1 year ago today I had surgery for an ectopic pregnancy. The surgery saved my life and my fertility, but I lost the pregnancy and my left fallopian tube. I blogged about it here
A year later, and all of the worries and questions about my fertility have been answered, as I'm now 8 months pregnant! I also blogged about that, here However, just because I've been lucky enough to get pregnant again relatively quickly after my ectopic. doesn't mean that it's forgotten or that it doesn't continue to affect me. I think anyone who's had something like this happen to them carries it with them forever - it's part of who I am now, and shapes the way I look at life. That's not a negative thing, it just is what it is.
The main thing that I think the ectopic has done to me is made me more aware that bad things can and do happen, and that they can and do happen to me. An ectopic is no longer something that happens to other people, so I'm super aware that other bad things might not just happen to other people either. Being pregnant doesn't hold the naive excitement it may have otherwise done - I know that things can go wrong - my body has let me down once before so I don't blindly trust that it won't let me down again. I pride myself on my positivity, but I'm also cautious in a way I may not otherwise have been.
A year is a long time, but it can pass by in the blink of an eye. I don't like to think of what might have been... the pregnancy was never meant to be, so there's no point thinking how old the baby would be now, what I might be doing. I do remember, but I don't dwell. I ended my first ectopic blog post by saying that "this happened, but I am ok. I will remain ok, and better." One year on, I really am better than ok. That little light of mine shone brightly, and I am nearly at the end of the tunnel it lights, where a rainbow awaits.
Saturday, 12 November 2016
Friday, 1 July 2016
THIS little light of mine... an update
Nearly 8 months ago, I posted about my ectopic pregnancy and how I was trying to remain positive after my operation to remove "our Pip" and my fallopian tube.
We'd been told that I would still be able to conceive with my remaining tube, but that it may take a little longer - my fertility had reduced by around 30% as a result of the operation. We were also told that once a woman has had 1 ectopic pregnancy, the odds of her having another greatly increase - from one in eighty, to one in ten. Scary odds, but what would Linford do? PMA, that's what.
I won't bore you with the ins and outs of trying to get pregnant (pun intended...) but let me just tell you that the saying "relax and it will happen" is just irritating bullshit when you're trying to conceive, especially after a loss.
Long story short, we didn't relax - but we tracked, we timed and we tried, and it worked! On 8th April, I had a positive result on a pregnancy test. This line was much darker than any of the lines I'd got with Pip, so we dared to hope this one had made it all the way to my uterus...
Anyone who's been through an ectopic has to have an early scan at 6 weeks along, to check that the new pregnancy has made it into the right place. Ours was booked in for 2 weeks later, and so the wait began. That fortnight was a weird one. Pleased that we've mounted hurdle one and got pregnant again, but scared that Piptwo is just as lazy as their predecessor and has decided to stick around in my one remaining tube. Which would be pretty shit. Meaning more surgery, another failed pregnancy and drastically reduced fertility. So, yeah - it was a long two weeks waiting for the dildo cam moment.
Going for that first scan appointment was a very deja vu morning. We sat in the same waiting room as we had 5 months earlier, filling out the same forms and listening to the same radio station. We walked into the same room to get scanned so it was quite a relief to have a different sonographer doing the honours! She was brilliant - no messing around and just got straight on with it as she knew we didn't want to wait around making small talk. Right away she said "there it is! In the uterus!" which was such a relief. Second hurdle jumped! After a nervy few minutes while she poked around looking for a twin pregnancy (either in the right place or the wrong) she confirmed there was just one embryo, where it should be, and printed off a photo of a blurry tadpole for us to proudly show off to family.
So here we are now, 10 weeks and 2 more scans later and daring to hope this one might be the keeper. Piptwo is making themselves known - giving me a pot belly that makes me look like I've been hitting the mars bars hard (clue: I have) and an unquenchable thirst for milk. I'm 16 weeks today, and due on 16th December. This is our official "coming out" post - I'm pregnant!
I want to end by telling anyone else who's gone through a #misCOURAGE to keep hoping, keep shining. We'll get there, if we believe. PMA.
We'd been told that I would still be able to conceive with my remaining tube, but that it may take a little longer - my fertility had reduced by around 30% as a result of the operation. We were also told that once a woman has had 1 ectopic pregnancy, the odds of her having another greatly increase - from one in eighty, to one in ten. Scary odds, but what would Linford do? PMA, that's what.
I won't bore you with the ins and outs of trying to get pregnant (pun intended...) but let me just tell you that the saying "relax and it will happen" is just irritating bullshit when you're trying to conceive, especially after a loss.
Long story short, we didn't relax - but we tracked, we timed and we tried, and it worked! On 8th April, I had a positive result on a pregnancy test. This line was much darker than any of the lines I'd got with Pip, so we dared to hope this one had made it all the way to my uterus...
Anyone who's been through an ectopic has to have an early scan at 6 weeks along, to check that the new pregnancy has made it into the right place. Ours was booked in for 2 weeks later, and so the wait began. That fortnight was a weird one. Pleased that we've mounted hurdle one and got pregnant again, but scared that Piptwo is just as lazy as their predecessor and has decided to stick around in my one remaining tube. Which would be pretty shit. Meaning more surgery, another failed pregnancy and drastically reduced fertility. So, yeah - it was a long two weeks waiting for the dildo cam moment.
