chasing rabbits stateside

2005-08-12T18:25:00.000+01:00

OK, I guess it's time for me to grit my teeth and finally face the end of my blog. I've been back in England for almost a month and it's definately business as usual (i.e. falling asleep at my desk!). My three months in the States seems so far away and a little unreal - did it really happen? Was it really me who went to all of those amazing places ? Has it changed me ?

-Yes - I have photos to prove it.
-Yes - I was that lucky.
-Yes - In some respects.

I have never felt so happy or comfortable in my own skin as I did during my travels. People who met me met the 'real' Kate. Although I now feel a little stifled in Manchester at least I have experienced my own potential and can seek a life in which that is possible all of the time (or more realistically, most of the time). I'm much more willing to take chances, I'll go anywhere and do anything on the basis that I'm pretty certain I'll find my way 'home' (however you define 'home') when the need arises. Plus just the attitiude of 'having a bash' is a greater part of my approach to experiencing all that life has to offer. I am as capable of spending great periods of time alone as I always thought, but I'm also much more sociable than I realised.

Although I have met a number of people I have remained in touch with, and hope that continues, I surprised myself by gradually becoming much more able to deal with the fact that some people enter your life briefly - you have a fabulous time, learn from one another and then move on, and thats ok. Learning when to invest emotionally and when it's just pleasant company for a few hours has been valuable and revealing.

In life as a whole, as well as with regards to this trip I have been learning to give myself more credit for my achievements and those 3 months are something that makes me incredibly proud of myself ! Look at what I did - cool huh ?!!

There are so many people I miss, places I want to return to. As I expected it would, my trip only reinforced my desire to spend some time living in the US. In my entry on the 5th April I said:
"San Francisco, which is my spiritual home and where I’m staying for 3 weeks in attempt to pass as a ‘local’, figure out if I want to relocate there "
I might as well have had a crystal ball. I'm now trying to find a way to spend a prolonged period of time in California ( and yes, a certain Sommelier has provided me with additional enthusiasm for that, but the desire has always been there, and I'm realistic about the slimness of my chances but I'll have a damned good try).

I also developed a greater fondness for my own country - missing the landscapes, the special look and feel of areas like the Lake District. I described Manchester to so many people that I was reminded how great a city it is and how much it has to offer. I found myself being proud to be British (I have strong ties to Scotland as well as England, so although I will often say English it doesn't do full justification to the situation). I missed my friends and family throughout the trip, but I realised how comfortable I was in those relationships and how strong they are and that on my return we'd be as close as ever, and that was proven on my return. I also felt much 'European' - that was how I was viewed by many people I met, as European not just English. I liked this and now crave more time on the otherside of the Channel.

The US has come in for a lot of criticism over the last couple of years, however it would be more accurate to say the 'US Administration'. The people I have spent time with have shown me a country that is being led by individuals who have no idea what many of their people and country are about, whose brightest and most capable citizens would often give anything to leave the country and settle elsewhere. In many respects it's a country with huge problems (politics and health being just two of them), however the powers that be appear to be turning a blind eye to all except the incredibly wealthy and their own childish desire to rule the world. It makes me so angry. This is a country that is the home to some of the kindest, most generous, creative and intelligent people I have met and they are being woefully misrepresented on this side of the Atlantic by a governemnt that wouldn't understand democracy if it slapped them round the back of the head with an oversized piece of Texan beef ! Heck Schwarzenegger became governor - maybe I should stand next time around !!! However, all of that said, it doesn't stop me loving the country and wishing I could go back there tomorrow.

OK, I've been putting this off for far too long now and any ability to be poetic and put together words that will be cherished for a lifetime escape me - I'm sorry.

The time I spent travelling were the best 3 months of my life, that wouldn't have happened without the generosity of the poeple I met along the way and the support of people back home. I won't list you all, I'll be here all day, but you know who you are. Thank you SO much, all of you. I hope to hear from some of you soon and wish everybody well.

Take care of yourselves.

With much love, thanks and fond memories

Kate xxxxxxx

2005-07-31T00:09:00.000+01:00

Vancouver airport is great as airports go, it’s like being in a shopping mall with huge numbers of seats, a mini museum and – hurrah – internet access that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. I tried logging onto my blog to see if I had any comments only to be told that its content was deemed ‘unsuitable’. I like it, I’d been censored !! The downside was queues to get to passport control, the likes of which I haven’t seen since the new Harry Potter book came out, and US customs staff (and that threw me, I thought I was in Canada, how come the staff are US customs officials?) that were unpleasant, awkward and had trouble understanding basic English (how many times do you have to say “I lost it” before they grasp that you lost it !!!). Beyond that there’s not much to tell. I got on the plane and slept all the way through take off ! As usual I didn’t get fed. I have to say I’m not a great fan of United Airlines. No leg space, no food on domestic flights, if they do show films they’re rubbish. Sadly they seem to be one of the cheaper companies so I won’t be seeing the last of them I’m sure.

It was as the plane left Chicago that I cried, I was actually leaving the country, (in the company of someone who didn’t say two words to me during the whole journey, and boy did I need distracting, sadly the only distraction came in the form of the dreadful ‘Miss Congeniality’ - told you they had dreadful taste in movies). By now I was bored of planes, oh SO bored, the novelty had worn off, I was tired, emotional and very uncomfortable (2 weeks later I still feel like my shoulders are bunched up around my ears).

Next stop, Manchester, and guess what ….. it was raining !! Welcome home Kate.

Check back in a couple of days for updates on the after effects.

2005-07-31T00:08:00.000+01:00

While I was in Vancouver I had received an e-mail that had made me grin like the proverbial Cheshire cat. Shana had booked a flight to Seattle !!!! She would land in the morning, hire a car, drive me to Vancouver where we would stay the night, put me on the plane, drive back to Seattle and then fly home. How about that for grand romantic gestures. Any concerns I had about our feelings being mutual were blown right out of the water.

She landed at 8am on the Sunday morning and from about 6.30am to 8.30 am when she came down the escalators I paced back and forth wearing a tramline in floor, checking my watch, checking the arrivals notice board, checking the escalators. Blimey, was she a sight for sore eyes when she finally appeared. She is one beautiful woman, even when my eyes have only had an hours rest ! When we finally prised ourselves apart we picked up the hire car and drove into Seattle (good job I wasn’t driving, there is no way I would have been able to focus on the road ahead!).

It was a beautiful day and Seattle is an attractive city – if a nightmare to navigate. We stopped for breakfast, bought the cutest donut peaches, admired the flowers in the farmers market and then headed off to visit an acquaintence of Shana’s who ran a cake shop. Fabulous carrot cake followed and then a wander around a park. It was such sweet few hours, the sun shone and we walked and talked surrounded by people flying kites, walking dogs, enjoying picnics, not that our attention was on them. Shana also played the heroine, rescuing me from an impressively large and slimy worm that had decided to try and ‘worm its way in’ (arf arf) on our sunbathing (actually it appeared from nowhere, I figure the damn thing could fly), either way I got to see another side to Shana ;) ! Being outdoor equipment junkies we visited the giant REI store for a quick fix – miraculously keeping our wallets in our pockets (I’ve found someone who finds fleece sexy, she’s either perfect or crazy!). Then we started the drive to Vancouver, a pretty route as freeways go (was it a freeway or highway? I never can remember, or tell the difference), we were surrounded by water and mountains – perfect. There were no complications as we crossed over the border, although I was asked if I would be returning to the US in the next 3 months, I said no. After we drove off I remembered my trip to New York in 2 months time and quietly had a minor coronary, all the while telling Shana I wasn’t worried. We were entertained by people playing badminton and sunbathing on the lawns outside the checkpoint, not an obvious choice for a relaxing day out. One guy, crossing the border on foot, weaved his way between the cars carrying nothing but a bag of golf clubs. You probably won’t be surprised to hear that security from the US to Canada is a little more relaxed and more like travelling through Europe.

Once in Vancouver we headed straight for a hotel and settled in for the evening. It wasn’t until we were having dinner that it hit me just how significant the evening was. This was it, the final night of my 3 month tour, the trip of a lifetime. It was over. It felt like crossing the finish line of an amazing race. I’d done it. Kate the homebody had spent 3 months on the road, no problems, no threats to my security. Common sense, a little bit of the old grey matter and a certain amount of luck was sending me home in one piece. Teary eyed I talked about some of my experiences, all of them ‘highs’, there had been no lows, unless you counted all the goodbyes I had had to say. I had been amazingly fortunate and had 3 of the best months of my life. Suddenly, I had reached the end. I don’t know if I had blocked it out or if I had just naively thought it wouldn’t have much of an impact on me. Back in the hotel room I had a cry and realised how grateful and happy I was to be spending my final night with Shana instead of sleeping, alone, on a bench at Vancouver airport as had been my plan. It was wonderful that I got any additional time with her, whatever the occasion, but this made it particularly special and an incredibly significant evening for the both of us. I swear there could not have been a better way to end my trip than in the arms of the woman I had fallen in love with.

The next morning we had our second tearful goodbye at an airport (there will be more of these, but the happy ‘hello’s that follow each time we see each other again will more than wipe out the pain of the last goodbye) and I stood on the pavement watching her drive off, heartbroken to see her go, but amazed at my luck at meeting her in the first place.

2005-07-31T00:07:00.001+01:00

OK, Saturday night at Seattle airport I managed to find a bench without arms, still not a restful experience and I probably got about an hours sleep. The same tannoy announcements are made constantly despite the place being deserted, and a collection of staff kept congregating about 15 yards from where I was trying to sleep in order to swap gossip as they started and ended their shifts – how would you like it if I came into your bedroom in the middle of the night and started talking mindless nonsense –huh ? Mind you the restlessness was also a result of excitement. I had stayed at the airport despite not flying out of there the next day. Why ? I had a plane to meet ………………..

