Who knew that Poland is world class in windsurfing? I spent the afternoon in the sun. I was suppose to bicycle to Hel (google 'Hel, Poland") and I tried for awhile. But it was more enjoyable sitting in the sun watching the surfers go by.... read more

Tah Dah! One taxi, plane, taxi, bus, bus, and I'm here in Gdansk; registered in hostel and spent afternoon 'downtown'. Great weather so far! Getting use to the silence of one who does not speak the language. Enough people in service sector speak English to point me in general direction. It was a good trip despite the early morning, 4:15 a.m. to get flight. Can't complain as the ticket was ten dollars Canadian, no taxes, but with the extras for luggage it was fifty dollars total. If anyone follows my tracks, I recommend the Lucky Hostel in Gdansk. They will pick you up at the trainstation free of charge, and a single room with breakfast is 26 Can dollars. Rooms are tiny, but when you just want to crash, they are fine. Very clean place with ... read more

Each time I create a blog entry I intend to write a long essay about my travels. It never gets written because it takes time to upload photos and make comments. This will be another blog with tons of pictures; I think they are the best part of the blog. When I am in Poland, I might not have access to computers to upload photos, so I might get to write those long, reflective essays. I do think alot when on trains and buses, and I compose some marvelous text in my head. The only insight that I'd like to share with you right now is that I should change the term 'year off' (that describes my year) with 'year on' because every day is filled with new experiences and challenges. Transporting myself across a city ... read more

I have spent relaxing days at Ray's house. My cousin and brother must share similar DNA, the dry humour and slow-to-comprehend-my words kind of DNA. Luckily for Ray, I've lots of practise explaining things to Jason. Give me a few more days and Ray will have that dry, witty resignation that Jason has when I explain things. When I'm not nagging Ray, we catch up with life. He has had a colourful career traveling all over the world. Now he enjoys the finer things of country living. I borrow Katie and Bella and take them for walks along the countryside. Today we went to the market in Long Sutton. I played the tourist and took photos of the local highlights; Ray did too. On Sunday, I'm taking the train to Scotland.... read more

Today is Match day, the Irish football final between Kerry and Tyrone counties. It is also International Peace day; and the last day of our holiday in Ireland. We spent the weekend catching up with touristy things and our quest to see the culture of Ireland. The photos are a summary of what we have found.... read more