Going for that first scan appointment was a very deja vu morning. We sat in the same waiting room as we had 5 months earlier, filling out the same forms and listening to the same radio station. We walked into the same room to get scanned so it was quite a relief to have a different sonographer doing the honours! She was brilliant - no messing around and just got straight on with it as she knew we didn't want to wait around making small talk. Right away she said "there it is! In the uterus!" which was such a relief. Second hurdle jumped! After a nervy few minutes while she poked around looking for a twin pregnancy (either in the right place or the wrong) she confirmed there was just one embryo, where it should be, and printed off a photo of a blurry tadpole for us to proudly show off to family.
So here we are now, 10 weeks and 2 more scans later and daring to hope this one might be the keeper. Piptwo is making themselves known - giving me a pot belly that makes me look like I've been hitting the mars bars hard (clue: I have) and an unquenchable thirst for milk. I'm 16 weeks today, and due on 16th December. This is our official "coming out" post - I'm pregnant!
I want to end by telling anyone else who's gone through a #misCOURAGE to keep hoping, keep shining. We'll get there, if we believe. PMA.
Monday, 16 November 2015
This little light of mine...
I've never been one to keep secrets, or hide things from
my friends. I've always said that I am an open book – ask me and I will tell
you. I'm also a firm believer in holding your head up high through whatever
life throws at you, and finding the positives in even the most negative of
experiences, whenever you can. I am a staunch believer in being loud and proud
about what you believe in, so this is my #misCOURAGE story, for those of you
who would like to know, but don’t feel you can ask.
On Monday 26th October 2015 my boyfriend and I found out
I was pregnant. We’d been trying to conceive so it wasn't a shock, but the test
line was so faint it took another four days of tests culminating in a digital
one that read “pregnant” for us to really believe it. On Monday 2nd November I woke up to
a small amount of blood when I went to the toilet. Panicking, I rushed to the doctor
who examined me and confirmed I was still pregnant, but booked me in for a scan
to check things were progressing as they should. Bleeding can be normal, but it
can be bad news too. The scan was booked for the following Wednesday, because
scanning before then would be pointless – nothing can be seen before the sixth
week of pregnancy so we must wait until we’re past that mark.
After the longest ever 9 days (throughout which I was
still “spotting” with brown blood, but no pain) we arrived at hospital for our
early scan. Nothing could be found in my uterus but my urine tests were still
coming back positive for a pregnancy and “something” could be seen in my fallopian
tube, near to my left ovary. Blood tests were taken, and then we waited. And
waited. 6 hours later it was confirmed the hormone levels in my blood were so
high I must be pregnant, but the lack of anything in my uterus meant the
pregnancy must be ectopic – growing in my tube, and “not viable” for survival.
Because of how far along I was, the only option was keyhole surgery to remove
the pregnancy (or “Pip” as Dan and I were calling it by then). This surgery
would likely mean my fallopian tube would be removed too, and there was also a
risk my left ovary would have to be taken because of how close it was to where
the pregnancy had implanted. I wasn't in any pain so because the placement of
the pregnancy meant my operation was somewhat riskier than a “normal” ectopic
removal, I was admitted to hospital overnight, to wait for the operation the
next day.
On Thursday 12th November when I was 6 weeks
and 6 days pregnant I had my operation. They removed the pregnancy and my left fallopian
tube, but it went well and my ovary was saved. I came home on Friday, after receiving
excellent care from the surgeons, doctors, nurses and staff at the NHS hospital
who looked after me.
Today is Monday, and I am 4 days post op. I'm healing
well, my bleeding is lessening and I am moving around with more ease despite a
sore tummy. The future is a positive one as there is every chance my 2 ovaries
and 1 tube will do a job and I can successfully fall pregnant (in the right
place!) in the future. Because I am a positive person, I am feeling ok. I'm of
course very sad that our little Pip wasn't meant to be, but I refuse to wallow
and am looking to the future. I know that many, many women are not as lucky as
I was, or as well-equipped emotionally to cope with the fallout. I've had such
an outpouring of love and support from my friends and family that I feel strong
and confident to move forwards with whatever is next for me and my body.
One in four pregnancies end in miscarriage. One in eighty
pregnancies is ectopic. I may now be an official statistic, but I am also a
person and that makes my story unique, however common it actually is. People
deal with things like this very differently, and there is no wrong or right way
to do that – just whatever way is right for you. The right way for me is to be
loud and proud about it, then put it behind me. This happened, but I am ok. I
will remain ok, and better.
In the words of the song I sang to my Pip in those 9 days
waiting for our scan, “this little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine…” I'm
looking forward to a shining future.
To find out more about ectopic pregnancy, check out The
Ectopic Pregnancy Trust: http://www.ectopic.org.uk/
Friday, 3 April 2015
Viva Las Vegas... and beyond!
What’s the first thing you think when someone says “Las
Vegas” to you? Chances are you’re imagining bright lights, buzzing casinos,
pool parties and wild nights… well, all of that is true, as well as so much
more. I've recently come back from a 5 night “break” to Vegas and the Grand
Canyon, and the trip more than lived up to my expectations – it smashed them!
