Europe Holiday

Good Morning Canada!

2009-06-08T06:18:00.006-04:00

I am back on familiar ground seeing it through new eyes.

Celebrating Chantal's and MJ's wedding with my whole family was priceless!

Hope you enjoyed coming along for the ride. Everyone should embark on new experiences no matter how big or how small to enrich your day.

Peace out!

An Evening in London

2009-06-03T19:03:00.007-04:00

Wow! Tonight I sat in the hostel with three young woman whose view of life only inspires me to keep seeking new adventures. Katherine, Casey and Amanda all in their 20's shared with me their views and experiences.

Look up the lyrics and watch the video to the song Where Suncreen by Baz Luhrmann.

I am looking forward to celebrating my neice's wedding in Toronto this coming Saturday. Chantal and MJ, like so many beautiful couples I know enbrace love and life.

My family has taught me so much. My friends have been incredible guides. The world is an amazing place and it is wonderful to always seek out new people and places.

Live, Love, Laugh, Sing and Dance!

Madrid lives in my heart

2009-06-03T05:44:00.020-04:00

Though, it was not on my origninal itinerary. Madrid was captivating! With Kate's well wishes, I left the hostel knowing I was going to miss her and the warmth that this city gave me.

Took the Metro to the airport. It is a huge place like most airports. Boarded the plane to Paris. Looking forward to seeing how my french would be welcomed in Paris.

I landed in the Beauvais airport and hopped the shuttle to near Arc de Triomphe. I didn't have my hostel book yet, because I was planning on taking the train to Rouen. On the flight, I met a group from Rouen who said they were sorry they couldn't offer me a ride as their car was full.

Monday, was a holiday in Paris so the train schedule was shorter than normal. I had only one hour to get to La Gare Saint Lazare. I didn't make it on time.

With help from Isabelle at this very nice restaurant whose name slips my mind at the moment (but I have their business card), I booked a room.

So, I spend the night at Hotel Ouest. In the morning, I went out to check the trains and realized it was to involved in going to Rouen and making it back to Paris. Time was/is running out on this adventure.

Indulged in some tea and a croissant. Paris' wifi internet service sucks around the city. So, it was off to the Louvre for a few hours. Jean-Claude guided me to a nice spot to have a drink and to people watch near Hotel de Ville.

Sat down at a table with a beer (should have had wine!). Asked the people beside me if they spoke Anglais but they didn't understand me. Liza and Barry are from California and where happy to converse with me. Both are writers. We had a very nice time.

Then it was then back to the Hotel to pick-up my bag and catch the RER to Charles de Gaulle Airport. The Paris subway was a little trick to navigate but I gave myself plenty of time.

I had a little more hassle with my temporary passport getting through the check-in. Standing in line I met Dave, an English man who lives in Germany. He works for the European Space Agency. Very cool. Also, I met Jason from London who was returning home to surprise his girlfriend after spending six months in Korea teaching english.

With Jason's help and very late last night. I made it to central London but the tubes had closed so it was an all night bus or a taxi to the hostel. The taxi driver gave me a deal and took me to the door.

Palmers Lodge is huge, has loads of character and characters. The Internet works here fantastically. The view is great.

I am off to take in a few sites and making the best of my full day here. One more night, then it's home to Canada.

See you all soon!

The Past 6 Days.

2009-05-29T16:51:00.013-04:00

Never loose faith. That is my motto.

Last Sunday, I got settled at Hostel One where Raffa offered the highest of quality of service. He was always busy entertaining all the guests. He offered great suggestions of where to go to see Gaudi. I stayed in a great room with abalcony. I seem to meet Irishmen everywhere I go. Ronin at that hostel was a traveler in Spain and played football.

Monday was my day trip to the consulate to discover my journey was taking me, here, to Madrid. The train ride was great but it gave me too much time to reflect. In doing so, I wanted to kick myself in the butt for being so silly. Thank God, that the consulate was extremely helpful with all that needed to be done. Thank God for Josee, Mom and Anne-Marie, too (my earth angels)!

