze through airports like it's my day job.

I love that I can go for a morning jog straight up hill in Seattle one morning, a week or so later be accosted by a pirate on the Vegas strip and then back home with the puppy who is absolutely overjoyed to see me (nice to have someone love you so unconditionally).

I write this not to tell you how tired I am, but to tell you that many, many updates are coming.

Get lost. No really, get lost.

2010-09-29T15:25:00.000-07:00

Love reading these lists from Lonely Planet. This one is the best cities to get lost in. I've done two.

Venice is certainly deserving of the top spot. The alleys, canals, bridges and poor signage make it easy for anyone to get lost. But it's not really that big so you can't get so lost that you won't manage to wander back to where you started or where you want to go. I spent hours getting lost in Venice while I was in the city last May for a few days. I saw so much more that way and met some very interesting people. Some of those people even asked me for directions. Ha!

I also really loved London. I stayed with a friend in a London suburb for a week so I had learned the lay of the land after a few days, but still ventured out each morning to explore the city and only used my map when I wanted to get to a specific place like the Tower of London, Big Ben or the British Museum. Even then I didn't really have a timeline so I could wander until I got there. The only time I really needed to be somewhere at a certain time was to see The Lion King in the West End. Spectacular.

I'd also add some places to this list:

-Cusco, Peru.

-Pretty much anywhere in New Zealand.

-Cairns, Australia, as well as Bryon Bay and Rainbow Beach. They're small, but worth exploring.

-Ljubljana, Slovenia. Also the Lake Bled area.

Motor it to Mobile

2010-09-29T15:03:00.000-07:00

I always leave the country, flying solo, so I figure I can take me, myself and I on a day trip to Mobile.

So I did.

Got up early one Sunday morning and hit the road with a very large cup of coffee.

First up, mass at the oldest Christian church in Alabama, the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception.

It was absolutely beautiful, although I had a hard time hearing whatever the priest was talking about. I’m Catholic, so didn’t feel at all out of place, but his homily involved a C.S. Lewis story about a lizard and it was lost on me.

I love old churches. Even though religion always seems to tell you to live simply, old churches are rarely simple. They’re absolutely exquisite and elaborate and ornate.

In foreign countries, I’ve always found the best way to experience the architecture was also to experience the service. So I’ve sat through all kinds of services, sometimes in other languages, and even though I didn’t always know what was happening, it’s always a quiet way to take in everything around you.

According to the cathedral’s Website, the cornerstone was laid in 1835. Michael Portier had become the first Bishop of Mobile in 1829 and he wanted a cathedral. Designed by Claude Beroujon, it was consecrated on Dec. 8, 1850.

The cathedral has survived fires and hurricanes, but has been restored several times and the last one was completed in 2004.
If you’re Catholic, go to a service when you’re in town. If not, still sit through a service, or at the very least, visit and take in the architecture and huge stained glass windows.

After mass, I headed to the flea market. I had high hopes for a great find of some sort. But with a heat index of roughly 115, I was fading fast. I did find a man selling candles that his daughter made and they included pomegranate and gardenia scents...my two absolute favorites. So I just had to get them.

Of course, with more touristing ahead, it was a faulty plan. The candles melted some in the car, but work just the same really.

The flea market was an experience for sure. I saw a guy walking around with some sort of white bird on his shoulder. Reptiles and farm animals for sale. So were puppies and kittens, they all looked miserable in the heat and I could hear them whining everywhere. One vendor was selling leather goods and biker like things next to people selling ladies purses and other girly things. Had to laugh as I walked through the stalls. There was a used book seller and I combed through the shelves for awhile, but the heat was too much for me. Never thought I’d walk away from old books without one in my hand, but I was melting.

After sitting in the car for a few minutes to cool off, I headed back to downtown Mobile to the Museum of Mobile. But I saw Fort Conde on the way and stopped there first. It’s a replica of the 18th-century fort and they must have all been short, because even I felt the need to duck in most of the doorways, and I’m not very tall. (photo is view of downtown Mobile from inside Fort Conde)

In the information center I found a brochure for Cathedral Square Gallery. I thought it was closed on Sundays, but the brochure said it was open, so I walked as quickly as possible the 10 or 15 blocks to the gallery on Dauphin Street. By the time I got there, I was feeling as thought I might collapse, it was just so hot.

But, the gallery was well worth the short trek. The artist were rearranging the gallery and were quite friendly. Watching them move their displays around and arrange the handmade jewelry as they talked and laughed made it feel as if I was a part of their circle. They were all lovely and talked about their art and offered a much needed drink to cool off.

I have a rule that I only buy jewelry in foreign countries made by the locals, or handmade jewelry at home.

Despite my lack of disposable income, I was of course drawn to the jewelry counter where I got to chatting with Deborah B. Moore of the Fairhope area who was one of the artists. Since I had just completed my graduate courses for my Masters, I decided a pair of earrings was an acceptable gift to myself. So I bought two. I just couldn’t decide.

Deborah told me about the gallery and her art. She has a Virginia connection through her daughter and so of course, I loved her immediately. Have I mentioned lately how much I love my Commonwealth?

With my earrings tucked in my bag, I headed back 10 or 15 blocks to the Museum of Mobile. I learned about the history of the city and how it became the place that it is. I’ll admit I was quite tired by the time I got to the museum, so I’ll likely have to visit again to take more of it in. There are exhibits about the settlement of the city, it’s growth, the port and state docks, the role of the city during the many wars since its establishment and more. I didn’t know it at the time, but the museum offers free admission on the first Sunday of the month.

An entire day spent exploring Mobile was absolutely lovely, but I could spend many more hours in the city and the surrounding areas.

A solo tourist day is a great break and a great time. If you can’t fly solo in a foreign country, might as well apply the same principal at home.

Around town

2010-09-29T10:16:00.000-07:00

About a week after our maiden Coosa voyage, Jeannette and I took to the streets of Montgomery to play tourist for the day. She’s from California and I claim Virginia, but while in ‘bama, see ‘bama, we said.

We started with some school work and coffee, then off to lunch at the Smoothies and Things shop downtown. About that time, the sky opened up and we ended up a bit wet.

Up next, wandering the halls of the state Capitol. We met a friend of mine who works there and between him and the nuggets I’d picked up from other tours and visits, I’d say we gave Jeannette the best possible tour of the historic building.

After roaming the Capitol, observing the deceiving paint in the House chambers and staring up at the rotunda for awhile, we said goodbye and walked back down Dexter Avenue to the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church.

We stopped at the gold star at the top of the steps where Jefferson Davis had announced the South was seceding from the newly formed United States in 1861. And looked out at the street where the Voting Rights March ended in 1965.

I’d never been in the church, even through I drive by it almost daily. There’s a mural that covers an entire wall in the basement and as the guide takes you through all its parts, which depict significant moments in King’s life and the Civil Rights Movement, you can’t help but stop and catch your breath when you realize so much of it started in that very basement. It’s the only place where King was a full-time pastor from 1954 to 1960, although he preached all over the U.S. In his office there, is where he directed the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

People who stood in that same place saw a wrong. They didn’t just talk, they took action.
Jeannette and I walked out of that church and I said, “He was 26. I’m 26.” (Although, I turned 27 a few weeks later. Guess I better step up my game.)

We went back in time a bit as we walked up to the First White House of the Confederacy. It was another place I’d wanted to visit, but hadn’t quite gotten around to it. In my defense, it had been closed for awhile.

Compared to the current White House, it was small and we noticed it looked as if some of the wallpaper was held with clear packing tape. But the rooms were preserved and I decided I’d have never made it as a lady back in the day in the South, or anywhere. Far too proper, with too many dresses. With far too many frills and hoops and layers. And it’s just plain hot here. I’d have been absolutely miserable and probably not so ladylike about it.

I did absolutely love what I think was called the Blue Room. It was for guests, but I thought it was the nicest and most beautiful of all the rooms in the house. Plus, I liked the curtains. And blue. It’s the simple things.

Whenever I’m walking around downtown -- and not working -- always stop at the map in front of the Archives. I absolutely love that thing. Little bit hot in the summer, so we didn’t last that long, but every time I look at it, the explorer in me gets ambitious again. That’s always a good thing.