I was in Las Vegas as part of a group of 8 girls, for my
friend’s birthday. We were determined to make the most of our time away, and we
certainly did that! I'm sure you've heard the saying “what goes in Vegas, stays
in Vegas” but I thought I’d break that rule and write about my (edited!) highlights,
for anyone that’s planning on heading out there...
The Buffets
Ahhhh, the buffets. As much a part of Las Vegas as The
Strip, you must eat at a buffet when you visit. Available for breakfast, lunch
or dinner at pretty much all of the main hotels, the buffets are the epitome of
American excess – and they are awesome! Name practically any food you can think
of, and the buffets will have it available for you, with no limit to how many
times you can go up – so make sure you’re wearing an elasticised waistband when
you visit! You can also opt to upgrade to a champagne buffet (which is also no
limits) to make the most of the experience – we did of course, and it was
certainly worth it!
I chose to visit the breakfast buffet at the Wynn hotel,
because the hotel is stunningly beautiful and the buffet famously good. I can’t
say I’ve ever had Chinese food or roast beef and gravy for breakfast before,
but I did that day… along with eggs, bacon, pancakes, pastries and more, plus
more yummy champagne mimosa cocktails than I care to admit!
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| Flower sculptures in the Wynn lobby... almost as stunning as the buffet! |
The Shows
Vegas is all
about the shows. If you had the time (and the money!) you could see a different
show every night for weeks on end – Circque du Soleil one night, maybe a
Michael Jackson tribute show, Elton John or Ricky Martin, the magicians Criss
Angel or or Penn and Teller - and so many more I can’t list them all. We opted
for the girls’ night out legend that is Ms. Britney Spears, and her show at
Planet Hollywood. We decided to embrace the occasion and dressed up as
different Britney looks through the years, which was hilarious and attracted a
lot of happy comments from our fellow revellers! The show was as fabulous as we
expected – amazing dancing, impressive stage sets, loads of glitz and glamour and
the fabulous Ms. Spears back to her pop queen best!
The Strip
Make sure you explore The Strip when you’re in Vegas. Walking
up and down the main street is like stepping into a film set, and you can
stroll into any of the main hotels to check out the over the top decorations
and do some people watching – or gambling if you’re feeling lucky – in the
casinos! There’s the Egyptian inspired Luxor, decadent Bellagio with the famous
water fountain show (don’t miss that!), themed New York, New York (which even
has a roller coaster in the casino!) The Venetian and Paris, and my personal
fave Excalibur with it’s fabulous turrets and knights of the realm décor! There’s
also the famous Vegas sign to visit and wedding chapels to nose at, plus the
High Roller wheel (like the London Eye but bigger, and with a bar!) and the Big
Shot ride at The Stratosphere – one of the tallest thrill rides in the world. I
did both, and thoroughly enjoyed High Roller… Big Shot, not so much –
aaaaaarrghhh!!
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| Faces of FEAR on the Big Shot! |
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| Views from the High Roller, with a bevvy - what's not to like? |
The Pool Parties
Pool parties are a Vegas staple, and worth experiencing
even if you’re a pale skinned sun avoider like me! We got on the guest list for
the party at Encore hotel and joined in the champagne spraying, booty shaking
craziness with gusto, and partied to DJ Jermaine Dupri with the best of them (different
special guest famous faces play throughout the season). Not my usual scene, but
I had a blast and would recommend everyone tries a pool party for the true
Vegas lifestyle experience!
As fabulous as Las Vegas is, I also really wanted to make
the most of my trip and get out of the city a couple of times, to experience
more of what Nevada state has to offer.
My group did 3 day trips between us, and I joined in for two of them…
The Grand Canyon
This one needs no introduction. We picked the option of a
helicopter trip and despite the obscenely early start it was worth every penny.
Our pilot flew us over the Hoover Dam en route to the Canyon, where we landed
to enjoy a champagne breakfast before getting back in the chopper to fly over
more of the Canyon and take in the breathtaking scenery. It was everything I’d
hoped it would be and it’s easy to understand why it’s one of the Natural
Wonders of The World. We flew back to Vegas via The Strip, and the contrast of
the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon to the modern bright lights and big city
of Vegas really brought home just how stunning the scenery we’d experienced
was.
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| My Happy Face. |
Area 51 and Rachel
You’ve probably heard of Area 51, the top secret
government facility deep in the Nevada desert. Depending on who you ask, there
is either nothing at all going on there (according to the US government) or a
full on conspiracy and alien landing site. Our day trip here included a drive
down the extraterrestrial highway, plus stops at a beautiful, eerie dry lake
bed, and most excitingly of all (for me, anyway – bucket list alert!) the town
of Rachel, the closest town to Area 51 and home of the Little A’le’Inn
restaurant and bar. Ever since I found out there was a town named after me (ok,
that bit’s an exaggeration…!) I’ve wanted to go, so I was very overexcited when
we arrived in the small, dusty town that bears my name. It was fabulous! We
were welcomed with open arms by the friendly residents, and enjoyed our Alien
Burger and Alien Beer at the Inn.
Final stop was the Area 51 cordon – step past
this and “use of deadly force is authorised” to stop you, so we stayed behind
the line and waved at the security guards parked at the top of the hill who’d
zoomed over in their jeeps the moment we arrived. They didn’t wave back… just
watched us, riffles in hand, as we took photos at the famous signs and wondered
what all the government secrecy was for, if nothing is really going on there…
Horse Riding at
Red Rock Canyon
4 of my friends saddled up for a cowgirl experience and
enjoyed a horse riding trip to Red Rock Canyon, about 30 minutes out of Las
Vegas. As well as a trek through the rugged, cactus strewn desert the girls had
a fab time learning to lasso and eating barbequed steak with their guides, who
told them all about the native American history of the area.