At the Way Hostel, I met Kate, James, Matt, Robert and Ehmar. People from all different directions finding ourselves gathered in this place.

Wednesday night we went to the Prado Museum. One visit wasn't enough. Thursday Kate and I toured the city streets taking in the Madrid vibe. Thursday night, Matt, Robert, Kate and I when to a Jazz club and listened to great funky music. Then hit a disco. Yes, we all dances. Funny, fun crowd.

Already Friday night. Going to grad a bite then just relax at the Hostel Vetusta. This way, Saturday we are getting up early to take in many more interesting, beautiful and historic sites.

So, never loose faith and enjoy each moment that unfolds in the day!

Salute!

Madrid

2009-05-27T19:01:00.005-04:00

An unexpected adventure. So, things are sorted and my journey continues.

The ride to Madrid was quite scenic. You will find among the pictures a building with the Canadian flag; the common room in the hostel and Hockey night in Canada is on the television (though, you can't see the players, that picture was for you, Scott and Jen! ;)

Today, I am sharing a room with Kate, a dude from Dublin and two others soul from England, I think.

Kate and I where invited to visit the Prada museum with Elmar. He is German and on holidays for one week. Great souls, great evening!

Peace 'man,

Louise

New Horizons

2009-05-25T14:29:00.008-04:00

Hello dear family, friends and onlookers!

Wow, despite the craziness here, the stay in Barcelona has been amazing! I am dreaming in espanol, catalana and french! So, here is how I have spent my time here:

I arrived on Wednesday and just needed to chill out. Somnio was a fanatistic place to rest my head in the downtown of Barcelona, I think. It is by a main road called Rambla de la Cantalunya. Great place to hang around. Thursday, I walked to the beach and discovered the market and got some great fresh fruit for only 1 Euro. Cerveza are cheap; Sangria; Tapas and other authentic food and drink have crossed my palate.

Friday night was just partying, even took-in a club, pour uno momento. Saturday, finally decided to do some blogging.....(I should learn how swear but I haven't yet) and we all know, this silly thing happened that day. I just realized today my voice recorder is gone, too with cool things still not downloaded. Merde!

Anyway, I got see to the greatest thing that I wanted to experience while here: checking out Gaudi's architecture.

This Nokia phone takes pretty good shots, as well.

I'm on my way to Madrid, where I will get my new passport. From there, hang tight! Only great things await, for sure (enjoy the photos)!

Bonna Nit

2009-05-23T18:05:00.004-04:00

Sweet dreams! (the view from here)

Hola! Hola!

2009-05-23T17:04:00.011-04:00

Dear feekn me,

So, I bought a rose today, to remind me of the beauty in the world!

I hope they take VISA here, because I have still some important purchases to make with my cash.

After 3 days in Barcelonia listening to all the Catalan speaking people, it is finally starting to feel normal. I have gotten along better in french here.

Leo, at the hostel was a great source of information and I consider him a friend, instantly.

Many fine, handsome Barcelonian's have called Me beautiful and wanted to entertainment ME (in their very special ways! lol). I have mentioned to each one, that "amor meu" resides in Canada, but they do not realize that I haven't met him yet. Ha, ha!

So, the difference between here and Ireland: hot showers, sunshine; in Ireland, you get individual hot and a cold water taps. In spain, like in Canada, it's one faucet.

All around, both cutlures have the same generosity; especially meeting one on one. It is a little trickier for me, here, but, I am enjoying the challenge. And, in case you have forgotten, if it is happening at this moment then it is supposed to be.

I am still SMILING!

thanks,
me

Beautiful Barcelona

2009-05-23T12:04:00.006-04:00

It was a good day, it was a bad day! My laptop bag got stolen while sitting in a restaurant online doing a few things wanting to update blog. The good news: I have my laptop and my wallet. The bad news the theives got ....my canadian phone, my passport and a lot of other shit!