A few weeks later I got my friend Mike out and we headed to the Fitzgerald museum in Cloverdale. I’d read some Fitzgerald in school and knew he’d been to Montgomery and met Zelda here and so on, but I hadn’t been to his house.

Seeing a trend here? Unfortunate it took me so long to get to exploring, but now that the bug has bitten, there’s no stopping me.

It’s sad to me that the house has been split up and parts of it are rented as apartments. Although the writer in me thinks it would be quite cool to live in the Fitzgerald house.

The museum’s director told us about the Fitzgerald’s and I read an article their daughter wrote about life with dad. It certainly didn’t sound like a cakewalk.

Photos and documents are hung all over the walls and the rooms that remain as part of the museum are said to be like they were when the Fitzgerald’s lived there for a short time in the winter of 1931.

I knew that F. Scott had been stationed in Montgomery during the war and that’s how he met Zelda. But wandering the halls of his home and reading letters from him and people in his life, and seeing how connected he was to Montgomery, through Zelda, was fascinating.

Just another day when I realized how much had happened in this town and all the significant people who had been here at one time or another and the impact that time in Montgomery had on their lives.

The museum could use some help, though. It may be small and the Fitzgerald’s may have only lived there for about six months, it’s the only home of theirs that’s still standing, according to the museum. It would be an absolute shame to lose that piece of literary history. Locals, this is in your backyard. Take some time, go see it.

Early in August, I had planned a day of touristing, but was just too tired. Instead, myself and Advertiser reporters Jill Nolin and Markeshia Ricks decided to go to the W.A. Gayle Planetarium.

I haven’t been to a planetarium since I went in Australia about five years ago. I’m fascinated by space and a day at the planetarium brought back some of that enthusiasm. Plus, it gave me story ideas. The show we saw was from 1997, so it’s a bit dated, but the woman working that day said the show changes regularly.

She showed us constellations and helped me remember how to find the Little Dipper, Cassiopeia and other stellar groupings. The red laser pointer did make me a little queasy after awhile, but that may have been because I hadn’t eaten anything yet.

Either way, the planetarium is an easy access, $4 trip to outer space .

I agree with the kid who was sitting a few rows in front of us.

“That was awesome.”

Outdoors in 'bama

2010-09-27T20:00:00.000-07:00

Normally, I’d write about some insane international adventure. Getting lost in a land where I do not speak the language and refuse to pay for a cab, so I hoof it for miles to see an old castle. Or miss a train and get on buses that break down or get in cars with strangers.

All sounds crazy, but it’s just what I do when in a land far, far away. Not to mention the incredible scenery, culture, food and friendship.

In another world, you start to see your own so much more clearly. And your little comfort zone expands, exponentially.

But this year, I’m very poor after just about finishing my Masters and have been bouncing all over the country for conferences, board meetings, races and family fun.

Minor details. And they won’t stop that great need for wander I seem to have developed.

Instead, I have turned that wander closer to home.

No one ever seems to truly explore the place where they live, but I am putting this time stateside to good use and entertaining myself so I don’t go stir crazy.

To start, after almost three years of living in the Montgomery, I finally kayaked the Coosa River. My very good friend, Jeannette, and I spent the day floating, chatting, contemplating the world and our place in it.

We’re about the same age and going through a lot of changes in our lives and starting to make very big decisions. In truth, we were both dealing with a little heartache, of different kinds. We agreed that no matter what we did, we’d be okay, but it’s always good to have someone tell you that and talk it out with a good girl friend.

She also found a quote that she gave me later that we decided perfectly described our day: “The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside somewhere where they can be quite alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy amidst the simple beauty of nature. As long as this exists, and it certainly always will, I know that then there will always be comfort for every sorrow.” --Anne Frank.

A day on the river can be that peaceful place to sort through your thoughts, or you can take friends and just goof off. You can, in fact, escape the world -- even if just for a few hours -- on the Coosa. Or other nature outings. Like Oak Mountain State Park, but I’ll come back to that. Or you can take a big group of friends, like we did in August, and stop for lunch, chat, race and float your way down the river. Although, Advertiser reporter Markeshia Ricks and I didn’t really want to try getting back in the kayak in the middle of the river, so we were well ahead of our newspaper friends who were towing their kayaks with their feet as they floated.

Whatever you do, take lots -- and lots -- of sunscreen Especially if you’re like me, making regular appearances as lobster girl.

I highly recommend the day on the river, repeatedly. I’ve now been twice in about six weeks and despite the sun burn, wouldn’t trade those days for the laundry I needed to do, or reading I should do or extra work I could do.

While floating, enjoy the quite time, laugh your way through the rapids, and look for the bird nests tucked under the bridge.

Another piece of outdoor heaven in our backyard is Oak Mountain. Reporter Kym Klass and I took the dogs for what we thought would be a leisurely afternoon hike.

Turns out, the hike is almost entirely straight up hill and then straight back down hill. Not easy at all. She brought her beagle and I had my puppy, Grover. He was about six months at the time, now about eight months, and that was his longest car ride yet and certainly his longest adventure at the time.

To start, he looked and sounded a little like a wild boar, as he tried to race off and sniff everything, dismayed that his leash only let him go so far. To my dismay, that leash was attached to my arm, which was incredibly tired by the end of the day from keeping him nearby. Who needs to go to the gym? Take this puppy for a walk. Roughly the same amount of work. But about halfway through the hike, going up hill, it seemed like Grover wanted to sniff something or take a bathroom break. Nope. He just laid down in the middle of the path in front of me and looked at me as if to say, “What? I’m a puppy, I’ve got short legs.”

We stopped for a minute and continued on. A bit later, going almost straight down a hill covered with pine needles, making it less than steady footing, Grover decided he’d try to race down, but then stopped suddenly in front of me and laid down. The hill was so steep he just slid down the hill a ways. I’m amazed I didn’t break anything on that hike. Finally we made it to the waterfall all the signs were telling us was just ahead. Grover probably drank the entire creek’s worth of water and got nice and dirty, which meant I was equally dirty.

What seemed like forever later, we made it back to the car. We were hot, sweaty, dirty and absolutely exhausted. The dogs got in the car and passed out, Grover in his bizarre car sleeping position, in which he lays down in the backseat and leans his head straight up on the back of the seat. It cannot possibly be comfortable.

For a puppy, Grover made a good showing and got along with the other dog. Kym and I were just spent, but decided we’d probably do it again.

A day outside, despite the insane ‘bama heat and humidity, is always worth it.

Fanning my travel fires

2010-09-14T21:36:00.001-07:00

Tonight I went to the first meeting of Meet, Plan, Go.

It's an cool initiative brought to you by three women. Two of them founded Briefcase to Backpack. The third is an independent consultant on how to travel internationally.

I've traveled solo for the last five years and have loved it. But being stateside for more than a year has me a bit antsy.

I came across the information for Meet, Plan, Go and even though the closest one was in Atlanta, a 2.5 to 3 hour drive, I decided it was worth the hike.

And I was right. The theme of Meet, Plan, Go and Briefcase to Backpack seems largely to be sabbaticals and career breaks. Being a young journalist, it's probably a great time to up and leave, but the event gave me lots of ideas for future travel adventures and how to make them more productive than just seeing the world -- which is obviously productive in itself, but thinking of ways to finance such adventures is extremely useful and motivating.

The Atlanta event was hosted by Barbara and Elizabeth Pagano, a mother-daughter duo. They spent six months sailing together and now help others pitch and plan sabbaticals from their corporate lives.

The panelists were Garrett Schemmel of Hostel Dog, Heather Wilson of Conscious Execs, and Marc Reich of REI.

One attendee asked how to quiet the naysayers and just go for it when you want to check out for a year and see the world. Barbara Pagano said that in their case, they weren't expert sailors, but they were smart and quick learners and they'd figure it out (they had sailed many times before the trip).

She encouraged the attendees to plan trips and "go before you're ready," so that you can learn as you go and get a richer experience.

I agree. Obviously, don't set sail if you can't swim or have a clue on how to sail. But, with some travel sense and a rough plan and even with limited language skills, you'd be amazed what you learn and how quickly you adapt in foreign lands when you don't have what some would consider the requisite skills. I went to Peru with limited Spanish skills and went to towns without a place to stay that night. I've gone swimming with dolphins, snorkeled the Great Barrier Reef, sailed the Whitsundays, hiked in the Andes, gone horseback riding through areas where Lord of the Rings was filmed and more. None of it would have happened if I hadn't just up and left the country.