I can’t put into words how much of an amazing time I had
on this trip. Las Vegas and the surrounding areas is an amazing destination,
and covers all bases as far as I’m concerned – stunning scenery, famous sights,
great food, and amazing parties. I may need another holiday to recover from
this one though…!
Monday, 8 December 2014
Iceland - Very Cool.
I've wanted to go to Iceland for a long time, so when I
finally had it all booked up it was very exciting! Before we knew it the time
had come to get on the plane and we were landing in Reykjavik and shivering in
the freezing air as we waited to board the bus that would take us to our hotel.
We’d booked a Northern Lights tour for the night we arrived, as I knew that if you didn't see the lights on your first trip you could go on the tour again the next night, and the next… until you did see them! I figured we had the best chance if we had the full 5 nights to try, and as seeing the Lights was one of the main reasons Iceland had been on my Must Visit list for so long, I was determined to give it my best shot! As it turned out the tour on our arrival day got cancelled due to heavy cloud cover, so the chance of seeing them that night was gone. Instead, we explored the streets of Reykjavik near to our hotel, and enjoyed a beer or two at a couple of the many bars we passed along the way.
Waking up on the morning of day 2 we set off to see more
of the city in the daylight. During Winter months there’s only around 6 hours
of daylight a day, so we were determined to make the most of it! Reykjavik is a
relatively small city, and feels a lot more like a town than a city. The
streets are quite narrow and there were lots of festive decorations around
which added to the cosy feel, despite the cold weather! We headed down to the
harbour to see the Viking boat statue before taking refuge in Harpa, the
striking concert hall which stands proudly on the sea front. Entry is free, and
we enjoyed warming up over a hot chocolate and people watching through the
glass sided building.
Harpa is stop 1 on the City Sightseeing bus tour, so we
decided to hop on to see more of the far afield parts of Reykjavik that we
hadn’t been able to reach on foot. I’ve used City Sightseeing in numerous other
cities and always enjoyed using the frequent buses to see the city from the top
deck of a bus. So, I was surprised when a small mini van arrived for the tour
and found out each stop was only served once an hour! Still, we jumped on and
plugged our earphones into the audio commentary and decided to do the whole
loop of the tour to get a feel for the city.
In total, the tour took around 45 minutes and listening to the
commentary did teach us a bit more about Reykjavik, and the buildings we were
passing. The ticket was valid for 24 hours so we were able to “hop on and hop
off” as much as we liked in that time, but as hopping off meant having to wait
an hour to then hop back on, it wasn’t a realist option for us. Perhaps the
buses are bigger and more frequent during Summer, but it’s not something I’d
recommend during the Winter months.
The Northern Lights tour was cancelled again that night
(more cloud, grrrr!) so after a meal and some more beers (Happy Hour is from
4pm to 8pm so we made the most of the lower prices!) we headed to bed as us
girls had an early start the next day as we’d booked to visit the Blue Lagoon!
We were booked onto the first bus of the day which meant a
hotel pick up at 8:30am, when it was still pitch black outside (the sun rises
at about 10am!) so arriving at the Blue Lagoon in the half-light felt very
atmospheric. The volcanic rocks and powder blue pools around the entrance added
to the feel that we were entering another world! We excitedly changed into our
swimsuit and robes and headed outside for our first glimpse of the lagoon. We’d
seen it on TV and in pictures of course, but to see it for real was amazing,
and just as exciting as we’d anticipated. Taking off our robes we were freezing but as soon as we were in the
water it was lovely and warm! Because we’d been on the first bus of the day the
lagoon wasn't too busy, so we were able to float around at our leisure and
apply face packs without too many crowds.
I’d booked a massage (you must do this in advance as the
slots fill up very fast) and was really looking forward to it as it was an “in
water treatment” and promised to be the most unusual massage I’d ever had! I
wasn’t let down – my therapist helped me onto a float and then covered me with
a blanket before dunking my body under the water to warm the blanket. She gave
me a lovely relaxing massage which was made even better by the floaty feeling
of being on the water, and despite the cold temperature I was always toasty
thanks to that blanket and regular dunkings! The massage was a fantastic and
unique experience and although a little pricey, I’d certainly recommend it as
it made my visit to the already awesome Blue Lagoon even more memorable.
Thanks to the early bus we were back in Reykjavik by
mid-afternoon and had plenty of time to get ourselves dried and fed before the
Northern Lights tour, which was finally ON that night! It was with excited
anticipation we boarded the bus with the other eager passengers, and set off to
the first stop of the hunt for the Lights. It wasn’t long until the excitement
turned to frustration however, as our driver took us to a small café where we
would “wait for the clouds to pass for 30 minutes.” That 3 minutes turned into
2 hours, and despite patiently looking up at the sky we saw only a slight
slither of light from behind a cloud, and the driver decided to call it a night
as that slither of light “didn’t count” and cloud cover meant there was no more
chance of seeing the Northern Lights that night. Two of our group were heading
home the next day, so we were all gutted and returned back to our hotels
feeling dejected and tired.