Just spent two hours at Direccio General de la Policia getting a souvenir, I could have done without, my police report. Oh well!

Really, up until now, all was well. The city is exciting (to say the least). The weather is perfect. The beach is Spectaculo!

I have some pics but they are not organized yet.

Wish You were here!:

2009-05-19T05:46:00.018-04:00

It was very gracious of Natalia to play for me her handmade instrument in her workshop. Do check out the video. Let me know, if you have any questions (go ahead, ask, about anything; life, love, music, the weather?). If the images and video don't appear below, go here.

Time

2009-05-16T22:30:00.013-04:00

Why is there only 24 hours in a day? Why do we only ever have this moment? It is a paradox (I looked it up, for real). Ah, I sigh!

Ok, so I'm going to do a little recapping of some of my journey: landed in Dublin; drove to Dungarvan; was hosted by friends; spend a few days in Cappoquin (saw a few old friends but Kerry was the only one to share a smile); made new friends; drove to Galway; got lost in Tipperary; In Galway, I am having an unbelievable time listening to old music and sharing stories with interesting souls from Agentina, Poland, Czech, USA, UK, Australia and don't forget the amazing Galway folk. Wow!

It's 3am. Tomorrow is my last day here and I have my ticket to Barcelona.

These pictures have no rhyme or reason, I just wanted to add a few new ones here (if no slideshow appears below, you can go to directly to the album):

Working in Galway

2009-05-14T06:15:00.006-04:00

Hello, my Canadian folks! Looks like I got a job!! What? No, it doesn't pay but man, it will be fun!

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, May 15th to 17th. I am volunteering for the Galway Early Music Festival. The theme of the festival is Islands and the Waters Between, Mermaids, Sirens, Sailors and Romance. The festival's End Celebration is a boat cruise to Inchagoill Island. Check out their website, www.galwayearlymusic.com

Tonight, I meet MauraO at a local pub, of course with rest of the volunteers to get the low-down. How cool is that?!

It's really old rock and roll! Ha, ha! Actually, it's music from the 12th to 17th century. It features music from Cyprus, Guernsey (I have no clue, yet, where that is/was), Ireland and the Continent, says their brochure.

Later today, I will be adding pictures from my last few days with Michael, Jenny and Aidan. Also, I have great pictures of the fabulous scenery on the ride to Galway.

Right now, I'm starving. So, I'm out to tour the city and grab a bite.

Good Morning Beautiful World!

2009-05-12T06:55:00.011-04:00

It is Tuesday. I am doing my laundry at Michael's and Jenny's. I know the next path I am taking. It's to Galway!

To each one of you who have left me your comments on this site, sent me emails; to Garrett and Jancy , me 'mates in Ottawa and too all the souls who live everyday in my heart, Thank you for sharing; for thinking about me; for watching this experience that I leap into blindly but with great faith. Thank you!

So, stay tuned. I think you will enjoy what happens next.

Michael, Jenny and Aidan have been so wonderful to me, sharing their home and generosity. We will be taking more photos today. They will be posted within a day or two.

The World looks brighter from behind a SMILE.

Life! from our Mother comes our first breathe. Bless all Mothers!

2009-05-10T05:00:00.018-04:00

Mother's Day Poems

Ode to Mothers
by Kristin F. McKendall

Mothers cannot do it all
But surely do they try.

Mothers hear the angel's call,
To comfort all who cry.

Mothers for themselves may fall,
For others they will fly.

Mother's bear the weight of all,
For their children, they would die.

A Mother's gift extends beyond
All bounds of time and space.

Her lovingness and nurturing
Make Earth a peaceful place.

Hi Mom,

This is a special message to you that the world can see and read.
You mean the world to me and you live the closest to me in my heart.
What your mom taught you, you have shared with me: the gift of knowledge; the wisdom of time; the strength of understanding, compassion and forgiveness.
I am the lucky one, like all children, I look up to and admire YOU, mom!