2005-07-31T00:07:00.000+01:00

The following day started with a leisurely morning during which time John took me out on his rowing boat and taught me how to fly fish. Neither of us had any intention of catching anything, but the action of casting and reeling in over and over again is actually quite theraputic. At lunch time we took our places outside the house for the second parade of the weekend (this town sure knows how to party). This time large numbers of John’s family joined us and I realised how big a community event this was.

This time marching bands were included, some in historical (or is that hysterical) costumes playing Yankee Doodle Dandy, bagpipes played and brought a tear to my eye (!). I have never seen such ill fitting uniforms, too narrow, too short, too big, too long) teenage boys that looked desperately bored, a couple looked like they couldn’t even spell fire let alone put one out. A few were led by motorcyclists (the ‘dykes on bikes’ as I referred to them). I do wonder what the various ‘Ladies Auxilliary Units’ do, or they merely cooks, bottle washers and laundry maids. I did feel sorry for them, the heat was crippling me and I was sat in a sun lounger with a beer in my hand. I’m sure they do a great job and I shoudn’t be so cruel, but it was wonderful entertainment.

The other entertainment of the day was a game called ‘how are you related to John?’. John’s family is more like a spider graph than an easy to follow family tree (although most modern families are like that these days it seems) with numerous exes, step siblings and newly weds (for those of you having a minor panic, he won’t mind me saying all of this). They were lovely and welcoming, but I did give up trying to figure out who they all were when after I asked someone how he was related to one woman “that’s my mother” – nothing was simple, names became my only concern.

Then, all too quickly, it was time to leave and start my somewhat protracted journey home. I had to fly form the east coast to the west in order to go east again. The following 3 days looked like this:
Albany to Chicago to Seattle (day 1)
Drive to Vancouver (day 2)
Vancouver to Chicago to Manchester (day 3)
Please bear in mind that 5 days earlier I had flown from Seattle to Chicago to Albany. I’m far too familiar with Chicago O’Hare Airport and my right rib cage will tell you that Seattle airport benches are not a good place to spend the night. I am, without doubt, a seasoned traveller within the US, and although travelling by plane is far more comfortable, going by Greyhound was far more interesting, challenging and more of an opportunity for personal growth (I know, I sound like I’m talking out of my plane shaped arse, but it’s true). However, that said, I’ll still snatch the plane ticket out of your hand just because it speeds up the whole process.

America's finest !!

2005-07-31T00:06:00.000+01:00

America's finest !!, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

"Help, my house is on fire" .... Who ya gonna call ????????????????

Enjoying the parade

2005-07-31T00:05:00.002+01:00

Enjoying the parade, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Even the dog had a front row seat !

Burning privys !!!

2005-07-31T00:05:00.001+01:00

Burning privys !!!, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

This wasn't the only one. What a strange obsession !!

2005-07-31T00:05:00.000+01:00

Friday 15th July.

We were spending another night at John Snr’s before I departed and boy were we in for a treat! That night there was a local Mardi Gras parade and it passed right by the front door. It was hysterical. Made up mainly of fire crews (there was a convention in town – as ya do !) it lasted all of 10 minutes but provided fabulous entertainment. Many of the fire crews are volunteers and clearly aren’t equipped to deal with physically demanding work on a full time basis (well, any basis at all). I doubt they could rescue a cat stuck in a tree let alone stop a blaze from destroying a building. I have never seen such large people in uniforms, accompanied by women so old I figured they had been resurrected from the local cemetery just to bolster the numbers. Chunky (I feel the need to be kind after all they do volunteer their free time) firefighters rode in circles down the street on …….. lawn mowers. A large number of floats had the theme of burning privys (is this common in the whole of the US or is it just upstate New York that this occurs a lot? Either way I will think twice before using an outdoor toilet!). After 10 minutes of laughter and numerous sarcastic comments were passed back and forth between John and I, we reluctantly admitted that it was over.

2005-07-31T00:04:00.000+01:00

Our final full day was spent on the beach, at first glance it was overcast but it was wonderfully warm and I read (Wanderlust-A History of Walking by Rebecca Solnit, Wanderlust being close to my heart !), and didn’t notice that I was being slowly cooked and in the process was developing the most luminous tan lines.

I had a chance to check my e-mails and was relieved to discover that there was work waiting for me back at the city council when I went home. Brain numbingly dull work, but at least I would be able to start paying off the no doubt monstrous credit card bill. That was a huge relief, my shoulders were starting to wrap themselves around my ears at the thought of the ‘real world’ waiting for me and how awful it would be to find myself out of work and free to do nothing but wish I was still travelling, so, a big sigh of relief.

We rounded the day off with more food and drink and more than slightly tipsy I sat in bed and wrote:

My god, the things I have done. I can’t believe it’s almost over. I have been to Las Vegas, the Stockyards Dallas, the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, I’ve listened to Jazz in New Orleans, survived 18 hour journeys on Greyhound buses, been to Alabama (of all places), stood outside Capitol Hill and the White House, and so much more. I remember those days when it had just started and the trip seemed endless. Now I will be home in less than a week. It’s bizarre, crazy, unreal. I’ve met the most wonderful people and seen the most spectacular places. I’ve lived out of my backpack for a month (I know that’s nothing compared to those who travel the world for a year or longer, but for someone who considered herself a bit of a homebody that’s not bad going), and worn my clothes to death. I’ve eaten the most amazing food and the most appalling, I’ve met people with more money than sense and those with practically nothing but hearts so big you couldn’t put a price on it. I will never forget Justin, the young lad on a Greyhound bus, with most of his family in prison; he wanted to be James Bond, or a missionary. I’ve climbed hills in the most spectacular locations (Cathedral Rocks was one of the happiest days of my life), and arrived at Greyhound stations in the roughest parts of cities. I am aware that I have been to more places in America than many Americans, I’ve seen the country at its best and at its worst, and you know what ? I love it. I love the people and the geography, the food and the buses, the weather and the animals (ok, not the mosquitos). I’ve never been happier. I’ve never been more proud of who and what I am, an English, gay woman. It might seem strange that I had to leave my country to achieve this, but I have and I know I won’t lose any of those things.

You can tell I was tipsy but it gets the point across !!!

The mortuary table

2005-07-31T00:03:00.001+01:00

The mortuary table, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Hmm, not quite my cup of tea!

I bet it had a name.

2005-07-31T00:03:00.000+01:00

I bet it had a name., originally uploaded by LaMinch.

I do eat meat and fish but I prefer my food to be served minus the face !!!

2005-07-31T00:02:00.000+01:00

That evening I had my first taste of lobster and clams. It was like a massive excavation job, tools and all. Three of us were sat at large table for four (don’t forget this is America, a table for four there would fit six in Europe - heh heh – I’ll stop with the weight comments I promise!) and we covered it with food, plates for bits of legs and claws, bowls of butter, drinks, by the end of it the scene was not unlike that of an autopsy. And what did I make of the food ? Well, I’m very glad I tried it (that is, after all, what a trip like this is about) but I am in no rush to try it again !

We really did see whales !

2005-07-31T00:01:00.000+01:00

We really did see whales !, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

we were surrounded by the things - spectacular.

David (left) and John.

2005-07-31T00:00:00.000+01:00

David and John, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

My fabulous companions.

2005-07-30T23:59:00.000+01:00

That evening we ate out, enjoyed a few cocktails and explored Provincetown, a very quaint town that is as pretty as it looks on postcards. It is also remarkably gay. It was like walking onto a film set for the latest queer flick. A particular sort of gay man was in the majority and it wasn’t until a couple of days later that we saw the posters and discovered that it was ‘Bear week’ !! A lot of hair and proudly displayed rounded stomachs were in ‘P Town’ that week. It had a lovely friendly fun feel to the place.

The following day we headed out to sea and went whale watching, what a fabulous experience. I didn’t think I’d get particularly excited but I turned into a 12 year old girl!!!!! I shouted and yelped along with everyone else when a whale came into a view, and there were so many of them circling us and coming to the surface. We were told what to look for (huge numbers of birds hovering just above the water, clouds of water as they ‘blow’ or whatever its called). They seemed to spend an equal amount of time on either side of the boat, on the one hand giving everyone the chance to take photos, on the other being so quick that you got the occasional blur on your screen. I have one or two half decent shots but nothing fabulous, but who cares, I had a blast.

A relaxing stroll on Cape Cod

2005-07-30T23:58:00.000+01:00

A relaxing stroll on Cape Cod, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Such beautiful, clean beaches.

2005-07-30T23:49:00.000+01:00

OK, I’m back ……….

11th July onwards.

Where was I , oh yes, a traumatic night in Seattle airport was followed by 2 flights to Albany. I don’t know how I do it but I always end up sitting next to the least chatty people on the plane, I don’t expect their life story, nor do I expect them to become my therapist for the length of the flight, but a bit of pre take off banter would be nice. Anyway, the flights spent in silence came to an end and as I walked through arrivals at Albany David and John were waiting, camera at the ready to get a shot of the traveller. It was wonderful to see them, we had got on so well in Dallas and as I expected we slotted straight into easy conversation and jokes about John’s family. Then my ‘party trick’ of the week reared its head for the first time. I have no idea why but every time I got into the car I fell asleep. It didn’t matter where we were going or how long the journey was, without fail I would get into the car, fasten my seat belt and within minutes my head was lolling, my mouth was open and I away with the fairies, it never failed !!!