We woke the next day to a hurricane warning. Not quite
what we’d had in mind for the girls’ last morning in Reykjavik, but we
soldiered on nonetheless and headed down to the harbour for one last famous hot
dog for them, and some souvenir shopping before waving them off on the airport
bus. After they’d gone we decided to shelter from the weather with a visit to
Hallgrimskirkja church, which sits on top of a hill looking out over Reykjavik.
We passed on the lift to the top (which offers views of the whole city but
charges a fee) and decided on the free option of an English language service
from the local priest. Hallgrimskirkja
is a beautiful church with impressive high ceilings and an enormous organ, so
to experience a service there was lovely. We could hear the wind howling
outside and being on a hill leaving the church meant we got the brunt of the
terrible weather and were nearly blown away as we headed back down to warm up
in our hotel room!
That evening we managed to get out to eat dinner at a
nearby restaurant but the hurricane meant we had to hurry back to our room and
take safe shelter. Needless to say, this was not the weather for flying, and
the girls’ flight home had been cancelled – they were holed up at an airport
hotel and had to phone work to explain they wouldn't be in as planned the next
morning! Of course, the Northern Lights tour that evening was also cancelled
too. We were starting to think we weren't meant to see them.
The next morning we woke early, as we were booked onto a
Golden Circle tour. Much to our happy surprise, the tour was going ahead as the
worst of the storm had passed. There was now snow falling but the worst of the
wind had died down, so we jumped back on the bus and nabbed the front seats for
the best views as we drove through beautiful Iceland.
The Golden Circle is a well-trodden tourist trail, but
for good reason. It covers around 300km
looping from Reykjavik and back, and takes in a geothermally active valley
featuring the active geyser Strokkur, the huge and impressive Gulfoss waterfalls,
and stunning Þingvellir National Park where the tectonic plates of Eurasia and
North America meet, albeit with a gape between them which is visible as you
pass by. All three locations were fantastic, and the snow only added to the
magical atmosphere. Watching Strokkur blow was hugely impressive, as was our
first glimpse of roaring Gulfoss, as it’s waters crashed down. Þingvellir
National Park has been used to film scenes for Game of Thrones, so
people on the coach who were fans of the series really enjoyed seeing locations
from the show. I don’t watch it myself, but still loved walking through the
park and admiring the beautiful snowy lakes, waterfalls and rocks. It did feel
like we’d stepped back in time to the years when Viking parliaments were held there
and the drowning pool was in use for law breakers. Out Golden Circle day tour
was fab, and I’d definitely recommend anyone heading to Iceland does one if
they have the time!
Even though we’d had an amazing day already, it was about
to get better… the Northern Lights tour that night was ON! Even better, we
could see lots of blue sky above the snowy streets, and felt quietly confident
that tonight could be the night. Back on the bus we were taken back to the
national park, as earlier tours had seen the start of the lights there, and as
soon as we stepped off the coach we could already see more than we had on our
previous attempt. Three distinct lines were forming – white and fluffy, but not
like clouds. As we craned our necks to the sky the lines got more prominent,
and we could also see slithers of light coming from the cloud base where the
lines began. It was beautiful, but not the green colour we’d seen on
photographs… our Northern Lights were white, with an occasional minty hue to
them. Apparently cameras make the greens show darker, so although the naked eye
does see green on particularly strong shows, it’s more usual for the colours to
be fainter when you’re looking at them compared to photos. This was proven when
some photos of the night were shared on Facebook… the picture below was taken
by another lady on our bus, and it appears much greener than we saw. Still, there
was no doubt about it this time – we had seen the Northern Lights! It was the
perfect last night of our Iceland trip, and we headed back to bed with smiles
on our faces, which remained there the next day as we boarded the plane back to
England, and back to reality. Iceland, you are magical. I hope I will be back
again one day.
We booked our tours in advance through Wow and they were
operated in country by Reykjavik Excursions. We stayed at Centerhotel Klopp and
flew with Icelandair. All come recommended!
With additional thanks also to Ester at the Blue Lagoon for her help booking our packages and massages in advance.
Sunday, 7 September 2014
India 2013... Goa time - Candolim
It was yet another early start after the excitement of our visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort as we were being picked up at 7am to head back to Delhi airport. We had flights booked to head down to Goa on the brilliantly named Spice Jet, and were please to find an as yet un-sampled Indian beer in the departures lounge before we took off. The flight took 2 and a half hours, and although obviously more expensive than the train would have been, it was the right call for our trip as we were on a tight schedule and unfortunately didn't have 36 hours to spare to experience the train journey!
Landing in Goa we were greeted by Anil, the uncle of a friend of Gemma's, who had generously helped to arrange a car for us, as well as accommodation in Candolim - our first Goan stop. The drive there took just under 2 hours, and we were greeted by the friendly housekeeper who showed us around our villa at Alcon Holiday Village and helped us to settle in. As soon as we'd showered we headed out for a wander along the main road in Candolim, and settled on a restaurant which had a lovely patio area and a band playing. We ate delicious fish curries and enjoyed a few beers before heading back past the local cows and beeping rickshaws, to our villa - where we bravely battled a giant cockroach before calling it a night!