Love, your daughter Louise

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL THE WONDERFUL MOTHERS I KNOW!!

The Scene

2009-05-09T06:28:00.005-04:00

These pictures are not organized and I will ad captions later.
Enjoy the raw and real view for now.

Friday May 8th, 2009

2009-05-08T07:27:00.021-04:00

It's hard to believe a week has gone by already. It is great to start this journey on familiar ground.

Michael, Jenny and Aidan are great hosts. Jenny is a little camera shy. Michael is just very choosy about how the picture turns out. Aidan is the little Superstar!!

I love flying because when you are above the clouds it's like being awake in a dream. Here is how my journey began:

I was lucky to have a 5 hour delay between arriving in London and flying to Dublin. I thought I packed lightly however, I still had too much stuff for the short jaunt to Dublin. With some great advice from Saed at the Gatwick airport, I was able to get on the Dublin flight without any extra cost. I did have to get rid of a few things and I forgot about the 100ml liquid rule. So, the new bottle of Bio Oil was tossed at the check in. ShYTE, as they say in Ireland!

In Dublin, as was down in the Temple Bar area. I had been there before. So, it was easy enough to get around. I stayed at the Abigail Hostel. The price was right and that is where you meet interesting traveler's, too.

The next day, I picked up the Matiz, a little standard car. Just my luck it was blue. I didn't even have to ask for the car to be blue. Of course, I got directions on how to get to Dungarvan. I left the car hire parking lot nervously and I immediately got lost. Ha, Ha! But, that was not a surprise, nor did I get freaked out. I just tried to get use to the gear shifting; going round and round on the round abouts; staying on the correct side of the road (the left?, the right?); and, finally trying not to hit anyone from behind when taking off.

Before you know it, I accidentally found my way to the N11 highway. I made it to Dungarvan in a few hours. Michael, Jenny and Aidan greeted me down by the tourist office near the shore.

The rest of the week has been spend exploring the Dungarvan, a trip to Youghal, Mount Mellary, The Vee and Cappoquin.

On Monday Micheal and I will be going to Waterford City. On Tuesday, I hop in the car and head to undiscovered lands.

I have listened to great Irish music and song. As yet, I have not had the chance to play with new friends. Not to worry, I practice all the time with Justin Sandercoe (justinguitar.com). He is one of my guitar heroes (along with Scott, Vince, Denis, mon oncle Fred, Brent, Gman, Justin M., Jacob...and many more)

Live, Love, Laugh, Sing & Dance!!

I have many more pictures of the great scenery, new friends and beautiful horizons. I will share them with you soon. I just need to figure out how to setup a slideshow. Peace out, dudes and dudettes.

Please note that what is below is from my previous journey back in 2004, Slainte!

I'm Back!

2004-11-12T17:32:00.000-05:00

A special 'Allo' to Justin.

Sorry I missed your birthday. Nov 10th right!.
Bonne Fete!!!

Can't wait to jam! I hear you are really starting to rock. Let's get together play guitar and cards with your mom and Dan. See you soon!

London Bridge

Hi,

Sitting here with Chantal and Kasey riding in the car back to Mississauga. I have a few funny (or scary) blog stories.

I arrived in plenty of time to jump on the plane at Gatwick. Did you know they serve drinks at 8 am in the morning? I needed one badly because I lost my glasses. Anyone remember last years glasses story? Ask me and I will tell you all about it. So, anyway, sitting having a drink 'cause I'm so angry with myself. One last chat with MissViss while sitting there. Phone credits ran out and I am heading for gate 20, as I get to gate # 10. My name gets called over the loud speaker. "Louise V....last call to board". I start running and running, yelling, "Excuse me, they're calling my name". Run, Run Run. Wave at the flight attendances who spot a frantic woman. They knew it was me. They wave at the pilot, open the door and thank God, I'm on the plane. Whew!!!!!!!!