We were spending the night at John’s fathers house. It is right on the bank of the Hudson river with its own jetty. A beautiful spot to have a bbq, knock back a beer or two and fend off the attentions of the, erm, well, non too attractive Georgia, John Snr’s Boston Terrier. I got to bore John and David with talk of a certain young woman, find out what they had been up to and get eaten alive by mosquitos (I’d forgotten about the damn things and wasn’t happy to find they had the ability to eat through my linen pants. Next time I come to this country I’m spending the two weeks before bathing in mosquito repellent and wearing a wet suit for the whole trip, it might not be the biggest turn on but at least I won’t be the ‘chef’s special’ !).

The following morning we drove to Cape Cod (yes, I slept for most of the journey), made our way to the Eventide Motel in Wellfleet (a lovely clean place that I would recommend). We headed straight for the trail behind the property that would take us to the beach and set off on a leisurly walk. All was well until we decided to change from the bike track we were following to the footpath that took us through the trees. HUGE HUGE mistake. John and I were attacked by swarms of ………. You got it, mosquitos. I swear it was like The Birds in miniature, we were covered in the *%@king things. I was wearing a vest top and by the time we had escaped my back looked like an ordnance survey map for the alps. We made our way to a beautiful white sandy beach and spent a couple of hours walking along the shoreline, spotting seals and David identifying birds and shell life (the guy has a mind like an encyclopedia, his brain seems to work like a sponge, it’s most impressive). It was wonderful to take off my shoes and paddle through the water, although I have to admit it was kind of hard, beach walks like that should be done holding someone’s hand. Sorry John you’re a handsome chap and you do come from Texas, but your voice is a little too deep !

Canal Street, Manchester, aka 'The Gay Village.

2005-07-28T00:36:00.000+01:00

Canal Street, Manchester, aka 'The Gay Village., originally uploaded by LaMinch.

In the meantime ...... welcome to Manchester.

2005-07-28T00:23:00.000+01:00

OK folks, I know I have been utterly useless at writing up the end of my trip, I will do it I promise. I seem to have hit the ground with rather a bump and maybe part of my brain reckons that if I don't complete the blog then the trip will never really be over !!! I will do it and I will give you an update on current activites / overall view of the trip. Photos will also appear. Give me a couple of days and I'll be back on the job. Love to all, KP xxx

2005-07-23T00:18:00.000+01:00

I had wanted to spend some time in Stanley Park and we set off to explore some of its trails. However, its HUGE. 10 minutes in we kept getting lost. Eventually we found ourselves at the path that follows the sea wall. It’s an incredibly popular area and hundreds of cyclists and skaters made their way past us and other walkers on a very well managed path. I would have loved to hire skates and wobble my way round (I’m not very graceful but I always enjoy myself!). After a while we realised we had gone too far to turn back, I didn’t mind, I was hungry but there is a pretty and restful view all the way around the path. It was also great fun to watch the tandems cycle by; 9 times out of 10 the rear cyclist would be a young woman completely inappropriately dressed, her head resting against her boyfriends back and her feet no where near the pedals. We kept going, and kept going……. It seemed to last forever because by this time we were starving. By the time we made it to the end and staggered into a restaurant we were incapable of speech and were about ready to pass out.. We then hung out at the beach for a while where I kept falling asleep, I couldn’t help it, I was exhausted and the sound of water is not unlike a lullaby!
Next stop was a drag king event at Lick , ‘Wild Things – Twisted Drag Show’ was a fundraiser for the East Vancouver SPCA (an animal charity, there were a lot of jokes about pussy’s, say no more!). They finally appeared on stage at 12 and it was all over by 12.30. I have to say I’ve never quite got this lip synching thing. I figure if you can’t sing, don’t pretend to, go find another talent. We all have one even if its just hanging a spoon off the end of our nose at least it’s genuine and doesn’t rely on borrowing the talents (in this case vocal) of somebody else. Mini rant over.

Sunday was relaxed and involved food and then a bus to Seattle airport where I would fly to Albany. The bus trip was uneventful, unless you include the US border where the dog sniffing our luggage decided it needed a few return trips to mine. The bus driver was very amusing (once you’d learnt to decipher his accent), on the subject of fruit; “if you don’t declare any fruit you have they will fine you a couple of hundred dollars and it will be the most expensive fruit you never got to eat. If you declare it you have two options, one, they will let you eat it there and then, or two, they will throw it away for you. So if you have any watermelons I suggest you start eating them now”. Well, he made me laugh.

I had planned to spend the night at Seattle airport, my bank account had been completely drained by this point and I was worried about maxing out my credit card. It wasn’t the best nights sleep I’ve never had. Below are the comments from my journal:

Got about an hours restless sleep on a bench. Now I’m tired cold and grumpy. I’m tired of American security, even when it’s reasonable it feels unreasonable (kind of like the little boy who cried wolf scenario). My own country just got bombed and even I think this place is paranoid. I want a shower, a comfy bed, decent food, or even just crap food that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, and conversation that doesn’t consist of “I’m disabled and they wouldn’t come from behind the desk to help me”. You’re disabled because you’re fat madam, learn to eat less burgers.

I knew I was back in America (with the exception of California) the minute I got off the bus in Seattle: A disturbingly large proportion of people were disturbingly large. It’s worse when you see it in the kids (it is the parents responsibility). Over weight kids with pale unhealthy skin. Initially I assumed that they would be teased at school, then I realised they are probably the norm.

I must be getting old; Bon Jovi blaring out of the speakers at 4am only makes me want to kill someone. I’m assuming that the attitude of the coffee stand staff is ‘we’re awake so we’re damned well making sure you are’.

There’s a two and a half foot dragon, wearing pyjamas wandering around the coffee shop. That kid has parents with a great sense of humour – either that or my lack of sleep is playing with my mind. I want that outfit. The claw gloves alone would give me hours of entertainment.

What is it with this bloody country and sales tax ? Just add it to the damned price on the label will you. Like that would be too much to ask

Hmmm, I’m not good when I’m tired, clearly !!!!

Detail from the Raven and the First Man

2005-07-22T23:52:00.003+01:00

Detail from the Raven and the First Man, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

The Raven and the First Man

2005-07-22T23:52:00.002+01:00

The Raven and the First Man, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Outside exhibits

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Outside exhibits, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver

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Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

2005-07-22T23:42:00.000+01:00

Saturday 9th July

We made our way to the University of British Columbia to pay a visit to the Museum of Anthropology. A fabulous museum, at first glance it seems quite small and to hold a relatively small selection of exhibits, but it’s almost as though the place grows once you are inside it. It educates people about such a fascinating history, it was impossible to take it all in, I wanted to sit for hours and contemplate the beautiful imagery. From it’s beautifully carved front doors (made by four master Gitxsan artists) which contain within the design a narrative of the first people of the Skeena River, to its amazing visible storage section (nothing is hidden from visitors), it was a wonderful experience. I was particularly captured by The Raven and The First Man by Bill Reid which depicts a moment in the history of the Haida people. I read about it’s creation and installation and practically ran down the corridor to see it for myself. There are fascinating outdoor exhibits and I even caught a rehearsal of a live performance of drumming by a local group. A great way to spend a few hours.

2005-07-21T23:01:00.000+01:00

Thursday 7th July.

My flight to Vancouver was delayed due to a dent in the engine casing. Can you imagine if Stagecoach buses worked on that basis, there would never be a bus on the roads, in fact that whole of Manchester would be pedestrianised. I know, it’s a plane, let me whinge. It was made harder by the London news. I felt trapped and lonely, a million miles from home or a friendly face. On my arrival in Vancouver things improved somewhat. I had missed the bus that would take me downtown where I was meeting my friend Kat. As a result I shared a limousine with a lovely newly married couple. Yep, I gate crashed a honeymoon, but they got a cameraman into the bargain as I helped them tape a short video in the back of the car (no, not that kind of movie, a ‘hi mum and dad’ kind of thing). Get that – a Minchin in a Limo, not something you’d expect to see. Not to say we don’t suit the whole thing. I happen to think I look right at home in them, sadly my parents haven’t taken the hint and bought a winning lottery ticket.

I couldn’t grasp that I was in another country for approximately the first 36 hours. I’d only been in the air for 2 hours, people had a similar accent (they’ll kill me for saying that) and they still drive on the wrong side of the road (and it is wrong I tell you). It was a lovely relaxed weekend in a beautiful city with the most amazing backdrop, well, when the mountains weren’t hidden by cloud. It seems that it is becoming increasingly necessary for me to be in places by the ocean. The final month and a half of my trip will have been by water; sadly the Manchester Ship Canal just won’t do it for me when I get home. This is a real ‘outdoors’ city, kayaks attached to car roofs, people on bikes, skateboards and skates everywhere you looked. An abundance of fleece, trail shoes and lots of healthy looking complexions.