The next morning was our first lie in of the trip, and we enjoyed it! After a delicious traditional Indian breakfast at the hotel attached to or villa we decided on a relaxed day, and made the 2 minute walk from our villa to the beach. The "season" hadn't really kicked in yet (things get going in Goa around late October) but a few early birds had set up shop already and we were able to hire sun loungers (and a parasol for me and my pale skin!) as well as treating ourselves to massages, beers, and a few goodies from ladies selling jewellery. We spent a few chilled out hours there, chatting to the guys running the sun lounger hut, and watching the sun set. It was a perfect first day in Goa, and after another delicious meal out, we retired to bed ready for the next morning's adventures.... Polly, Gemma and I were off to visit some volunteer projects...
Landing in Goa we were greeted by Anil, the uncle of a friend of Gemma's, who had generously helped to arrange a car for us, as well as accommodation in Candolim - our first Goan stop. The drive there took just under 2 hours, and we were greeted by the friendly housekeeper who showed us around our villa at Alcon Holiday Village and helped us to settle in. As soon as we'd showered we headed out for a wander along the main road in Candolim, and settled on a restaurant which had a lovely patio area and a band playing. We ate delicious fish curries and enjoyed a few beers before heading back past the local cows and beeping rickshaws, to our villa - where we bravely battled a giant cockroach before calling it a night!
The next morning was our first lie in of the trip, and we enjoyed it! After a delicious traditional Indian breakfast at the hotel attached to or villa we decided on a relaxed day, and made the 2 minute walk from our villa to the beach. The "season" hadn't really kicked in yet (things get going in Goa around late October) but a few early birds had set up shop already and we were able to hire sun loungers (and a parasol for me and my pale skin!) as well as treating ourselves to massages, beers, and a few goodies from ladies selling jewellery. We spent a few chilled out hours there, chatting to the guys running the sun lounger hut, and watching the sun set. It was a perfect first day in Goa, and after another delicious meal out, we retired to bed ready for the next morning's adventures.... Polly, Gemma and I were off to visit some volunteer projects...
Monday, 21 April 2014
Easter Escape... Isle of Wight
Happy Easter!
I hope everyone's had a lovely Bank Holiday weekend and made the most of those lovely 4 days off work! To make sure we did, Dan and I decided (very last minute!) to head to the Isle of Wight. I hadn't been since I was 2 years old, so in reality it was my first visit, and I was excited.
We drove to Chichester on Thursday night so that we were nice and close to the ferry terminal, and stayed in the trusty Travelodge before an early start for the 8:30am ferry from Portsmouth to Fishbourne. The ferry crossing only took 45 minutes and I enjoyed standing on the deck watching the Isle get closer and closer, and lots of sailing boats passing by in the wind.
As we arrived so early, we had the whole day to explore, and made sure we did! First stop was The Needles Park where we enjoyed the views of the iconic Needles rocks, and decided to get the chair lift down to the beach at Alum Bay. Alum Bay is known for it's colourful cliffs and sand, and it was lovely to see up close the purple and yellow tinged rock and look out to sea and the Needles. The chairlift itself was a little nerve-wracking as I don't like heights, but offered great views and was good fun!
After filling a souvenir bottle with coloured sand in the Needles Park and trying our hand at hook-a-duck and the hoopla, we were back in the car and singing along to IoW Radio back on track with our drive around the coast. We stopped off in Freshwater Bay, before lunch in Shanklin, which was a lovely town and somewhere I'd like to see more of in the future.
I hope everyone's had a lovely Bank Holiday weekend and made the most of those lovely 4 days off work! To make sure we did, Dan and I decided (very last minute!) to head to the Isle of Wight. I hadn't been since I was 2 years old, so in reality it was my first visit, and I was excited.
We drove to Chichester on Thursday night so that we were nice and close to the ferry terminal, and stayed in the trusty Travelodge before an early start for the 8:30am ferry from Portsmouth to Fishbourne. The ferry crossing only took 45 minutes and I enjoyed standing on the deck watching the Isle get closer and closer, and lots of sailing boats passing by in the wind.
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| Bright and windy on the Solent |
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| Yikes! It's steep... |
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| Coloured cliffs |
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| The Needles |
Our final stop of the day was The Garlic Farm where we were unfortunately too late for a farm tour, but still enjoyed tasting the different foodstuffs on offer, and a browse in the farm shop, where Dan picked up a garlic beer to try later!
We stayed in the Chad Hill Hotel in Sandown, which was a lovely little B&B. Sandown itself was forgettable unfortunately - the pier was tired and there didn't seem much going on in the town itself. We headed to Newport for dinner and although it was nice to see another town on the island, Newport was much like any other English town - Pizza Express, Yate's, and so on. Next time we'll stick to Shanklin!
The next morning we were up early and after a delicious breakfast at the B&B we were headed back to the ferry, and home. It was only a whistle-stop trip, but a lovely one, and I'll definitely be making a return visit to see the things we missed out on, and revisit those we enjoyed.
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| Not exactly typical beach wear but still loving it... me on Alum Bay beach |
Saturday, 29 March 2014
India 2013 - Agra day... Taj Mahal!
After the excitement of arriving in India for our first day we had a very early start on day 2 - alarms going off in order to meet driver Ajay at 5:45am... eek! No one minded though, as we were off to see the Taj Mahal!