Sat next to Sharon and Dilap, in the middle between the two. Two great people. Sharon was returning from a visit to England to her family here, and Dilap (sounds like Philip) lives in Brampton returning from a work adventure. We laughed and shared stories of our journey.

Great to be back! Let's Party!

Weather in Toronto: gorgeous sun, 4 degrees

2004-11-12T17:31:00.000-05:00

Air buds, Sharon and Dilap. Hoping the middle seat would be empty

2004-11-12T17:29:00.000-05:00

get going Loulou!! AM drink

2004-11-12T17:28:00.000-05:00

Grl ride home. Kasey and Chantal. Thanks man!

Rememberance Day

2004-11-11T05:43:00.000-05:00

We live on a planet with billions of souls, all unique.
Let's live together in peace!

My last day!

Good Morning Canada!

I have my day planned. I will be doing the bus tour thing. I can hop on and off all day. Tea with the queen; Big Ben; Trafalgar square, Piccadilly circus and more.

My last blog update will be tonight. But keep checking after that until I get home, there is still one surprise for all of you (I hope).

Happy Birthday Kelly B.!! Did Melissa make you a cake?

MLT (moi l'aime toi)

Eire: great place & great people

2004-11-10T14:11:00.000-05:00

Eire bear's tag rings very true to my heart. Bye bye Ireland!

Beautiful souls on upper Shanbally

2004-11-10T13:45:00.000-05:00

Leaving Cappoquin Wednesday morning.
Sherry drove me back to Cork 'cause it was a really late night, last night.

Hoping on the plane. I was the last one on.

London Calling!

2004-11-10T13:40:00.000-05:00

Sitting in the Reload internet cafe wirelessly connected with my Toshiba. A little tired from the wicked car, plane and train rides. I made it!!!!

Paddington Station (the tube) - terrible pic of me. Many more groovy ones to follow.

Returned the blue's mobile ( it was a Toyota Yarris ). That was fun. I had no problems driving, manual transmission and all. Thanks Kristin you were an excellent driving instructor. Rogers has not been on my mind, except for you, Kristin (and the rest of the team), Carolyn and Jennifer.

Sat down and rang my mom at lunch today. At the restaurant I inquired from the waitresses where to stay tonight. Found a great hotel strip near Hyde Park. The hotel attendant helped me find this cafe and I here I am. Still feeling grand!!

It's 7 pm here now. I'm going to grab a bit and a beer; maybe chat with some brits. Talk to you soon.

My Eire bear. A present from MissViss.

Weather today: same as yesterday

Last night in Cappoquin

2004-11-09T16:05:00.000-05:00

I can't beleive it time to fly again!

I'm sitting here in Kerry's and Seamus home with Luke finally getting a chance to blog.....

"hallo canada lou lou fixed the internet. slan'(goodbye in irish)" said Luke, Kerry's oldest boy. Liam and Kiera are her two other beautiful lads.

Everything is grand!

Friday got back from Killarney. That night we just took it easy playing guitar. Saturday night was a blast, out in Cappoquin. On Sunday, we were all in slow mode until late in the day.

Yesterday, took the girls to school in the car. Sherry and I went to Youghal to walk down by the ocean. Today, we went for a long walk in the Comeragh mountains in the morning then headed up to Mount Mellary Abbey (were I got aunt Mae's beads last year). Said a little prayer for everyone.

This evening James made a fabulous bbq and is now minding the girls while Sherry, Kerry, Vanessa and I have a few pints and laughs, one more time.

Sherry is sitting here prooofing it for me, Josee.

In the morning Sherry and I are going to Cork where I'll catch the flight back to London. Two more sleeps (don't plan on sleeping tonight) then the plane ride home. I have 187 pictures and video clips to share. When I am in London tomorrow I will put together some for you.

All the remarks are keeping me smiling! thanks people.

Weather: today we had everything; gorgeous sun in the morning; saw a rainbow; windy