Saturday morning we explored Granville Island, Vancouver’s answer to Covent Garden, eating sticky buns and admiring the boats. Great fun was to be had in the children’s market – sorry people, no presents for anyone but Julian – I’m not sure who will get the most fun out of his gifts, him or me! Heck I’m such a kid. We explored the Little Sister Bookstore, a lesbian and gay bookstore with an amazing array of books, I’m not sure how I managed it but my credit card remained in my pocket. Unheard of, a Minchin going into a bookstore and leaving empty handed. The plan had been to go out that night but we were both so tired that we cooked and stayed in watching Pirates of the Caribbean as one of the boats from the film was docked just outside the city. After dinner and before the movie we had left the house long enough to walk to the beach and attempt to watch the sun set, cloud prevented us from enjoying that view. As we watched the pirate ship (actually I’m not sure which one it was) fired its canons a few times. We were also entertained by two young boys who played in the water. They must have been about 8 or 9 years old, they laughed and splashed one another, played ‘sharks’ and generally had a huge amount of fun. It was a delight to watch them, and to think there wasn’t a game boy in sight. They were oblivious to the cold, one of them shouting at regular intervals, ‘I want to live in the water’, it made my night……

2005-07-21T22:41:00.000+01:00

While I was waiting for my (delayed) flight to leave San Francisco I phoned Shana, she broke the news to me of the London bombing. I had never felt so far from home, so disconnected from ‘real’ life. I have so many friends who live in London or who make regular trips there that I wouldn’t have known who to phone first, as it was I had run out of cash, the phones wouldn’t take my credit cards and I didn’t have a mobile phone. Having spent the best part of 3 months in such an enormous country the UK felt like the very small island that it actually is. In the UK my generation and those before me have been brought up familiar with the word ‘terrorism’, the IRA made sure of that, so although we are shocked and outraged at the event itself, the idea of terrorism doesn’t send us into a state of panic and over reaction. We don’t resort to the kind of fortress mentality that only serves to piss off further and make more determined those with a grudge. I had no idea how the powers that be were reacting; my only hope is that that UK doesn’t pull up its draw bridge. I have made so many friends during my time in the US that I have a greater sense of internationalism than ever before. I hate to think that the response to this horrendous event will result in the loss of freedom (and I use that word lightly) to travel the world over visiting friends and loved ones. Pulling the duvet over heads, drawing the curtains and refusing to trust anything or anyone that is different will isolate us from our friends, as well as those who consider themselves to be our enemies and it appears right now we need all the friends we can get. Although, that’s not the ‘British’ way, and besides which, as much as he might think he is, Bush isn’t our leader !!!!!!!!

Point Reyes

2005-07-21T22:29:00.000+01:00

Point Reyes, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

An amazing place to visit on my final day in California.

2005-07-21T22:28:00.000+01:00

…… Each evening I continued to stroll the exhausting (!) half a block to Jardiniere to be fed fine food and have drinks poured for me by bar staff who knew my name, asked me how my day had been and how long I was staying (simply, I’m sure, on the basis that I was keeping their boss happy, as opposed to any desire to continue enjoying my company!).

On Wednesday, once Shana had finished at work, we strolled down to the renovated ferry building, enjoyed cocktails and met more of her restaurant trade friends. I was on a mission to compare mojitos across the city (Katherine/Col – Shana knows the ‘Mojito story’ of Kate G. and I, now she really does have an idea of the loon she is involved with). Despite buying food for a quiet night in, we hatched a last minute plan – why not go camping?! Neither of us are short on spontaneity it seems, so after goodbye drinks at Jardiniere we threw the tent in the back of the truck and headed for Point Reyes.

We arrived in the dark, pitched the tent and cooked salmon over an open fire (salmon- we’re just classy birds I guess !). As usual in these parts raccoons attempted to join us (and a cat that beat them all on girth size), although they seemed unimpressed by the balsamic vinegar (no taste, clearly a Big Mac fan). Campsites in America (well, the 2 I’ve stayed at) are much more orderly than those I have experienced in the UK, none of this ‘there’s the field, pitch your tent anywhere’ malarkey. In the US there’s a space for your tent, a parking bay (cars must be factored into every activity in this country, they seem to be as necessary as a pulse!), picnic table, fire pit and a lockable cupboard to keep the wildlife from your jam and toothpaste. Very civilised.

The next day we followed a beautiful wooded trail to the ocean. Although, I must admit to a longing for a hiking route that requires a compass and doesn’t involve trails that you could drive a bus down, I quite like the challenge of getting lost occasionally. A fabulous blue sky was complemented by an amazing view, and then it was a brisk walk home and a drive to the airport.

I’m sure you can imagine the rest of the story, I won’t dwell on it. The ‘movie’ had a typically filmic goodbye. I wonder how many internationally flavoured ‘gay goodbyes’ have occurred at San Francisco Airport. The airport staff probably reach the week following Pride and take bets as to how many will occur !! (update, we both have air tickets to New York and will meet up in September).

2005-07-20T20:18:00.000+01:00

Tuesday I finally made it to Alcatraz, one of the few true tourist destinations that I had really wanted to experience on the trip. To be honest it wasn’t all that I had hoped. Not that I would wish for anyone to suffer, but the morbid/macabre part of my mind found it far less disturbing than I had expected. It’s a prison, on a rock, the end. Many of the stories about the inmates are urban myths. I might go as far as telling people who haven’t been not to, keep the story fuelled images alive. Sail past and imagine the escape attempts but leave it at that. However I don’t regret going, it was an important tick on my list of ‘to dos’.

That evening I met up with Fi and we spent a couple of hours hanging out at Delores park, in the cold and dark !!! She was helping guard the stage that the theatre company she is working for have been using for their outdoor show. In my attempt to show the world my new tattoo I was still wearing Birkenstocks and my feet were frozen solid by the time we left and headed for beer and chocolate at Jardiniere.

Shana

2005-07-20T20:15:00.000+01:00

Shana on boat, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Hey world, hands off !!

2005-07-20T20:12:00.000+01:00

Hi, long time no write !!! I’m back in the UK but have so much catching up to do on my blog it will take a couple of days. So, as you read this bear in mind that I wrote all this on my travels so it might say “today I went whale watching” whereas in reality I’m sat in my parents study, a grey sky outside and a fuzzy moggy shedding hair all over the keyboard! Here goes:

1st-7th July
My final (and it was final – I had to leave at some point) period of time in San Francisco passed like a dream. You couldn’t plan/invent/script 5 days better than those I spent with Shana before I boarded my plane on the 7th. The first couple of days I took it easy, still feeling dizzy and eating simple foods for fear of the consequences! But by Monday the 4th July I was determined that things were going to improve. As a result my first 4th July experience/celebration was spent sailing in the bay. Kevin, a fellow restaurant ‘bod’, invited us to join him and a couple of friends on his boat. The sky was blue, the wind strong enough to give us some excitement, the views spectacular and the company great fun. I couldn’t believe where I was. I held off pinching myself or I’d have drawn blood from having to do it all day. 4th July sailing around the bay, beautiful San Francisco in my sights and a certain someone’s arms around me – bliss – until …. I GOT SEA SICK, DAMN IT ! I’m not a total stranger to water, I’ve windsurfed and canoes in my time, I have no problems on ferry. Great timing, my system chooses a moment at which I hope to make a good impression to decide to make me as queezy (sp) as hell. I managed to avoid having to lean over the side of the boat, but only just. This is something I am going to have to practice back home (the sailing not the vomiting). That evening we headed back home to watch the fireworks from the roof of the apartment, and then pass out!

2005-07-14T21:08:00.000+01:00

OK folks, just so none of you are panicing - although I see no evidence of this !! I am currently in Cape Cod having a fabulously relaxed end to the trip. Limited net access means that I won't get to update until next tuesday and I'll fill you in on everything.
Mum, Dad, my plane gets into Manchester at 7.40am on tuesday, not sure what gate !
Love to all
KP xx

2005-07-05T18:09:00.000+01:00

OK, I’m starting to get some disgruntled e-mails, and seen as my exploring is currently limited by a bad case of nausea and occasional dizzy spells this is a good time to sit down and type for a while !!!!

This additional week in San Francisco has been more than just fun and has been caused by the cute smile of a certain ‘Texas’ – real name Shana,(see comments 6/27). My bike ride in the Pride Parade finished with an invite to dinner by a woman who made me wish I wasn’t leaving the city the next day. We had a fabulous evening at A16, a smart Italian restaurant in the Marina neighborhood. Shana works in the restaurant business so managed to get us a table (it’s great spending time with people who have ‘connections’!) and we got so much attention I began to wonder if I wasn’t hanging out with a member of San Francisco royalty! The following day she took me to Muir Woods for a quick hike and then we said goodbye. I don’t know what made me think I could leave her, I eventually came to my senses and called her ; “what would you say if I said I wanted to spend more time with you?”. Well, the response was positive and I’ve been here ever since!

Since then I’ve been to the San Francisco Opera to see a wonderful production of The Queen of Spades. It made me crave more opera, so that’s one activity I’ll be doing more of when I return (fortunately Manchester is a destination for many world class touring operas and we have Opera North so I won’t be left wanting). I spend a lot of time hanging out at Jardiniere where my ‘host’ works. A fancy restaurant (when I arrived with my backpack I initially refused to go in until I had been allowed to change into something smarter than trail trainers and slightly grubby hiking pants, I was convinced to go in and was quickly befriended by the wonderful bar staff), I’ve become a regular, propping up the bar and trying out the fabulous menu. I’ve been introduced to many of the staff and most of them know me by name now. It’s like my own little high class episode of Cheers!!

On Wednesday we made use of a gift voucher Shana had been given and had a night at the Ritz Carlton hotel in Half Moon Bay. Flashy is definitely one word I would use. When you plan a trip like this the Ritz Carlton is not somewhere that you expect to find yourself spending the evening ! After a lazy breakfast Thursday morning was spent kayaking at Pillar Point. I loved it, we paddled past hundreds of pelicans, seals weren’t too far from us and we watched a very cute otter at play in the bay. Lunch, a drive along highway 1 and then dinner at a sister-restaurant of Jardiniere, the name of which escapes me, however it’s a funky place with huge felly fish for lampshades, underwater paintings, it’s a great place and once again we were given the red carpet treatment. It’s been fabulous having the opportunity to spend such ‘quality’ time with Shana, I don’t recall the last time I felt so comfortable with someone, had interest paid to me by someone so kind and sweet, who treats me so well and is so damned good looking. I’m incredibly lucky.