Ajay brought with him a colleague, Rajesh, who spoke fluent English and was to be our guide for the day. He helped us buy our tickets and waited for us while we queued in the non-Indian womens queue for entry to the Taj (tourists are also charged more to get in, although at only around eight pounds we had no complaints!) We'd decided to get to the Taj so early as I'd heard it was best to go first thing to avoid the bigger crowds, and the hottest weather. I was pleased we did! Obviously it was still very busy (this is a wonder of the world after all!) but we were able to stroll around without too many crowds, and take time with photos. The early morning mist added to the occasion too - that first glimpse of the Taj, through the mist, was very atmospheric and a great climax to the story Rajesh had told us about Shah Jahan, the man who built the Taj Mahal as a tribute to his wife, Mumtaz.
I don't need to tell you that the Taj Mahal was an awesome sight, and that seeing it was the highlight of my visit. That goes without saying! I don't need to show you my photos either, because my amateur attempts can easily be bettered with a quick google search! I am going to though, so here goes...
As this was our only full day in Agra we were determined to make the most of it, and after a quick pit stop we were back in the car and on our way to see a traditional workshop where the beautiful marble mosaics like the ones that adorn the Taj are still make. We watched as the workmen painstakingly crafted items, and were able to see (and buy!) the finished products in the gift shop.
From there, we headed to Agra Fort, Shah Jahan's palace and the place he was imprisoned for the final years of his life, overthrown by his son who stole his crown. He lived out his days under house arrest in his bedroom, sitting on his balcony and staring across the river for views of his beloved Taj Mahal. The Fort is less well preserved than the Taj, but still well worth a visit, and we enjoyed having Rajesh with us (as we had at the Taj) as he was able to share interesting facts and stories with us to enhance the trip, and having a guide with us also meant we weren't hassled by people wanting to sell us things, or guide us themselves. I'd certainly recommend investing in a guide to anyone heading to Agra.
Final stop of the day was the site over the river from the Taj Mahal where Shah Jahan had planned - and started - to build a second Taj, identical to the first but in black marble, not white. He'd never completed it as his son overthrew him and kept him under house arrest at the fort before he had chance, but the site is a great place to go to view the Taj at sunset, and take some photos. We could see how busy the Taj still was, people swarming around in huge groups, and this made us even more pleased we'd got up early to beat the rush! It was a lovely end to our day in Agra, and we headed back to the hotel happy and enjoyed a delicious final meal before bed, and another early start to get back to Delhi, and a flight on to the next stage of our adventure, in Goa...
Ajay brought with him a colleague, Rajesh, who spoke fluent English and was to be our guide for the day. He helped us buy our tickets and waited for us while we queued in the non-Indian womens queue for entry to the Taj (tourists are also charged more to get in, although at only around eight pounds we had no complaints!) We'd decided to get to the Taj so early as I'd heard it was best to go first thing to avoid the bigger crowds, and the hottest weather. I was pleased we did! Obviously it was still very busy (this is a wonder of the world after all!) but we were able to stroll around without too many crowds, and take time with photos. The early morning mist added to the occasion too - that first glimpse of the Taj, through the mist, was very atmospheric and a great climax to the story Rajesh had told us about Shah Jahan, the man who built the Taj Mahal as a tribute to his wife, Mumtaz.
I don't need to tell you that the Taj Mahal was an awesome sight, and that seeing it was the highlight of my visit. That goes without saying! I don't need to show you my photos either, because my amateur attempts can easily be bettered with a quick google search! I am going to though, so here goes...
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| Team shot! |
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| View of one of the mosques from inside the Taj |
From there, we headed to Agra Fort, Shah Jahan's palace and the place he was imprisoned for the final years of his life, overthrown by his son who stole his crown. He lived out his days under house arrest in his bedroom, sitting on his balcony and staring across the river for views of his beloved Taj Mahal. The Fort is less well preserved than the Taj, but still well worth a visit, and we enjoyed having Rajesh with us (as we had at the Taj) as he was able to share interesting facts and stories with us to enhance the trip, and having a guide with us also meant we weren't hassled by people wanting to sell us things, or guide us themselves. I'd certainly recommend investing in a guide to anyone heading to Agra.
Final stop of the day was the site over the river from the Taj Mahal where Shah Jahan had planned - and started - to build a second Taj, identical to the first but in black marble, not white. He'd never completed it as his son overthrew him and kept him under house arrest at the fort before he had chance, but the site is a great place to go to view the Taj at sunset, and take some photos. We could see how busy the Taj still was, people swarming around in huge groups, and this made us even more pleased we'd got up early to beat the rush! It was a lovely end to our day in Agra, and we headed back to the hotel happy and enjoyed a delicious final meal before bed, and another early start to get back to Delhi, and a flight on to the next stage of our adventure, in Goa...
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| Had to do it. Selfie at the site of the Black Taj! |
Saturday, 15 March 2014
India 2013 - day 1!
I went to India 5 months ago, and so far have only written one post about it. Bad blogger. So, in an attempt to put that right, here's my account of our first day...
We flew into Delhi in 2 groups - Polly and Jenny first, then Gemma, Hannah and I around 6 hours later. My colleagues at Idex had arranged a driver for our time in the North, and he'd picked up Pol and Jen to take them to a guesthouse to relax and wait for us to fly in. We landed and were met in arrivals by the girls and smiley driver Ajay, and it was straight on the road to our first destination - Agra!