Don't spend all your time dreaming and planning. Eventually, you just have to go.

Check out those sites and go to a Meet, Plan, Go event in a town near you or their bootcamp in January.

Skip it!

2010-08-27T10:46:00.001-07:00

Caught this one from NPR today. Good read and useful in future travel planning.

Where not to go, story here.

Travel trends

2010-08-27T10:42:00.001-07:00

I picked up this month's issue of National Geographic Traveler the other night and noticed the cover. It took a second, but while reading the photo caption inside the cover, I realized the cover story was about Slovenia.

The issue had been sitting on the table next to my bed, but I just hadn't had a chance to look at it yet.

It's not the first time a travel magazine has had a cover on a place I recently visited. Cool to know I'm ahead of the travel trends.

This author went to some places I didn't get to and also was able to go to Croatia. I wish I'd been able to do that, maybe next time.

Backpacker essential trails

2010-08-27T10:23:00.000-07:00

E-mails from Lonely Planet make me happy because they give me ideas for new trips and adventures.

This week, the e-mail included this story on the top 10 essential backpacker trails. I was excited to see what made the list and even more excited when I realized I'd already done three of the 10.

New Zealand and Australia are, not surprisingly, in the top five. I studied in Christchurch, NZ for a semester and it was one of the greatest times of my life. The country is absolutely stunning and the people are amazing. Students I had class with were extremely well read and articulate and new more about the world than anyone I went to school with back home. Then again, when you're country is the size of Colorado, I guess you have to be more aware of the world around you.

On a study break from the University of Canterbury I hopped over the Australia and spent two weeks wandering from Cairns to Sydney. It's another trip I highly recommend, but be sure to pack SPF 100 million when snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef. I'm amazed I didn't just melt. Worst sunburn of my life I'd bet and then spent 10 hours on a bus the next day. Most unpleasant.

Peru also made the list and I covered most of the spots mentioned in the Lonely Planet story. Didn't get to all of them, but added some of my own. Huaraz is not on their list, but I highly recommend it. The town was devastated by a few earthquakes and they've in large part stopped rebuilding so the town has areas that look very rundown, but the people are friendly and from the balcony of our hostel, we could sip hot tea and look up at the Andes. Not sure it gets much better than that for about 20 soles a night...roughly $5 at the time. I think I made money in Peru the exchange rate was so good and everything was so cheap.

Lacking Spanish skills complicates things a bit, but you can make do. I discovered I learned much quicker out of necessity than listening to language CDs at home or in the car. Also turns out I spoke more French than Spanish...you never really knew what language I would answer with during those two weeks.

I'll be working on some of these other trails in the near future, and as usual, adding some of my own.

Driftin' in Dixie

2010-08-10T11:47:00.000-07:00

I've been bad at updating here. And it's not for lack of travel. Life just gets in the way.

By chance, I read my horoscope yesterday and, being a Leo, it's apparently the new year for me in some astrological sort of way.

And getting back on my game and posting here more regularly is one resolution I am making and aim to keep.

To get me started, as I gather my thoughts and document the details, and upload the photos (which always seems to take me an eternity), here's what I've been up to since my last post.

March:

Orlando for a conference. Squeezed in a 5K run and SeaWorld. Because I'm five. I just had to go to SeaWorld.

April:

Indianapolis for a board meeting. And ice cream. And a winery.

Nashville for the Rock n' Roll Half Marathon. I did not die.

Oh, got a puppy that month too.

May:

Tampa for a meeting. When I finally remembered I have cruise control. And discovered a love of books on tape.

June:

Didn't leave town, but a friend I interned with in Fredericksburg, Va. was here.

July:

Kayaked the Coosa River with my very dear friend, Jeannette.

Jeannette and I played tourist for a day in Montgomery. We toured the state capitol, with help from a friend who works there. Toured the Dexter-King Memorial Church. Walked on the map in front of the archives. And, of course, got coffee.\

Oak Mountain hiking with co-worker, Kym, plus dogs. My pup, Grover, and her beagle, Brittney.

Dragged my friend Mike out to the Fitzgerald Museum, where F. Scott and Zelda lived for a short time. And the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts.

August:

Mobile for the day. Very good day. Despite a heat index of 110+

Planetarium.

More touristing this weekend, and more kayaking. And then it's my birthday. You will read more about it. Because, like touristing, I love it.

Why not Minot?

2010-04-28T08:32:00.000-07:00

I've been to Minot before, but for some reason I thought I'd gotten tougher and could handle the cold.

Joke's on me.

When I walked out of the airport and took a breath, I'm pretty sure my lungs froze a little because it actually hurt.

I'd been in Pennsylvania for several days in the cold and snow, but the middle of the night in Minot is definitely colder.

Thank goodness my high school pal, Matt, was there with the car heated up and ready to go.

People say there isn't much to do in Minot, which is sort of true, but we entertained ourselves just fine. Plus, time spent with old friends is time well spent.

The boys are in a bowling league, so there was a night of that, while I was ordering them to bowl strikes, random older gentlemen stopped to chat.

Many a stop was also made to Ebeneezer's, their official hangout after bowling and I have to say I'm a fan. Especially when endless pots of coffee are involved.

Last year, Matt and I drove out to the town of Rugby to see the geographical center of North America. It's actually in the middle of a lake, so the monument to mark the spot is a little bit off. We decided to pass on that this year and instead checked out the city's arboretum, which has about one tree. To be fair, it was February, maybe more show up during the summer?

Matt and I and one of his co-workers headed to the local area for some ice skating too. I know, in February, as if it wasn't cold enough. I used to figure skate competitively and also coached, but hadn't been on skates in years. And wearing rental skates was throwing off my balance even more, but it was a blast and made me miss being on the ice even more.

For a small town in the middle of just about nowhere, there's a nice wine bar downtown near Matt's apartment that I've now been to twice. And an Italian/American restaurant that I've also grown fond of, although I can't remember the name.

I hear the summers are toasty and they're are plenty of outdoor activities. So, it may be in the middle of nowhere, but if you've got some time to kill...why not Minot?

The tundra, in February.

2010-04-28T08:22:00.000-07:00

This never made the paper, so you're getting an online exclusive! From my trip to PA to visit Abbie in February.

----------------------------

No Jenn Rowell trip is complete without missed flights and lost bags.

The rule applied to my first quarter “fur-cation” to what I call the great white tundra.

A college friend, Abbie, was living and working in Altoona, Pa. and a high school pal, Matt, is stationed at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota, so I decided it was a good time to visit.

In February.

But I love the cold and snow, and was ready to bundle up and explore.

After missing my first flight out of Montgomery, because I like to cut it close and this time I failed, I landed in Pittsburgh. My bag — a bright orange rucksack — did not.

There was no tracking information on my bag, the luggage man told me. Not a good sign.

I left my number with the luggage man and headed into Pittsburgh with Abbie.

A local friend is from Pittsburgh and he gave me a to do list for his hometown. Abbie and I got to work on the list, starting with lunch at Primanti Brothers in the Strip District. It’s a must do in the ‘burgh, but we probably wouldn’t do it again. Massive sandwiches loaded with meat, fries and coleslaw are just not our thing.

The bag showed up that night, although it had been repacked and not nearly as systematically as I had done it.

Up next on the list was the Cathedral of Learning at the University of Pittsburgh. It’s 42 floors of academia, with a library, the Honors College, study areas and offices. The lower levels look like the inside of a European cathedral and include 26 nationality rooms. The rooms represent the different culture and ethnic groups in the city.

With a tape-recorded tour guide and a key, we spent about three hours going through Greece, Japan, Italy, Armenia, Israel, Poland, Romania and more. For two travel junkies it was a day well spent.

The Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History were the next stop and another hit. Abbie and I are planning a trip to Egypt for our 30th birthdays, in 2013, and the museum had a great Egyptian exhibit, complete with actual mummies. Minus some screaming children, we used the exhibit as a jumping off point to learn about the country and start brainstorming our trip.

There was also an exhibit on whales, done in partnership with a museum in New Zealand and many of the features were places I had been while studying in New Zealand.