It is true that the people make a city. I wasn’t so keen on the place in the first couple of weeks, my hosts were lovely but I found it hard to warm to the place. People weren’t chatty or particularly friendly in cafes or bars when I tried to strike up conversation (which was never a problem anywhere else in the country, unless you count Las Vegas where it would result in someone offering to sell you drugs or find out what make of underwear you possess – you get my meaning). A number of people I have met, including SF locals have said that it’s not always the most friendly city. The more time I spend here though the more I warm to it. Great restaurants/bars/shops, and there is also no better way to get to know a place than on the back of a motorbike. I love the fog, at night it gives it a mysterious quality, by day it just makes it more interesting, the weather is as changeable as in the UK so I can handle that. There’s plenty of hills around the place to keep my country-girl legs happy (although I am still piling on the weight and am out of breath at the top of stairs), the public transport system here is great (something they should pick up on in the UK are bike racks on the front of buses and trams – fabulous idea and so so simple). I love that it’s by the water (although that has also completely confused the ‘sense of direction’ part of my brain, I still don’t know which was is north - actually , since having met Shana, I don’t know which way is up!!)

Now, I’ve come down with ‘something’ and the last thing I need to be doing is spending 15 hours on a Greyhound bus. As a result I’m in SF for a couple more days. I need sleep, food at regular intervals and all those things that we explorers figure we can do without, in the mistaken belief that its possible to be superwoman/man and that the usual rules of existence don’t count for us while we are on our travels ! I’m sad that I won’t make it to Portland as I was looking forward to meeting Mary, whose constant support and interest has made her feel like a friend despite having never met. However, I will endeavour to meet her at some point and there are worse places to be than San Francisco.

2005-06-28T04:00:00.000+01:00

Latest update: I'm still in San Francisco and will probably stay for most of the week. I've made too many new friends over this weekend to dash off. Then its up to Portland to join HC member Mary who has been a keen follower of my trip to date and whom I can't wait to meet.

2005-06-28T03:59:00.000+01:00

Yes, as expected, I left the ride wanting a bike of my own. I had been warned that it was addictive and boy were they right ! I'll be the cool teacher with the shaved head, tattoos and a motorbike, either that or I'll be unemployable !!!!

These 2 events are now 2 of the highlights of my trip. It was fantastic to take part in such an iconic part of gay celebrations. To be able to say that I was Dyke on a Bike at San Francisco's Gay Pride march is incredible.

I owe a huge thanks to Maxine and Sheila who allowed me to ride with them, and to Billie, Kate, Jeanette, Jude and Donna who helped make my Pride so much fun.

line dancing at Pride

2005-06-28T03:52:00.000+01:00

line dancing at Pride, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

I spent some time exploring the different stages and groups, like this, the country and western area. It was fabulous to see grizzly old cowboys dancing together.

Bikers back

2005-06-28T03:51:00.000+01:00

Bikers back, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Donna's wonderful sticker. As we were wandering around the main celebration area a woman called Donna over and pointed the sticker out to her friend and said; " See Rita, God doesn't hate you".

Max and Lesley

2005-06-28T03:49:00.000+01:00

Max and Lesley, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

I didn't see Maxine and Lesley until the very end. Max is an experienced 'Dyke on a Bike' and was right when she told me it would be an incredibly memorable experience.

2005-06-28T03:41:00.000+01:00

The crowds were amazing, with cheers and shouts of 'dykes rule', 'we love you', they clapped and whistled, camera flashes were going off everywhere. I have never felt so proud of who and what I am. The feeling of support,love, acceptance was unbelievable. People leaned out of windows in hotels and offices, waving rainbow flags and banners of support. We waved and 'whooped' and often just screamed with delight. And the bikes ... wow, I'm hooked. It was amazing just riding into town but to also ride as part of a group that earlier had been laughing and joking, and to share this experience with them was wonderful. This was Sheila's first Pride on a bike, and the first time she had ever ridden with someone on the back, so we were both virgins all round!!! I didn't want it to end, right up to the very last minute there were people lining the route, even as made our way down the side streets to park. We all met up again, laughed and hugged and headed off to get lunch.

Getting ready

2005-06-28T03:13:00.000+01:00

Getting ready, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Jude 'titivating' (is that word only used in the UK?!)

Jeanette, Jude and Donna

2005-06-28T03:01:00.001+01:00

Jeanette, Jude and Donna, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

The biker 'pack' I became an honourary member of for the day. Thank you ladies, I had a ball. xx

I got to be a B.O.B !!!

2005-06-28T03:01:00.000+01:00

I got to be a B.O.B !!!, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

The wonderful Sheila and the Biker Chick!

2005-06-28T03:00:00.000+01:00

I had such a fantastic time that I was keen to be able to take part in the main Pride Parade on Sunday. It's a Parade that is so big it takes a couple of hours for the floats to pass along the parade route. At the front, once again, are the Dykes on Bikes, only this time there are around 500 bikes. A friend of a friend of a friend (!), Sheila, didn't have a B.O.B. and offered to take me. Boy was I chuffed! I was picked up by Jeanette at 8am on Sunday morning and rode with Sheila, Jeanette, Jude and Donna to the line up point on Market. Gradually everyone gathered and I was surrounded by some of the most beautiful and well cared for bikes I have ever seen (there was a lot of disposable income on display!). The level of camaraderie was incredible, people I had seen on saturday would come and chat, we laughed and joked getting incredibly excited. Then at 10am we were off.

Wonderful support

2005-06-28T02:52:00.000+01:00

Wonderful support, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

The crowds were so glad to see us. I was overwhelmed by the levels of support.

'get em out' !!!

2005-06-28T02:51:00.000+01:00

'get em out' !!!, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

The Dykes on Bikes were followed by (at a guess) a couple of thousand women, many carrying banners, not all of them fully clothed! This was a 'safe space/event' and everyone was free to express themselves as they wished, many made the most of this opportunity to 'be themselves'.

Dykes on Bikes

2005-06-28T02:49:00.001+01:00

Dykes on Bikes, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Everyone of us was 'all smiles'.

Dykes on bikes

2005-06-28T02:49:00.000+01:00

Dykes on bikes, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

The amount of support was wonderful, it was such an emotional experience.

Huge crowds watched us set off

2005-06-28T02:48:00.000+01:00

Huge crowds watched us set off, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Check out the crowds that waved us off!

2005-06-28T02:41:00.000+01:00

This weekend I had the time of my life. It was San Francisco Gay Pride, the biggest celebration of its kind in the world.
On saturday the Dyke March took place. Live music and speakers appeared on a stage in Delores Park to a crowd of thousands made up of predomianantly gay women. At 7pm the Dyke March set off around the Mission district and made its way to Castro. The March is led by a huge group of 'Dykes on Bikes', in this case approximately 200 bikes led the march and I WAS ON ONE OF THEM!!!! Maxine, my host for the week, had invited me to be her B.O.B (Bitch on Back. It was a fantastic experience. Crowds of people lined the pavements to cheer us on, everyone was so supportive and I rode around the route with a huge grin on my face. I was over the moon and am SO greatful to Maxine (who, by the way, has been a wonderful host, although now I would say a great friend).

2005-06-25T09:42:00.000+01:00

It seems I was right first time around - the shoes are all over San Francisco !

2005-06-24T08:51:00.000+01:00

HAPPY BIRHTDAY MUM, have a fabulous day. I'll phone - I promise !!

2005-06-24T08:36:00.000+01:00

Yesterday I went into the City Lights Bookstore (a quick visit turned into over an hour, but then I'm a Minchin, we all exited the womb with our head in a book!). I expected to leave with a book by one of the 'Beats', afterall, what else would you buy there? But once in amongst the bookshelves I found myself desperately homesick for European literature. I am surrounded by American accents and wanted to read something that allowed me to have a European accent rattling around my head. I spent forever browsing, considering work by Mulisch, Marai (you have to read his book Embers - amazing), Bergelson, Dickens, Bronte, I left with Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, after having to decide between that and an abridged version of The Diary of Samuel Pepys.
Today I caught an episode of Keeping Up Appearances and Are You Being Served (see, I'm not a culture snob really, I just pretend to be) it had a similar effect. People have been asking me what I miss about home, it's turning out to be the arts, in its various forms.

Edale

2005-06-24T08:33:00.000+01:00

Edale, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

For those of you who have met me on my travels, this is the part of the world I come from. Lucky eh?!!

2005-06-24T07:58:00.000+01:00

There are shoes all over San Francisco ! Pairs of perfectly good shoes/trainers scattered about the pavements, no sign of their owners or a struggle that would result in such abandonment. So far I have only seen this phenomenon in the Haight neighborhood (ok - so maybe not all over San Francisco). It's a crazy neighborhood at the best of times but this seems particularly random.

Fun by the river

2005-06-23T19:22:00.000+01:00

Fun by the river, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

This was the ideal spot for small children, and a group of adults with a Peter Pan approach !

Adrian and Bruno

2005-06-23T19:21:00.000+01:00

Adrian and Bruno, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Adrian and his dad Bruno, this is Adrian's 'photo face' !!!

2005-06-23T19:01:00.000+01:00

Last weekend I went camping with Linda (an HC member) and her family; her partner Bruno, 2 year old son Adrian and mother Martha. This was my third attempt to spend a couple of nights under camvas on this trip, third time lucky and all that ! I'm glad that it occured with Linda and her family, they are a very relaxed, fun welcoming family and I had a great time hanging out at Big Basin Redwoods State Park. We set up camp at the Twin Redwoods camp site, a small site close to the river. We went for a short hike, played by the river, eat (lots:). I was staying in Linda's old one person tent which has travelled around the world on her various travels, so canvas with real history! Martha slept outside ! Something I wouldn't want to do at the best of times but there are too many animals roaming around for my liking. A raccoon came to pay us a visit on saturday evening and we had to string food up from a tree in bags so raccoons and bears couldn't get to them, you can't even leave your toothpaste in your bag as they will sniff it out !
I didn't shower for 3 days and lived in the same clothes, it was great to not have to care about that kind of thing, although the shower I took back at Linda's was heavenly!
This was Adrian's first camping trip and he seemed to enjoy it. He is a very bright, lively child and it was lovely to hang out with him, although it did remind me how much I miss Julian ! On saturday we were joined by their friend Eric and his 2 year old daughter Seetlali (I'm not sure on the spelling - sorry), she is the most delightful little girl with the cutest smile, and absolutely no fear at all, she was forever running around the site and couldn't play in the river without sitting in it!
I didn't get the chance to explore downtown Santa Cruz, but from the bit I saw it looks lovely and I would really like to return and see more of it.
I was sad to leave them but we parted with a comment about camping together in Yosemite, a lovely thought, especially as I have every intention of coming back and spending more time in that area anyway.

2005-06-21T14:58:00.000+01:00

I have a couple of announcements:
Happy Birthday John (my Dallas friend), hope you have a fabulous day, I'll buy you a birthday drink in Cape Cod.
Helen, the Las Vegas Lady (!). Happy Birthday chuck, celebrate in style. I hope all the travelling is still going well.
Vanessa and Lucy, all the best in your new home. I'll be thinking of you lugging boxes around in the heat ! I hope you are very happy there and that the spare bed is comfortable !!!!!!

The finished piece, I love it.

2005-06-21T09:09:00.000+01:00

The finished piece, I love it., originally uploaded by LaMinch.

How cool is this huh ? I am SO pleased and am currently looking after it like my foot is made of crystal !

Can you feel the pain ?!

2005-06-21T09:08:00.001+01:00

Can you feel the pain ?!, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Have any of you passed out yet ?

Idexa at work on my foot !

2005-06-21T09:08:00.000+01:00

Idexa at work on my foot !, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Believe it or not, I enjoyed this !

2005-06-21T08:59:00.000+01:00

Thursday 16th June 2005.

After a morning in the Pride office I made my way to Black and Blue Tattoo, home of Idexa, who was to scar me for life !!!! I was worried that the mosquito bites that formed a ring around each ankle would cause a problem. Idexa was worried that I wouldn't like the design as this was outside her usual style of work and nearly cancelled - what a pair !! I loved the design and the bites weren't a problem. Idexa is a wonderful, fun, interesting, talented woman, we chatted throughout much of the 3 and a half hour process, but also instinctively knew when the other needed to focus and couldn't chat for a little while. To say it wasn't painful at moments would be lying, although it is better to describe it as an intense sensation than just 'pain' ( and one I quite like in a bizarre way). Although there was one square centimetre where whenever she ventured in I was about ready to hit the roof. Both of us were kind of sad when the work was complete and we were both on a high. I loved the finished work and Idexa was so pleased with the experience she is considering branching out into a new area of design. I have every intention of returning so she can do more work for me. That night I went to sleep with my bandaged foot in the air, trying to figure out how I was going to look after it on a camping trip just outide Santa Cruz - my following days adventures.....

The darkest dot is Alcatraz!

2005-06-21T08:57:00.000+01:00

The darkest dot is Alcatraz!, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

I took this out of the bus window as I returned from Yosemite and crossed the Bay Bridge over to SF. Despite being taken through the glass of the window I'm quite pleased with it !

2005-06-21T08:56:00.000+01:00

I arrived back in San Francisco on Wednesday evening and made my way to Emily's flat (she was my next Hospitality Club host and both Emily and her flat mate Kate made me feel very welcome under slightly odd circumstances). I arrived after a stressful journey that involved getting on a bus going in the wrong direction (note that the bus was going in the wrong direction, not that I got on the wrong bus!) and finding myself in a neighbourhood that people shoot one another in on a regular basis ! The right bus (or bus going in the right direction), a beer and a meal prepared by Emily and I was ready to give San Francisco a second chance !

See where those trees go up - thats where I had to go, aaaaah!!

2005-06-21T08:49:00.000+01:00

See where those trees go up - thats where I had to go, aaaaah!!, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Yes it was as steep as it looks.
Yes it was as hot as it looks.
Yes it was bloody hard work.

2005-06-21T08:34:00.000+01:00

On tuesday my target was the top of Upper Yosemite Fall, which along with Lower Yosemite Fall is the fifth tallest waterfall in the world at 2,425 ft. I had to make it to the top because I'd told my mother in her birthday card that was what I was doing so I was determined to stick to it !!! I have never had to mentally cajole (I don't think that's spelt right!) myself to such an extent in my life, it was a real test of will power and determination. One of the hardest routes I have ever hiked it was, to date, the biggest physical challenge of my whole trip. An incredibly steep incline up the side of the falls, signs warning of recent sightings of a mountain lion in the area, a trail packed with switch backs, dozens of people crashed at the side of the trail questioning their own sanity, but at the same time lots of people on the way down with encouraging words and promises that the view is worth all the effort. It was. Although it took me a good few minutes of lying on my back and staring at the sky before I was capable of appreciating the view! This is the time when kids are struck off my "I like ....." list. There is nothing more annoying than being exhausted, having legs like jelly and lungs that are trying to burst out of your chest and then having 6 year olds who have just done the same route running around you like they are on speed ".... a little nearer the edge my sweet one, that's it, one step further...". Only kidding !!!! I practically ran back down, worried that I would miss my bus, this of course resulted in me falling - well done KP.A bloody knee, enough grit stuck to my anti mozzi cream (which by the way seems to be appreciated as a four star appetizer by the little bastards) to create a rock garden, filthy pants, all very mature and presentable. I didn't want to leave the park , ever (picture childish tantrum and shaven headed woman stamping her foot and refusing to get on the bus!). Damn it for tattoo appointments !

On my way down the John Muir Trail

2005-06-21T08:33:00.000+01:00

On my way down the John Muir Trail, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

One very happy KP :)

Nevada Fall

2005-06-21T08:32:00.000+01:00

Nevada Fall, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

There were moments when I had to pinch myself, I couldn't believe I was there.

Below Vernall Fall

2005-06-21T08:31:00.000+01:00

Below Vernall Fall, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Get this, two rainbows, one on top of the other !!!!

Lunch time !!!!

2005-06-21T08:30:00.000+01:00

Lunch time !!!!, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

This was my lunchtime view, and that's my sandwich just to prove it ! The squirrels are running off just out of shot!

I can't believe I'm here !!!!

2005-06-21T08:29:00.000+01:00

I can't believe I'm here !!!!, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Yosemite National Park, beautiful. This picture was taken part way up the trail to Upper Yosemite Fall.

The fabulous Women's Centre

2005-06-21T08:28:00.000+01:00

The fabulous Women's Centre, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

I was walking down Valencia and I saw a head appear over the top of a building, I had to go and check it out and this is what I found. It's stunning.

Wow !

2005-06-21T08:27:00.000+01:00

Wow !, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

I didn't know whether to look at it or step onto it !

Check out the detail !

2005-06-21T08:26:00.000+01:00

Check out the detail !, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Earlier I mentioned the amazing murals in the Mission District of San Francisco, well I wasn't kidding. Look at this stuff its incredible.

2005-06-21T04:20:00.000+01:00

After four days in San Francisco the 'traveller' part of my brain kicked in - it started to wonder why I wasn't on a bus to my next destination ! I've moved around so much that it didn't feel right to stay in one place for so long. As a result - I HAD TO GET OUT !!!!!!! My second week in SF was therefore replaced with more time in California's spectacular wilderness. On Sunday 12th I travelled to the Yosemite Bug Hostel and booked myself in for 3 nights.

I thought that Cathedral Rocks, Sedona, was as good as it got, then I went to Yosemite ! Monday I decided to hike up the Misty Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. Waiting for the shuttle bus from the Valley Visitor Centre to the start of the trail was like waiting for a first date that you're pretty confident about !! You're sure it will go well, you have plenty in common, you're attracted to one another, but there is still a part of you that is nervous that it won't go to plan and you'll be disappointed in some way. I know I sound crazy but I was like a 16 year old who couldn't wait to go but was holding back a bit incase the reality dashed the dreams !....... The date went great ! The views were spectacular, the sun shone, literally dozens of rainbows appeared all the way up the falls. I was soaked to the skin at Vernall Falls and the terrain changed regularly as I continued on my way up to Nevada Fall constantly surprising me with more flowers, more challenges underfoot(how people can get to that point and not continue to Nevada Fall I'll never know, actually the 'American waistline' might have something to do with it!). Finally at the top and ready for lunch I had the kind of view to accompany my meal break that would make cardboard taste good. Cheeky squirrels ran, bounced and skittered (I made that word up - I think - but it sounds appropriate !) across the huge flat rocks that people sun bathed on. Two scampered around me and ran off - they looked like cartoon characters and I could imagine them chunnering to one another "huh, nothing worth nicking there, processed cheese, pah, where's the organic stuff...lets try this lot" (we have posh squirrels in Derbyshire!). I reluctantly made my way down , I took the John Muir Trailon the basis that I perfer to work a circular route instead of repeating my footsteps. It was easier and much less interesting, but the views continued to be worthy of dozens of photos.

Yosemite Bug Hostel is clean, fun. the food excellent and not you're usual Hostel fayre (steak/salmon/gooey chocolate cake etc etc). My room mates were chatty and friendly. My only complaint is that some of the staff didn't seem to know their 'arse from their elbow', but the chirpy kitchen staff more than made up for it.