Running short on time, we crammed in another exhibit, the Hall of Architecture. It’s a huge room with replicas of famous sites and architectural classics like the Parthenon and the façade of the monastery at St.-Gilles-du-Gard in France.

Walking into that room definitely caused us to stop and catch our breath. They may only be replicas, but most of the replicas are built to scale and it was a bit like we were in Greece or France as we stared up at the massive creations.

Our Pittsburgh to-do list conquered, we headed to Altoona for some small town fun, like fresh sticky buns and conversation with the sweet locals and a drive out to Horseshoe Curve, although it’s closed for the winter.

Horseshoe Curve was constructed by the Pennsylvania Railroad because it was too difficult to build tracks through the summit of the Allegheny Mountains. The curve has been used continuously since it opened in 1854 and was guarded by Union troops during the Civil War. It was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1966 and is now part of the National Register of Historic Places.

Abbie and I don’t sit still for long, so next we were off on a three-hour road trip to Washington. We went to college in Virginia and her family still lives in the DC area (my parents are in Yorktown and my sisters are in Charlottesville). It’s also my all-time favorite city.

We visited the arts and crafts market at Eastern Market, a few blocks from the Capitol. We also went to the top of the Washington Monument. In all my visits to Washington, I’d never done that. The views from the 555-foot tall stone obelisk were stunning that day. It was a bit overcast, but we could still see the entire city.

The best part of the time in Washington on this trip came when a stranger asked us for directions to the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. We got to chatting and the man had an accent I couldn’t place. A few minutes later, he told us he was from Egypt.

Abbie and I exchanged shocked glances and the Egyptian caught it.

We explained to him that we were planning a trip to Egypt and how odd it was that off all the people to strike up a conversation with, we would find an Egyptian.

He gave us some travel tips for our future adventure and we parted ways as we headed to other Smithsonian museums.

Maybe my bags will get lost then, too, but I’d consider that a sign that we’ll be climbing pyramids in 2013.

And I'm back.

2010-03-03T10:01:00.000-08:00

Alright, it's been awhile since I updated this and I've decided that I won't wait for another international excursion to update it.

I'm getting ready to kick-off a new project, something along the lines of where in the world is Jenn? But, until I leave the country again, I'll just write about all my domestic adventures, and will try to explore the South while I'm living here in Montgomery.

Later today, I'll update the blog with tales from adventures in the great white tundra...meaning Pennsylvania and North Dakota...because that's where I go on furlough.

Last days in Slovenia

2009-06-22T10:02:00.001-07:00

So I've been home for awhile and been meaning to update this.

The last days in Ljubljana were great. Pretty sure I already wrote about my adventure to the caves. Always seems stressful at the time, but always makes for a great story later. Plus nothing seems to difficult when you get home if you've managed to navigate your way through foreign countries and have a few near disasters.

But, after that adventure, myself and my new British friend Scott went to grab dinner and chatted for awhile about jobs, life, travels, education, universal healthcare, and more. It's always interesting to get a non-American perspective on what's going on at home and abroad.

We stayed out probably too late considering I had to be up at about 4 a.m. to catch the bus to the airport. While waiting for the bus I met a great Slovenian girl and we chatted the whole way there. Once we got checked in, we got some coffee and chatted some more since our flights left at the same time. Thankfully, the airline gave me my boarding pass for my connection in Paris, as there was no way I would have made it otherwise.

Landed in Paris on time, but that airport is enormous and had to be in an entirely different terminal for the flight to Atlanta. Catching the shuttle bus turned out to be an adventure in itself. It took ages since we drove the entire length of the airport and the shuttle was so packed that we were falling all over each other on every turn. Plus everyone was confused as to which terminal we were going to and in what order and it was a mess. But it's nothing like chaos in an airport to make friends with the strangers all around you.

Once I made it to the right terminal, I had to go through security, although at first, they tried to send me through the wrong line. Then I raced to the next shuttle to get to the right gate area and went through security there. It didn't take long, but I was cutting it very, very close.

I ran the entire length of the terminal and was so rushed that I had confused the gate number and went all the way to the end where they were boarding for New York. A bit frantic I stopped to look at my ticket in time to hear the final boarding call for my gate a few feet behind me. Ran some more and made it on the flight. Once I caught my breath, I realized some people were further behind me and so the flight left about 15 or 20 minutes late. All that running for nothing, but good exercise I guess. Helped me sleep a little on the flight back, which was longer than the flight over...about 9 hours. It seemed to take ages.

Back in Atlanta I had more trouble getting out of the airport since you have to check and recheck your bags just to get out. That was not the case the last time I flew international, so I was confused and frustrated. Finding the shuttle to my parking lot was even more of a mess, so much wasted time. Although might have been in part my lack of familiarity with anything outside the ATL airport.

Several hours later, after a solid 20+ hours of traveling I was back in Montgomery and upended my bag for loads of laundry, a hot shower and drinks with friends to beat the jet lag.

Only question now is where to go next?

Slovenia pictures...

2009-05-19T05:24:00.000-07:00

Predjama Grad, which means castle. And jama means cave. This is the one I part walked, part got a lift up the mountain and then walked the full 10 km back down to Postojna. Oh what a day.

Some pictures

2009-05-19T05:22:00.001-07:00

From Paris, inside the Notre Dame cathedral.

Last day shenanigans

2009-05-17T19:28:00.000-07:00

Only I can miss my train stop on the last day of my trip, leading to near disaster.

I hopped the train to Divaca yesterday morning, to visit the Skocan caves. Only, when we stopped at Divaca, I didnt realize we were there and got trapped on the train until the next stop, some small town about 10 km away.

The guy at the train station there looked at me as if I was mad when I started getting upset that there wasnt another train back to Divaca for hours, no buses and no taxis. So, I started walking.

At a gas station, I asked the clerk and she was sympathetic to my problem, but no help. I asked the cops outside who said, Divaca, that way. But, no ride. A motorcyclist talking to them said if I had a helmet, hed take me. Why on earth would I be traveling with a motorcycle helmet?

So with little more than ˝Divaca that way˝ I started walking. I had walked about 6 km in an hour, which is a good clip, but then took a turn to early and got behind. I was getting very frustrated at this point, because I needed to catch the 1 p.m. cave tour to make my 3:30 train back. It was about 12:45 and I was just a few kilometers away, but was not going to make it.

I asked a very nice lady who was working in her yard which way to go and she spoke no English, but was very helpful. She indidcated that I needed to hurry to make it. As I rushed off, she came back shouting in Slovene and her son, who lives across the street, came out to call me back. Her husband would take me the last few kilometers.

But first, the son showed me this enormous stone pit where they kept ice, I think he said, and sold it to Egypt in the summer. But, I was having a hard time understanding his limited English and what he was showing me.

The father spoke the best English of them all, shook my hand and started chatting. He was such a nice man and when he dropped me at the cave, he said ˝If you have any trouble, you come back. If I not there, my son across the street, he will help.˝

I wanted to hug him, but wasnt sure the protocol on hugging here and was in a rush to catch the tour, but his help was much appreciated.

When I travel I notice that kind of kindness more. Maybe it does exist at home, but when youre roaming the Slovenian countryside alone and a bit distressed, and someone offers to help expecting nothing in return, its a simple and genuine kindness that has no equal. That might be my favorite part of traveling. The castles, churches, sights are all wonderful, but being reminded that sometimes it all comes down to the kindness of strangers is a good lesson and creates moments I dont quickly forget.

After the tour, there was a shuttle bus to get me back to the train station, only I missed it, because the tour went long. So, I was walking. Again. Back to Divaca. With just about 8 minutes and about a kilometer or two to go, I found myself saying ˝You can do this. Please make my train.˝

It was hot and I was exhausted having half run, half walk, the way there earlier and then having walked entirely through the cave, which was worth the trouble at least.

Then a car full of travelers stopped to ask me if I knew where the airport was. I had no idea. They started to drive off but then waited for me to catch up and offered me a ride the rest of the way.

When I got to the train station, I had a whopping five minutes to spare and I found myself bored just sitting there, despite being exhausted. On the correct train, I was finally able to sit and enjoy the view, although I dozed through some of it, unable to keep my eyes open.