2005-06-11T07:52:00.000+01:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY VANESSA, 30 today (well staurday 11th), as old as me now lady, we can hobble our way around the hills together. Make sure you celebrate in style, that Lucy spoils you rotten, and that you remember very little of it the following day. Have a wonderful day whatever you do, I'm thinking of you sweetie. Xxxx

2005-06-11T07:44:00.000+01:00

I arrived in San Francisco on Monday 6th and the first thing I did (after leaving my ever growing back pack at the Greyhound station and getting some gifts I'd bought for people stolen after foolishly leaving them in the loo) was climb on board one of the famous trolley cars. Yes the streets are that steep and yes you can hang off the sides. Great fun ! I wandered about Fishermans Wharf - dreadfully tacky and a good idea to get it out of the way as soon as possible! You won't see a real SF local down there, its entirely out of towners who don't know any better !

After lunch I made my way to my home for the week. I'm staying in the lovely apartment of Valerie and Ketan, their 6 year old daughter Kaliah and the slighty deranged if incredibly cute cat Shanti. The balcony/decking overlooks much of the city and my sleeping quarters are my idea of heaven (a futon - great for my bad back - I know, I sound about 70 - next to huge 'patio' windows - I much prefer allowing the sun to wake me, its less of a shock to the system). They are the same age as me, great fun, relaxed and very welcoming. Valerie directed me to the finest burritos at Poncho Villa and after lunch I met Idexa the tattooist based at Black and Blue who will be doing my tattoo next week. We have now met twice and although I have not seen a design I have absolute faith in her. She's a very sweet German woman who has a fabulous portfolio of work (I will post photos of the whole messy bloody process as soon as I can - just to warn you !!!)

The area I'm staying in, the Mission district, is a vibrant colourful area. There is a large hispanic population and the stores reflect this. There is also a huge mural project/culture here. The most amazing art work, some done by experienced artists, some by children or community groups, can be found all over the place. I have taken dozens of photos and will blog them as soon as I can. The work just blows me away. Wait until you see pictures of the Womens Centre - WOW.

I have started working on San Francisco Pride. I visited the staff as soon as I arrived and then agreed to do a couple of days work this week. It is a huge event, I mean massive, beyond anything we have in the UK. I am aware that I am in for a huge shock on the 25th and 26th when I see it all take place. I've been given a lot of responsibility, which is fine, I get bored easily and would rather be busy and under pressure, it will also be an incredible experience. I saw the site plans today and we started discussing the whole assembly process, building of the stage, delivery of equipment, who's responsible for what. I figure that I'm going to need a couple of days to recover when its all over. There are no huge stars in attendance, well by my reckoning and knowledge, not being from here (the headliners are En Vogue, I hadn't realised they were still going , BETTY, who did the theme music for the L Word, Third Eye Blind, I've no idea, and Kimberley Locke, an American Idol contestant), some of the non-headliners look pretty cool though. It will be such a fabulous event, I'm incredibly excited and promise to take lots of photos. I have a production meeting all day on saturday which will be pretty intense I'm sure. Its never dull on KP's travels !!!

Maxine, who I met through the Craigslist website ('Blog' isn't allowing me to add links at the mo - bugger - will have to do that later), met me after 'work' on thursday. She took me on a driving tour of the city. What an amazing place, there are so many different neighbourhoods, all full of their own unique personality, non have become ghettoised, they are back to back with one another and it makes for a fascinating place to explore. We drove over the Golden Gate Bridge, through the Golden Gate Park, slowed down as we went past the strip clubs (!!!!!),through Chinatown (the most interesting, intriguing, colourful,densely packed one I have seen, drove down streets so steep that as you went over the crest you couldn't see the road in front of you -like driving off a cliff, made our way through the fog to highest part of the city, got hit by another car ....... no kidding, it kind of bounced off the passenger side , maxine ; "are you ok .... good, its like bumper cars in this city", both cars drove off !!!! She's a wonderful tour guide, a mid westerner originally she is extremely passionate about her new home. She also offered to have me on the back of her motorbike as she takes part in the Pride March as part of Dykes on Bikes (imagine ..... 600 motorbikes, all ridden by women, some topless - heh heh - leading the biggest Pride parade in the world) , sadly I will be hard at work on the main stage at that point, but how amazing would that have been !!!

I met up with Fi (my friend from Scotland - she worked with Gwen and I at the Pod), crepes and beer were involved, I was the only one piggish enough to have dessert, coconut, ice-cream and rum crepe, I wasn't expecting the waitress to set it on fire !!! We happened across some great live music, had some more beers and then headed back to her place. She is interning for a puppet company. The office, rehearsal and living space is in the same building, the sleeping quarters are literally little cells up ladders in the rehearsal space. Its bizarre. It was wonderful to spend time with someone who already knows me, no need to explain where I come from, what I'm doing, to run through my work history (that always seems to occur for some reason), we could talk about people we BOTH knew. Such fun, such a nice change, fab night all round.

2005-06-11T07:27:00.000+01:00

San Diego was a pretty quiet weekend. I explored a battle ship (surprisingly interesting, if you ignore the whole macho thing that tends to go on), its kind of cool to do those things occassionally, I get to feel like a tourist for a while and just be led around instead of having to use my brain ! I went clubbing with an Ellen lookalike! Explored Old San Diego town, wandered the gas lamp district. My visit was completely unplanned and it felt like an odd side step, more about killing time while I avoided spending time in LA on my own than actually taking time to visit and explore the place properly, a bit of a shame really and no reflection on Jon or the city itself. I think my brain was doing weird things now I had reached the west coast, it still is. Part of me has slowed down a bit as I'm in California for a while, the urgency that comes with moving around every 3 or 4 days has gone, as a result I know I have to keep moving (I'm not sure if this is making any sense). Anyway, as a result of this strange situation I am doing a runner from San Francisco for a week instead of staying in town for the full 3 and a half weeks. on sunday I am travelling to Yosemite to stay at the Yosemite Bug hostel (back on Greyhound again (and I thought it was all over, good job I didn't have a ceremonial burning of my pass!), back on wednesday for 2 nights, and in the process getting a new tattoo - very excited about that - then back on the bus to Santa Cruz where I am going camping with Linda (another Hospitality Club member) and her family. I'm really looking forward to that, third time lucky with the camping I hope, although going camping the day after I have had my foot tattooed is probably an excellent example of poor diary scheduling !!!

2005-06-08T23:52:00.000+01:00

Only in San Francisco would you go into a tattoo studio to discuss the design of your latest 'tat', and leave with fresh, home-made bread, that's still warm !!!!!

2005-06-05T23:59:00.000+01:00

If you're wondering (and I'm sure you weren't) how I'm managing to write these blogs after you've read them, its because I've got a bit confused with the clock on this thing, I need to reset it. Technology, pah !!!!

2005-06-05T23:58:00.000+01:00

The next stage of my trip changed. Los Angeles was replaced by San Diego for the weekend. With practically no notice whatsoever a guy called Jon kindly offered to put me up. Talking of changes of plan; I have booked a flight to Cape Cod for a week in July. I am going on 'holiday' with John and David (Dallas), Laurie and Chad (Alabama). Even a control freak like me can be spontaneous, in a planned kind of a way !!!!!!

The Fremont Experience, Las Vegas

2005-06-05T23:52:00.000+01:00

The Fremont Experience, Las Vegas, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

2005-06-05T23:49:00.000+01:00

My final day in Las Vegas was spent around the pool, online at the public library (one guy was watching porn on the interent - I complained - I was told there was nothing that could be done becasue of 'freedom of rights'. My arse, too lazy to take the guy on more like, and what the hell is 'freedom of rights' anyway? I find it difficult to believe that even in Las vegas it's considered acceptable to have porn on in a pubic library where children are wandering around......I can't believe I just said that, Las vegas is a crazy place that bares no resemblance to reality .... I was seething at any rate!). A guy on the street gave me his business card and offered to take me out for the night "all I want is to see you smile and to touch your ass", erm , cheers !!

This is a strange city surrounded on all sides by desert and mountains, it feels as though you are being held captive. It exists for the soul purpose of getting people drunk and extracting cash from them. It's brash and over the top , it's 'low-culture' at its best and it makes no apologies. You have to have an element of respect for the sheer nerve of the place. It's location, design, personality, leave you feeling disconnected from everywhere and everything else. There is no where calm for you to take a breather, no city parks with quiet shady corners, no independent coffee houses where you can read a paper surrounded by 'locals'. The place never rests nor does it allow you to. I'm glad I've been and I'm glad I left.

2005-06-05T23:48:00.000+01:00

That evening Helen, one of my room mates and great, fun, company, and i got chatting. We planned the next stage of her road trip as she was heading for many of the places I had already been and she told me all about San Francisco. She told me how she had got a lift with two British guys to Vegas from San Francisco via a number of National Parks. Those two guys were non other than Phil and Gary, the two people I had spent the day at the Grand Canyon with !!!!!! We finally got to bed at 5.30am. Las vegas has a strange ability to play around with your body clock !

I'm pleased that I have spent the last week in hostels. Being surrounded by people doing similar things to me, exchanging stories, ideas and advice has made me feel, finally, like a 'traveller'. I'm starting to not only understand but to 'feel' what I am doing. Occassionally changing my plans, even if its just a tweak here or there, is exciting. There are so many possibilities and so much yet to come. Exchanging e-mail addresses, talkng about meetin up elsewhere in the US or back at home, recommending hostels, discovering that you've met the same people, it all means that threads from your own trip are being taken up by others, and that our adventures won't end, not even once we arrive back home.

2005-06-05T23:37:00.000+01:00

4th June

I got the bus to the far end of the Strip and walked back, it took me most of the day. The city has a very different feel once the sun is up, but is no less impressive. This time I made my way into some of the hotel lobbies, thousands of slot machines blink away furiously, dancing fountains, immaculately laid out flower gardens, huge shopping malls, indoor rain, white tigers pacing, bored, behind glass. Everywhere you turn alcohol is available - get them drunk and they'll spend more. Couples are led out of wedding chapels by Elvis, couples getting married in their car at the drive thru, huge numbers of people in motorised chairs (many of whom, I'm convinced, are in there simply because they are too big to walk long distances !). huge lakes, the water by its mere presenc having a welcome cooling effect. The heat was in danger of becoming unbearable, it was nice to go inside and cool down regularly. I couldn't find a bookshop anywhere (that speaks volumes - ha ha ha !!), and sadly tickets to see shows were well out of my budget.

2005-06-05T23:25:00.000+01:00

31st May - 3rd June, Las vegas

The drive to Las Vegas was quite impressive, the dry, rocky desert is strangely appealing to me. We drove through mountains and then swooped down into Las Vegas, the bizarre island of a city seemingly stranded in the middle of nowhere.
I arrived in the late afternoon but was unable to make contact with my host. After a couple of hours of sitting at the Greyhound station and trying to call her every 30 minutes or so I gave up and booked into a hostel on Fremont street. Although in a grotty area its clean, the spacious rooms are on 3 floors that surround a swimming pool and hot tub. I ate, made myself at home and once it had gone dark I walked down the strip.

Las Vegas is like Blackpool, put in a jar, steroids and speed added to it and then shaken up. It's a bizarre place, devoid of all reality, it's like Disneyland for adults ! however a part of me can understand the attraction. It really is impressive, each casino/hotal attempts to outdo the other with light shows, performances, music. Outside Treasure Island the spectacular battle between huge pirate ships took place, pyrotechnics drawing huge crowds. The Mirage had impressive waterfalls that eventually 'erupted' as the volcano came alive, spitting out flames. Newly married couples walked down the street, bottles of beer in their hands. Children up way past their bed time, stared wide eyed, or were asleep in their push chairs. People took gondola rides outside the Venetian, rollercoasters screeched over head and the flashing cameras went on and on like never ending lightening. I got back to the hostel hot and sticky (the heat was beyond anything I had experienced at that time of night) and extremely foot sore .............

New York - Las Vegas style

2005-06-05T07:58:00.000+01:00

New York - Las Vegas style, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

The closest I get to NYC on this trip !!

Treasure Island - Las vegas

2005-06-05T06:35:00.000+01:00

Treasure Island - Las vegas, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

This welcomed in my first night in Las Vegas. My Peter Pan side got to come out and play !!!

Bill and Zeek the Mountain Dog

2005-06-05T06:34:00.000+01:00

Bill and Zeek the Mountain Dog, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

2005-06-04T22:30:00.000+01:00

30th May 2005

Today was spent in the company of Bill. He had offered to show me some of the lakes and the new adventurous Kate (!) isn't the type to turn down such offers. He took me for breakfast and then surprised me by suggesting that we take a canoe out on Lake marshall (accompanied by his extremely handsome Golden Retriever - Zeek the Mountain Dog). With magnificent views all around us we did manage to get out on the water, sadly incredibly strong winds swept us onto a small island. We carried the canoe over and set off to the other side of the lake that the wind was blowing us towards ! Another canoe on the lake was capsized by the strong gusts so our caution was justified. It was short but sweet ! We returned the canoe and drove around Lake Mary and Lake Mormon, Bill telling me the history of the area and talkng about his hunting and fishing exploits. We spent some time walking around Lake Perry, a beautiful spot. Zeek went swimming, I took photos and Bill scouted a possible location for duck shooting.
The next 'adventure' was unexpected. For the first time in my life I used a gun !! A small handgun, the Baretta Tomcat is the same gun used by James Bond ! I fired off a couple of rounds at a battered steel drum, Bill is a qualified fire arms instructor so I knew I was in safe hands. I hate to say it but it was kind of fun. I would never hunt and would never allow anyone to kill infront of me, nor do I have any desire to make a habit of this activity, however I'm very glad I had the opportunity to give it a go.

Me in the Canyon, with very orange feet !

2005-06-04T22:23:00.000+01:00

Me in the Canyon, with very orange feet !, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

Believe it or not I was IN the Canyon, its so big it's hard to make any kind of a dent in it !!!!

Cathedral Rocks

2005-06-04T22:22:00.000+01:00

Cathedral Rocks, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

And another .......... the formation on the right is meant to be a mother and her two childern trapped in the rocks, the father is just out of the shot !!!

A view from Cathedral Rocks

2005-06-04T22:21:00.000+01:00

A view from Cathedral Rocks, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

This was the view half way up and behind us.

Cathedral Rocks

2005-06-04T22:20:00.000+01:00

Cathedral Rocks, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

This is what hit me between the eyes when I got out of the van.

View from Cathedral Rocks

2005-06-04T22:10:00.001+01:00

View from Cathedral Rocks, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

This is a segment of what was waiting for me when I reached the top. No photo can capture the spirit of what I saw.

2005-06-04T22:10:00.000+01:00

29th May 2005

I joined a hostel tour to Sedona and had one of the best days of my entire tour. We drove down the beautiful Oak Creek Canyon to the town of Sedona. We stocked up on food for lunch and then trekked to Devils Bridge. It's exactly that - a bridge - formed by erosion and the effects of ice. With extraordinary views and wonderful photographic opportunities I was in my element. We hung out for a little while, walking over the bridge, gasping in awe at the surroundings and being told the story of its formation by our guide, Michael. A warm, funny, chatty guy, Michael is also a wilderness expert. He told us about the various plants, demonstrated how to make rope from a particular cactus. We learnt which plant tequila comes from, handy but we weren't going to try ! We were a group of five visitors, four from the UK, one from Slovakia, we all had a similar sense of humour and the day was spent laughing and saying "wow" a lot !!!
We ate lunch overlooking Sedona and then moved on for the part that was the highlight.

Beautiful red sandstone pillars form Cathedral Rocks. In the scorching heat we climbed and scrambled up the rocky approach trail. It was so enjoyable and there are so many people in my life, back in the UK and here in the States, that I wish could have been there with me. With intermittant breaks in the shade and stops to pour water over our heads, we made our way up. Nothing had prepared me for the view or just how amazing it would feel to be so close to the rocks themselves. We were right at the base of the rocks and myself and a couple of the others took the chance to scramble around and at one point perch on an outcrop (vertigo sufferers - don't even think about it - even I didn't get up off my bottom !!) I didn't want to leave. I sat on the edge with a grin from ear to ear, but knowing that no matter how many pictures I took they would never capture the full beauty of the view or just how amazing I felt up there. I kept snapping though !!! The spot is enough to make me want to return to Northern Arizona and spend a couple of weeks hiking in the area. I reluctantly left the ledge I was perched on, but giggled and chatted all the way back to the van. We drove back to Sedona to end our day with beer and ice cream on a patio that overlooked Snoopy Rock. Fabulous.

I'm still alive !!!!

2005-06-02T22:51:00.000+01:00

I'm still alive !!!!, originally uploaded by LaMinch.

I know, I know, I'm behind on my blogging - sorry, but I'm busy gambling away my inheritance. Only kidding, no gambling and no inheritance that I know of !!!!! Anyhoo, this was taken at Cathedral Rocks, Northern Arizona. When I do blog you'll discover this was one of the highlights of my trip.

2005-05-30T02:35:00.000+01:00

27th May (My brothers birthday - happy belated birthday David - I love ya)

I arrived at Flagstaff after a horrendous bus journey. I was exhausted almost to the point of tears, hungry, full of a cold, hayfever and feeling as sick as a dog. When I checked in at the hostel all I wanted to do was pass out on my bed. During my free breakfast (bless hostels that do that!) I got chatting to Phil and Dave, two British guys who had hire car. An hour later I was in their jeep and heading off to the Grand Canyon !!!!

The GC definately has the wow factor. For miles you see nothing at all and then all of a sudden there is a huge gash in the earth (call me think - many do - but until a couple of weeks ago I thought I would have to look up to see the GC !!!!). It's unreal, my brain couldn't quite take it in, it felt like I could reach out and I would find myself touchin a canvas painting. It is beyond huge, a mile deep, stripes of multi-coloured soils, foliage, glints of water here and there. Phil and I walked down part of the Bright Angel Trail into the canyon, we zig zagged back and forth for a couple of hours, in awe of the depth and just how small it made us feel. The amazing thing was the silence, it was eerie in a place so vast and ruggedly beautiful. We met up with Gary again and drove to various look out points trying to see as much as possible. The sun had started to set by this point and there was a stunning silvery haze over the jagged peaks. As we drove back the exhaustion kicked in again - tired but happy !

The Grand Canyon Internation Hostel is friendly, fun, clean and right in the middle of the town. I'm glad I'm here for four days. It's also close to the bars - which means it can get very very noisy at night, plus this is Memorial Day Weekend so it will go ballistic for the next couple of nights, but that is the only down side to this place, I highly recommend it and many nights its not like that. A train track cuts the town in two just up the road from the hostel, all hours of the day and night you can hear the train and its horn (do you call it horn on a train ?), that noise is actually kind of fun !

Saturday was a chill out day, I've sent postcards, written my journal, been shopping, chatted to the staff (crazy the lot of them, and huge fun - one of them is from Buxton and his brother owns the bike store on the high street in New Mills - for those not in the know, New Mills is my home town and Buxton is up the road !) and other visitors. I met a friendly guuy calle Bill in the post office, he bought me coffee and we chatted for an hour in the attractive Heritage Square, we talked healthcare, spirituality, hiking, hopefully I'm going to join him for a day trip before I leave.

You can tell I am doing my own thing food wise. I've decended to the level of bags of plain bagels ( no filling) for lunch, trail mix, pot noodles (or a version of) for dinner, eating enough free breakfast for two people in order to keep down the food bills ! I'm a true traveller now - I'll be dumpstering next !!!!