The caves are a UNESCO heritage site and Ill add more detail later, but were amazing. Apparently, the only other cave in the world thats bigger is Mammouth Caves in the U.S. There were lots of kids and people who couldnt seem to stay quiet during the tour so that was frustrating and Ill have to look up some of the details, but just to walk through them and again be amazed by nature was a good way to wrap up the trip.

Back at the hostel I ran into Scott, my new pal from England, and we decided on dinner. But he wasnt hungry yet and I needed to just sit still for a bit. So I cleaned up some and made a dent in my reading and eventually, we went off for pizza at my favorite place across the river and then a beer at a nice pub a little further back.

All in all, a great last day in Slovenia.

In just a minute, Im headed to the bus station to catch the early bus to the airport and will be homeward bound.

Heres to hoping I make my connection in Paris!

Last days in Slovenia...

2009-05-16T23:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had grand plans of visiting the oldest monastary in the country...with no luck. Because on Saturday, there wasnt another train to that tiny town until 5 p.m. and the buses were hit or miss. As much as I wanted to see the monastary, I also didnt want to get stuck in that town.

Instead, wandered around looking for gifts and souvenirs...still no luck...sorry. Jenn, from Washington state, and I went for tea at a cute cafe and then found another one that was in our guide book and tried some Slovenian wine. White of course, since red makes me sick. Its was pretty good, although it made me very sleepy and I was struggling to keep my eyes open...at 6 p.m.

But, a new guy just got here, from Brighton, England. We chatted for awhile, nice guy. Hes also thinking of places for my next trip. Hes been to 15 countries in the last few years, putting my seven to shame. Guess I better get hopping.

Finally ate something that wasnt pizza or bread of some sort for dinner last night, had a chicken wrap from a panini place on the other side of the river. And ice cream of course. Althuogh its not nearly as good here as it was in Bled or Maribor.

But, now, on my last day here, Im headed out for coffee and then to catch the train to Divica for the Skocan caves. Thats the plan anyway! Met some Kiwis last night and theyre going too, hopefully at the same time I am.

Will tell you about the caves tonight and then see you all tomorrow!

What says Slovenia...

2009-05-16T04:53:00.000-07:00

The way an alpaca sweater says Peru? Or a handpainted boomerang says Australia?

I have no idea, and its causing great frustration in my search for souvenirs and gifts to bring home.

That said, dont be surprised if I bring nothing home, sorry guys. Nothing is really catching my eye, or is worth the euros, or the hassle of carting it home -- without breaking it.

Theres a market going on that Ive wandered through quite a few times today arleady and might again since my plan to visit the monastary today was foiled, since its in a small town that gets just one train late this afternoon.

Maybe Ill find something at the flea market tomorrow, or at the caves if I can sort out the train/bus schedule for that.

Otherwise, Im left with sort of cheesy crafts or lots of things that were made in Nepal, India, or China. Just like everything at home.

But, Im still working on it.

Where to next?

2009-05-15T12:34:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, this trip isnt even over and Im already thinking about what comes next.

But so many countries...

Top contenders, geopolitical situations notwithstanding of course:

Nepal and Tibet

Romania

Russia

Africa (working on where in particular)

Iceland

Argentina

Turkey

Croatia

Any other ideas? I told the Aussie about my goal of one country a year and he said hed try to think of a good one for me. Hes got a year off and is touring all of Europe. Im a little jealous.

Ears are ringing

2009-05-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

Today is some sort of festival, not sure what, but it involves hundreds of kids with whistles.

Some had shirts saying it was a dance festival, but then I have to ask, what the hell do they need whistles for?

Sorry, but it made for an excruciating train trip back to Ljubljana and struggle out of the station back through town. The ladies who sat down next to me on the train seemed like they might get into a fist fight with a truly obnoxious teen in the next row over. He was blowing that whistle as loud and as much as he possibly could. My strategy, ignore him the way you ignore crying toddlers, as long as they arent dying, its probably an attention grab and when you ignore them, they stop.

But, there were so many of them on the train, it was terrible. Plus, most of them had bottles of wine or other alcohol. So, make that drunk, obnoxious teens.

The worst, though, was in the train station at Ljubljana. You have to walk underneath the platforms to get out, so its basically and underground, cement echo chamber. It was literally deafening and I thought hmm...what happens if I have hearing loss because of this.

Made it out of there and can in fact still hear, thankfully.

Back at the hostel where I started the trip, I met a nice Australian guy. He wandered off somewhere and I wandered town some more, looking for streets I hadnt seen already and trying to find some souvenirs to take home with me. Problem is, Im not sure whats Slovenian. In Peru, it was easy, alpaca sweaters and handmade jewelry. Plus, there it was cheap. Here, Im not sure whats authentic and none of its cheap. Oh well, have the weekend to decide.

After that outing came back and ran into Jenn, the girl from Washington I had met in Bled.

We decided we were both starving, so we went for some pizza slices at €1.70 and then happy hour at a pub Ive already forgotten the name of. We both drank Union, which is apparently a Slovene beer.

Another Slovene beer is Lasko. I went through that town today on the train and what I think was the brewery, or distillery, or whatever it is you call the place they make beer. Ive tasted that.

It rained some here, but we managed to duck out of it while we were in the pub. Were both calling it a night fairly early.

Tomorrow I think Ill try the monastary for a quick day trip and then come back for whatever we get into. Sunday might be the caves. Who knows, two days left and the options are pretty close to endless.

Rain, rain, go away.

2009-05-14T10:58:00.000-07:00

Still in Maribor, where it is still raining.

The sun poked through for awhile this afternoon while I was in Ptuj, a small town about an hour from here (on the bus).

There, I went to the castle, which was cool, but there wasnt much to see. They charged at least €4 to see the collections and I wasnt sure what they were, plus there was a large group of obnoxious school kids there, so I opted to ditch the castle and wander about some more.

Visited the monestary, well, part of it, and then another one that Im not sure I was supposed to be in. The door was open a bit, so I walked in and poked around for a few minutes. Then the guilt of being where maybe I shouldnt took over, so I walked out. Just in time to see a tour group going into the monestarys church, so I followed for a second. But, it was in German, or a similar language. Couldnt quite make it out.

Had planned to visit Ptujska Gora, but changed my mind since it wasnt the easiest spot to get to, and came back to Maribor. Tried to go in Maribors city castle, but its closed, so went into the regional musuem instead. It was alright, but they must not get many visitors, because the ticket lady had to turn the lights on for me in the exhibits and followed me all through one further back in the castle. I felt like I was at work on a military base with a minder. It was very annoying, although she was very nice.

From there, I found the catherdral named for St. John the Baptist, which was very beautiful. I also climbed the bell tower, all the way to the top, but then got scared I was going to get locked inside, since it was close to closing time and practically ran down the narrow steps...nearly breaking a leg several times.

My map of this town in Lonely Planet has once again proved to be unreliable, so I mostly just wandered taking random turns and eventually ending up where I wanted to go in the first place. I found one of the old defense towers thats next to whats left of a monestary. Neither was in good shape, but they were both by the river, so I walked along it for a bit.

Back in the city center, I went back to what has become my favorite ice cream spot and got another scoop of blackberry ice cream. Its my favorite and its great. The guys there are super nice too.

Tomorrow, its back to Ljublijana and the plan is sort of in flux from there, but Ill post again at least once before i fly back Im sure.

Until then, a few Slovene words for you:

Vhod--entrance
Izhod--exit
Prosim--please
Dober dan--good day, hello
Hvala--thanks

Catching a break from the sun

2009-05-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

Its been warm and sunny almost everyday Ive been here and Ive got the rosy cheeks to prove it.

But last nights thunderstorm left clouds and rain today and its actually cold in Maribor.

The bus ride from Bled to Ljublijana was alright, I think I somehow developed motion sickness though. Weird.

Switched to the train in Ljublijana and was paranoid that I was on the wrong one, but I was in fact on the right train and it was a nice one too. Shared a cabin with a very nice Slovenian woman and had great views of the countryside, mountains and rivers. Also made some progress on my book -- Andrea Mitchells bio -- without too much of the random motion sickness.

Theres some sort of tennis tournament in town and there are kids everywhere. There was also some rowing event going on in Bled I think since I saw it on the news when I got here. Although I didnt notice them in town while I was there, but I didnt go by the lake this morning on my way out of town.

Tomorrow I think Ill day trip out to Ptuj and see the church there and then come back to Maribor and tour around town for the day. Probably heading back to Ljublijana either Friday afternoon or Saturday morning and think Im going to add some day trips from there.

But for now, time to sort hostel bookings and call it a night so I can go back into traveller mode in the morning.

On the road again

2009-05-13T01:16:00.000-07:00

Its my last day in Bled. Im catching the bus soon to head for Maribor.

Ive loved this town and met a lot of great people here.

Last night, the girl from Washington and I were chatting and heres some interesting things we noticed:

Slovenia is maybe the prettiest, cleanest, nicest, most organized countries either of us have been to. Shes been to more countries, but I agree. I decided last night too that if I spoke the language, Id love this country as much as I love New Zealand.

I also learned from the couple I met at the caves last week, that this is a major transition for Slovenia. It only became an independent nation, freed from Yugoslavia, in the early 1990s and apparently, it didnt used to be so nice. So, kudos to Slovenia.

We also decided that as much as we love to travel, experience new cultures and meet people, we both appreciate a familar song, book, movie, or just something simple that reminds us of home. Must be why I turn to my trusty ipod when I get lonely or stressed out in foreign countries. And why I found myself watching an old episode of NCIS last night when I was bored.

But, thats all for now...catch you all in Maribor, the gem of the northeast of Slovenia. Then to Ptuj, a town that was mentioned by name as early as 67 AD.

Thunderstorms

2009-05-12T12:56:00.000-07:00

Today started out a bit overcast and cool, but by midday was sunny and warm.

Around 7 or 8 p.m. the clouds started rolling in and the sky darkening...and not just your typical sundown darkness.

I was sitting in the ˝chill out room˝with a girl from Washington state and chatting and about an hour later the thunder started, then the rain and lightning.

Its passed for now and seems clear again, but gotta say, thunderstorms in Slovenia are pretty fun. Its like being a kid again with your face pressed to the window, watching lightning and listening to thunder for as long as it lasts.

Because thats what we did tonight.

one more photo for today

2009-05-12T08:39:00.000-07:00

It takes ages to upload on here, so last one for today, will try to post more when I get somewhere with a better internet connection, or when I get home.

But, heres Bled Island, as we rowed to it. More like David rowed, I took pictures.

more photos

2009-05-12T08:23:00.000-07:00

View of Bled Castle and the church (will add name later...forgot!) from Lake Bled, as we rowed to Bled Island.

photos!!

2009-05-12T08:18:00.000-07:00

okay, not sure that this will work, but giving it a shot.

this is the waterfall in the gorge, the artistic version. will add the name in later...

Castles, churches, more climbing.

2009-05-12T03:59:00.000-07:00

David left this morning so I was on my own to head up the hill to Bled Castle, part of which has stood on the cliff overlooking the lake since the 11th or 12th century.

Its 600 meters up and the bugs seem to get worse as you climb. But, made it to the top and the views were well worth the climb. Got to climb all around the castle too and see a replica of a Guttenburg printing press in the town that used to be the castle prison. And the bird that spoke Slovenian whistled at me.

Discovered on the way back down that I had taken the longer and tougher route up, but its good for me I guess. Forget the gym, go to Slovenia. Get the best workout of your life, everyday. As David said, little in Slovnia was built for the tourists. The best sights require some effort to get to.

At the bottom of the hill, went in the church, which was beautiful and very quiet.

Walked around the lake a bit more, watched swans chase each other and children chase ducks.

As soon as these pictures go through (Ill try to post later), Im off to catch the bus back to Ljublijana then to Maribor.

Im going to take it easy today...

2009-05-12T03:46:00.000-07:00

That was my plan for Monday, but instead, I walked out of town with David to the Gorge.

It took less than an hour to get to the gorge and it was nice walk through the countryside near Bled.

The gorge was absolutely stunning and David let me take some photos with his digital camera since I once again killed my battery and failed to bring any extra batteries. Stupid square batteries.

But, the clear, blue-green water, was calm in some places, but ended in a beautiful waterfall, complete with a rainbow in the spray. Not bad for a days walk.

We made it back to town around 1:30 and putzed around for a bit, then decided to rent a rowboat and take ourselves to Bled Island.

Good thing David had rowed before, since I hadnt in ages and it was pretty windy on our way to the island.

We docked without anyone falling in the lake and climbed the 99 stone steps that by tradition, a man getting married in the church at the top has to carry his bride up those steps as the last test of whether he can marry her.

I cant imagine being carried up those steps, nor do I think Id want to be. It would be a hard fall back down, straight into the lake...in a wedding dress. Not a pleasant scenario to me.

But a church has stood on that spot since the 11oos or so and its amazing that they were able to build a stone church, tower and some other small buildings on Slovenias only true island.

Theres a wishing bell in the church and youll hear it all day long in town. The legend is that a woman lost her husband to some pillagers or something and was so distraught that she gathered all her gold and had a bell cast. It was to be put in the church, but on the way some sort of storm came up and the boat overturned and the boater drowned. The bell sunk to the bottom of the lake and the brochure didnt say whether it was ever recovered. She was even more upset now, so she went to Rome to become a nun. The pope somehow heard this story and commissioned a new bell, which is now in the churh and supposed to grant wishes to those who ring it.

We only paid €10 to rent the boat for an hour, but we ended up being gone for two, but no extra charge. Quite a bargain really.

I got quite a bit of sun for the day and was exhausted. We spent ages trying to email those pictures to myself, and eventually I got frustrated and quit. We went for pizza instead.

Just 2km to the hostel

2009-05-12T03:42:00.000-07:00

I think the author of my Lonely Planet guide was confused when he wrote the book, because the train station is certainly more than 2km from town and its certainly not an easy walk with a 20-30 pound rucksack after youve already been walking creation for a week.

Plus, its not the easiest hostel to find and is up a decent hill. By the time I got here, I was exhausted.

But, no stopping while traveling and I set out to wander a bit. The camera battery also died in Venice so I was seaching for a disposable, but again, Sundays arent conducive to getting much done here.

Instead, sat on a terrace for a pizza dinner and watched the sunset over Lake Bled.

At the hostel, met a great Canadian couple and my roommate, David, from England. We chatted for a bit and it turned out to be a pretty decent night. We had our own bathroom in the room, so I took a nice, long, hot shower, and this time, no water on the ceiling.

˝The train doesnt go there˝

2009-05-12T03:32:00.000-07:00

Leaving Venice wasnt tough, just packed up, ate breakfast and finally had a cup of coffee, and hopped on the boat back to the train station.

Of course, the guy at the ticket window wasnt friendly and while Im sure he spoke a least a bit of English, he wasnt in the mood to be helpful that morning.

But, got my ticket for the 10 a.m. train to Gorizia at 9:59. Plenty of time, the ticket clerk said.

He was right. Made it on, and all was well until just two stops from Gorizia.

The train conductors went on strike.

The train stopped and I had no idea what to do next.

Luckily, I ran into a Slovenian guy who works in Dublin and was on his way home to Nova Gorica, which is where I was headed. Plus, he spoke Italian.

We also ran into an American couple from Seattle and the four of us sat around, waiting, as train after train was cancelled due to the strike. Finally, two hours later, we were back on a moving train.

The Slovenian guy even bought us a coffee while we waited.

Despite being behind schedule, we had a good time and all made it back to Nova Gorica eventually.

Of course, at the Nova Gorica train station, the ticket windows were closed. Oh the joys of traveling in a predominately Catholic country, on a Sunday.

I wandered the platform and finally found someone who reassured me that the train to Bled was coming and I could buy my ticket on the train.

About 30 minutes later, I was on the train, looking out over the Socka River.

And two hours later, I was at Lake Bled.

Venice...on a few dimes and just a few hours.

2009-05-10T14:01:00.000-07:00

I made it to Venice with no real problems and headed straight for the hostel. Thats when it got a little tougher. They dont really have roads, or cars, but canals and boats. So figuring out which boat goes in which direction is a bit of a challenge. Especially where theres a crowd trying to do the same.

But, the couple I met in the Postoyna Cave live in Italy now and they told me to get a Venice Card, which is like a metro card or all day pass to public transportation in any big city. Definitely a money saver.

Found the hostel, checked in and changed, and about two hours after arriving in the city, was finally ready to go exploring.

I hopped back on the boat at the Zitelle stop, just two away from San Marco, which was my first stop. Visited the Basillica, in just 30 minutes, since the bag check closed at 5 and they wouldnt let me in with my little backpack.

Considered a trip up to the top of the tower across from the church, but for €8, I figured the postcard was cheaper. Youre supposed to be able to see all of Venice and on a clear day, as far as Slovenia and Croatia, but it wasnt that clear.

They say the best way to see Venice is to get lost. So I did. For hours, just wandered through the alleys, over bridges, and when I couldnt walk another step, rode the boat all the way around the city back to the hostel.

But after a few minutes in the hostel, I got restless, so I went back out. Debating whether I should buy dinner or Murano glass earrings. Those are made from glass blown on Murano Island, between Venice and the mainland. I opted for lasagne, because I was too hungry and I already have glass jewelry from London. They make great glass pieces in Slovenia anyway, and it costs about half.

Ran into two ladies from California and we wandered around some. They were hilarious and we found some streets and parts of the city I hadnt seen earlier, mostly because we were lost again.

Alright folks, its late and Im tired, so will post more tomorrow!

Roll Tide...in Venizia?

2009-05-10T13:49:00.000-07:00

One of those crimson shirts about caused me to tumble down the steps of a ponte (bridge) in Venice when I spotted it on the street below.

I also instantly became one of those tourists I hate. The kind that stops, out of nowhere, in the middle of a pathway and causes everyone behind them to lay on the breaks or duck around.

But, a Roll Tide shirt in Venice? I had to be sure. So I waited for the man to take a photo of his girlfriend or a duck, couldnt really be sure, and then I waited some more for him to walk straight back toward me so I could read it clearly. Yes, Alabamas reach is as far as the canals and plazas of Venizia. All this made funnier by the fact that the guy wearing the shirt was absolutely not from Alabama. Or even the U.S. He may very well have been Italian, but I couldnt make out the language quick enough, even though Id been standing and staring at him for several minutes at that point.

Guess you never really can wander all that far. Something familiar always follows.

Other odd spottings in Venice:

A bride, in full wedding garb, looking very ticked off. But I would be too if I was fighting my way through the streets of Venice and people were stepping on my dress. But, she had her fiance/husband and bridesmaids in tow so Im sure she had everything her way eventually.

On the Rialto Bridge, saw what may have been part of a bachelor party. Group of guys, mid to late 20s, all very loud and drinking. One, the groom perhaps, was wearing striped but mismatched socks, two different shoes, Mardi Gras beads, an ivy wreath and a hat that looked like Dr. Suess cross-bred with St. Patricks Day. He was very drunk. So drunk that he tried to talk to people -- through the window -- of shops on the bridge. He put his beer down on the sill to do so, probably to use both hands to steady himself. Alas, he wandered off for more merriment without his beer.

Water on the ceiling?

2009-05-10T13:40:00.000-07:00

Alright, its been a few days, so Im breaking this into a few posts.

You know in cartoons when someone turns the water on and the hose swirls and the person frantically tries to catch it, making a mess in the meantime?

Well, thats what I did Friday night at the hostel I finally made my way to in Nova Gorica. I left the library after my last post and hopped on the bus and got off in Rozna Dolina, a little village right on the Italian border. I was thrilled to have my own room with my own bathroom, so I decided I would dump out my entire bag, spread things out everywhere and take a nice, long, hot shower.

It wasnt a stationary shower head though, it was one of those stupid moveable ones, with the long cord. Cant remember what theyre called and while theyre great in theory, thats how water ended up on the ceiling -- and all over the wall and floor -- of my hostel in tiny Rozna Dolina.

But, I did get my long, hot shower and a decent nights sleep. Although Im pretty sure a Spanish couple were sitting outside my window and they talked forever.

The next morning, got up early, waited a good 45 minutes or more for the bus back to Nova Gorica. Walked, and got lost again, through town to the train station, caught the shuttle across the border to the Italian train station and headed the two-hours to Venice.

And here comes the hiccup.

2009-05-08T08:06:00.000-07:00

Lonely Planet guidebook. You are seriously failing me on this trip.

In Nova Gorica right now, at the public library. Not entirely sure where Im going to sleep tonight. Need to go sort that out in about five minutes. But, in this town, and the last, Lonely Planet maps and information have not been awesome. Oh well, making do as I go.

Got up this morning and walked the 1km to the Postojna Caves. That was worth the hike and the ticket price. The cave is roughly 3 million years old and was discovered in 1818. It opened to the public in 1819 and I think the guide said theyd had electricity down there since 1824. Either way pretty impressive. When the crowd broke into groups by language for tours it looked like I was the only English speaker for a second. Then a lovely couple joined. Shes South African, hes Sweedish. She told me that military forces had stored ammunition in the cave, until the Allies figured it out and blew it up. Id have to check that, but would make sense.

The caves were great, although my legs were hating me the whole time. We only walked about an hour and it wasnt too intense, but after yesterdays hike, Im still feeling it. One couple brought a baby to the caves. Thought that was a bit odd. Not a toddler. A baby. In a cave. It was about 45 degrees and wet and dark in there. By the time we got to the ˝concert hall˝ the baby was wailing, so it echoed everywhere.

Caught the bus to Nova Gorica this afternoon. That took almost two hours and when I got here, I got lost, accosted by some annoying kids and a soccer ball and eventually ended up here at the library. Its been a slightly rough afternoon. Since I got here, nothing has gone quite right. Still havent found the hostel, so Im leaving momentarily to catch the bus to Rozna Dolina, which is about 4km away and where the hostel is. Hopefully, they have a room. Fingers crossed! Because if not, Im a little bit screwed.

Tomorrow morning Im walking across the Italian boarder to catch the train to Venice. And I do have a hostel booked when I get there. Im tempted to just go now, since Im pretty sure they arent full, but I think Im too tired for that.

The ride from Postojna to Nova Gorica was nice though. Very green, saw some great churches and castles. And a Betty Boop bag on a local girl on the bus.

Well, booked hostels through May 14, except for tonight. And just missed the bus again. Have to wait another hour. Its too bad there arent more accomodation options in this town. Id like it better if there were.

Alright, done for now. Will be in Italia tomorrow and hopefully in a better state of affairs!

Live like royalty anyone?

2009-05-07T09:19:00.000-07:00

I did today.

Well, if you count hoofing it up a hill for a few kilometers until a very nice Slovenian woman takes pity on you and gives you a ride most of the way up. And then you climb all over a castle in a cliff thats cold and dark and leaky (from being partle in a cave) and then hoofing it back down, the whole 10 km back to town.

If thats not the life, what is?

Actually, it was a fantastic day, minus the fact that I cant really feel my legs now and I know I have blisters. Tomorrow Im walking just a kilometer to the caves, and I think it might be rough.

But, lets pick up where I left off yesterday. When I left the cyber cafe, I wandered around a bit more and wound up at the park. Just sat there and watched people walk by for at least an hour. An adorable little girl came up with who must have been her grandparents and was feeding bread to the pigeons. It was a tough concept for her, because she tried to toss the entire chunk at once instead of little bits at a time. Then she ran around and scared all the birds. Amusing.

Back at the hostel, I met Isabel, a French-Canadian from Montreal, but she spoke English! And another kid from California. He just finished his sophomore year at a school in Portland. Isabel and I went for dinner, pizza on the river. A small is actually a pizza bigger than your head, so a good deal really.

Caught the bus for Postjana this morning and while walking to the bus station almost choked on my water when I saw a Duke t-shirt in a store window. It was a sports store, but all the shirts in the window display had American teams and schools on them. Plus, there is American music everywhere and at the bus station, a girl had an Old Navy bad. Even saw a Ford on the road.

Theres some sort of sportting event going on now outside the hostel. Not sure what it is, but its loud and there are lots of people everywhere. Its not even my hostel, but mine doesnt have Internet, so had to come over here. But at least its free!

Back to the castle. It dates back to the 12th century and the oldest surviving records of the castle date to the 13th century. It was built with security in mind and is built into a cave below a cliff. Predjama Castles most famous resident was Erazem, who was there in the 15th century. He managed to defend against a month-long assault. But legend has it that a disloyal servant gave away his location -- when he was on the toilet -- and was killed. That was in 1484. Theres a cave under the castle too, but I didnt go in there.

Headed to Postojna Jama (cave in Slovene) tomorrow. Its supposed to be amazing. Ill report back afterward.

Until then. Na svidenje.

Day on in Slovenia

2009-05-06T05:55:00.000-07:00

Dober Dan!

Thats hello in Slovene. And Ill apologize right now for typos and bad grammar, the keyboard is in Slovene and a bit difficult to sort out. For example, the z and y are reversed and the symbols, oh I wont even go into those. Hence, no proper contractions.

Alright, travel details.

Got to Atlanta fine, and actually made it out of there on time. Flew Air France to Paris and landed on time. Made sure I could leave the aiport with out a problem and that my bag was checked through and then headed for the RER rail into the city. I wont lie, it took me about six rides up and down the elevator to figure out how to get to the rail station (the arrow on the sign pointed down) however, it meant go straight about 30 meters, then go down. So, Im now very familiar with the concourse at Terminal 2C.

Oh, and it was amusing to me that on the route map shown on the plane that Abilene, Texas was on everyone until we got over water. We used to live there and I didnt realize it was such a notable town.

In Paris, I went straight to Notre Dame cathedral and spent about an hour wandering through there. Next, I walked over to the Louvre, even though its closed on Tuesdays. Took way too many pictures of the glass pyramids. Did see the Eiffel Tower on the way over, while walking along the Seine. Went back to Notre Dame for noon mass. Then back toward to Louvre with plans to visit the Eiffel Tower. But instead, I detoured to the Park and walked up the Champs Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe. That was a long walk, and I had planned to veer over to the Eiffel Tower next, but I was exhausted (didnt sleep much on the plane) and the RER station was conveinently right there, so I hopped back on and headed to the airport.

In the train station met a French guy who lives in London, but was on holiday in Paris. Oddly enough, he needed my help to navigate the RER. But he was going to the airport too, so easy enough. Apparently I look as if I know where Im going in a city I spent five or six hours in, because quite a few people asked me for directions, in French. I took four years of the language in school, but my skills are limited.

So, today, I slept in late to make up for a few days of not sleeping. Then headed into town. Went straight up Castle Hill to the Ljublijana Castle. Not a lot to see there, but a good hike and nice weather. Then wandered down the other side and through more of town. Went to the open air market and bought some apples, since things are expensive here, markets might be the way to go.

Im sitting in the internet cafe right now, which it costs a ton to use the internet, so Ill wrap up here in a second, but theres American music blasting, Miley Cyrus at the moment no less. The taxi driver last night was also playing American music in his Mercedes. But, he was very friendly and helpful.

Tomorrow, Ill spend some more time in Ljublijana and then head to Postojna I think. Thats where the caves are a castle is nearby. So, need to get to some logistics. Will post again soon.

Nasvidenje. (Goodbye in Slovene)

Pre-trip freak out mode

2009-05-03T22:08:00.001-07:00

It's typical that the night before an international adventure, or any trip really, that I'm only starting to pack or plan the trip.

After spending most of the weekend in Birmingham (part work, part play), I came back to Montgomery this morning to spend several hours in the office making sure some work was done (and I'll have to go back in a few hours to really finish). Then waiting out a quick bout of severe weather that knocked out power and tossed tree branches all over the place. Then it was a dinner break and errands run with the roomie -- needed some more travel size goodies like shampoo and face wash, only to get home and discover I still have a bin full of those things from the last year's worth of trips. Also noticed there had been a run on hand sanitizer since several people in Target were asking clerks about it and there was about one bottle left -- I snagged it! So thanks for that swine flu.

But, have covered the Lonely Planet guides with scrapbook paper. It's a handy trick I read in Real Simple's travel magazine and used it in Peru last year -- definitely worth the 20 minutes it takes to cut and tape the paper to your book. That way you don't look like a completely lost tourist and an easy target.

I've also wrapped up a quick bit of laundry and I think finished the bulk of my packing. I doubt I'll know what's actually in that bag till I come home and unpack it again after the trip. I just go through drawers and shove things in the bag. If it doesn't fit in the orange backpack I bought in New Zealand, it doesn't go. The bag is the perfect size for two-week trips with room for souvenirs.

And, to calm my mom's (and secretly my own nerves), I've booked my parking for the Atlanta airport and my first hostel in Lbjuljana. The travel itinerary is also starting to take shape. Probably won't finish it tonight since I'll need something to do in the airport tomorrow!

I do need to figure out what to do for my 8 hours in Paris though. Turns out the airport isn't close to the city center and the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays. Most unfortunate. But, I think I've settled on the Notre Dame cathedral and snapping photos of the Eiffel Tower and the arch. Possibly more, but catching the flight to Slovenia is the priority.

Things I still need to do: find a flashlight for caving and load up the carry on bag. Should also brush up on my basic French and learn a few words in Slovene. I never got past "dober," or good. The roommate taught me that one as she read my Eastern European phrase book more than I did I'd bet.

But, for now, sleep.

Slovenia in the news...

2009-04-21T10:55:00.000-07:00

Just happened across this interesting story, guess I should watch out for brown bears...

Fri Apr 17, 6:06 am ET

LJUBLJANA (Reuters) – Slovenian police sealed off an area of Ljubljana on Thursday to hunt down a wild brown bear, the first seen roaming the capital in decades.

The bear was seen on a hill called Roznik, which is only about a mile away from the center of the city and usually full of joggers and hikers, Tone Lesnik, a spokesman of the national Forest Service, told Reuters.

"The police have sealed off the hill and we have five people looking for the bear, believed to be about two years old," he said. If found, the bear will be tranquilized and returned to his natural habitat, he said.

"It is surprising he managed to come to Ljubljana without being hurt by a car," Lesnik said, adding the bear was believed to have come from the forests west of the capital.

Each year about two bear attacks on humans are registered in Slovenia. The last took place last year about 20 miles southeast of Ljubljana, when a female bear with cubs attacked a jogger.

In recent years bears have been moving closer to villages and cities in search of food as the bear population has been rising, Lesnik said.

Slovenia has between 430 and 490 brown bears and the south of the country, covered with thick woods, has the highest density of brown bears in Europe.

Each year some 25 bears die in car and railway accidents. Last week the environment ministry said hunters will be allowed to kill 70 bears this year, down from 75 in 2008, in order to keep the bear population steady.

(Reporting by Marja Novak, Edited by Zoran Radosavljevic and Paul Casciato)

Random facts

2009-04-20T20:58:00.000-07:00

Slovenia is apparently home to a world dog sledding event.

And the largest Slovenian city outside Slovenia is Cleveland, Ohio.

Why Slovenia?

2009-04-15T17:33:00.001-07:00

Q: Where are you going in May?

Me: Slovenia.

Q: Why?

Me: Because.

I probably have answered just like that before, but the real thought process went more like this: I was in Peru having dinner with a British friend I had met in Huaraz. I was telling him about my plan to visit at least one country a year and I needed to pick the next one. He recommended Eastern Europe and Slovenia in particular.

At the time I had ruled out Europe for cost, but he pointed out that many of the former Soviet or Yugoslavian countries were cheaper and just as great. And he was right.

I Googled Slovenia (anyone who knows me knows I Google everything -- seriously, everything) and flipped through a Lonely Planet book and I was hooked.

New conversations go like this, What's in Slovenia?

Me: Castles, architecture, mountains, culture, history.

Q: Where is it?

Me: Borders Croatia, Hungary, Austria and Italy.

So I don't really know what I'll find and it will certainly be a shift after the two-weeks I spent winging it through Peru last summer. But, I know that 'dober' means good in Slovene and that the weather should be great in May, and I'll go from there!

Slovenia, here I come.

2009-04-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

On May 4, I'll be headed to the Atlanta airport for a flight to Ljubljana, with a long layover in Paris. Can anyone say international multi-tasking?

I'm not sure yet what I'll do or where all I'll go, but I'm told Slovenia is the size of Massachusetts, so in two weeks, I should be able to see it all. Plus, a side trip or two to Italy, Austria, Hungary, Croatia maybe.

Here's a map to give you some idea of geography.