The journey to Agra took around 5 hours by car. It's also possible to take the train, which is a cheaper option and I'm told a lot of fun. We decided to go for the car however, as we were on a short timescale and wanted the convenience. We were also lucky to have the support of Ajay thanks to Idex, so it was the perfect option for our trip.
Arriving into Agra itself we got caught up in some hectic traffic - many, many cars, trucks and bikes all vying for a gap in the roads, and herds of cows being given right of way over any vehicles, while monkeys darted around eating bananas and jumping from rooftops. It was a crazy welcome to Agra, but when we arrived at our hotel, the Radisson blu (thank you for the travel agent rate rooms!) it was a calming contrast - beautiful and relaxing. We jumped straight in the pool and enjoyed some cocktails, which was to become a theme of our time there!
As a self confessed "cheapskate backpacker" the luxury of Radisson blu was a bit of a shock to my system! However, it was absolutely lovely and well worth the (not at all unreasonable) price we paid for our stay. Our rooms were fantastic - spacious, clean and with a well stocked bathroom and mini bar! The beds were ridiculously comfy and the free WiFi was very handy for keeping people back home updated (translation: jealous!) about our trip. We ate in the hotel both nights and the food was delicious - a poolside bbq on night 1, and an Indian tasting feast on night 2 (my favourite meal of the stay). We also enjoyed the varied and tasty buffet breakfast, and several drinks in the hotel bar as well as by the pool. Finally, Polly, Jenny and I treated ourselves to a massage in the hotel spa (lush!) and we all made full use of the pool and sun loungers.
Our first day in India finished with us wearily calling it a night around 11:30, after chatting with a group from the British Legion who had brought their fathers and grandfathers to visit the battlefields in Northern India where they'd served in their youth. They were finishing their trip the way we were starting ours - a couple of nights chilling out at Radisson blu and a visit to the Taj Mahal. We headed to bed tired but excited for what the next day would bring...
We flew into Delhi in 2 groups - Polly and Jenny first, then Gemma, Hannah and I around 6 hours later. My colleagues at Idex had arranged a driver for our time in the North, and he'd picked up Pol and Jen to take them to a guesthouse to relax and wait for us to fly in. We landed and were met in arrivals by the girls and smiley driver Ajay, and it was straight on the road to our first destination - Agra!
The journey to Agra took around 5 hours by car. It's also possible to take the train, which is a cheaper option and I'm told a lot of fun. We decided to go for the car however, as we were on a short timescale and wanted the convenience. We were also lucky to have the support of Ajay thanks to Idex, so it was the perfect option for our trip.
Arriving into Agra itself we got caught up in some hectic traffic - many, many cars, trucks and bikes all vying for a gap in the roads, and herds of cows being given right of way over any vehicles, while monkeys darted around eating bananas and jumping from rooftops. It was a crazy welcome to Agra, but when we arrived at our hotel, the Radisson blu (thank you for the travel agent rate rooms!) it was a calming contrast - beautiful and relaxing. We jumped straight in the pool and enjoyed some cocktails, which was to become a theme of our time there!
As a self confessed "cheapskate backpacker" the luxury of Radisson blu was a bit of a shock to my system! However, it was absolutely lovely and well worth the (not at all unreasonable) price we paid for our stay. Our rooms were fantastic - spacious, clean and with a well stocked bathroom and mini bar! The beds were ridiculously comfy and the free WiFi was very handy for keeping people back home updated (translation: jealous!) about our trip. We ate in the hotel both nights and the food was delicious - a poolside bbq on night 1, and an Indian tasting feast on night 2 (my favourite meal of the stay). We also enjoyed the varied and tasty buffet breakfast, and several drinks in the hotel bar as well as by the pool. Finally, Polly, Jenny and I treated ourselves to a massage in the hotel spa (lush!) and we all made full use of the pool and sun loungers.
Our first day in India finished with us wearily calling it a night around 11:30, after chatting with a group from the British Legion who had brought their fathers and grandfathers to visit the battlefields in Northern India where they'd served in their youth. They were finishing their trip the way we were starting ours - a couple of nights chilling out at Radisson blu and a visit to the Taj Mahal. We headed to bed tired but excited for what the next day would bring...
This is the life! The pool area, and Gemma and my room
Saturday, 8 March 2014
I am lucky, many are not. My thoughts on International Women's Day
It's International Women's Day today, and I've seen various reactions to that on social media, one of them being "why is this still relevant?" As a woman (and feminist - say it loud and proud!) who lives in the UK, I appreciate that many of our battles have been won, and that I am very lucky. However, this is International Women's Day, and many women all over the world (some closer to home than you would expect) are not so lucky, and it's their rights that we still need to join together and fight for.
I'm not going to talk in statistics, but for example...
The right to choose if I continue with an unplanned pregnancy (or not)
If I fall pregnant unexpectedly, I can choose to have an abortion. I can make that choice with the support of counsellors and medical professionals and have the procedure in a safe, clean environment. There are many women around the world (and as close to home as Ireland) who do not have that option. Women seeking illegal and dangerous abortions, or flying far from home to have the procedure secretly, alone. Women having unwanted babies, and babies being born to women who resent and neglect them. I am lucky, many are not.
The right to vote (or not)
We all know of the Suffragettes and their fight to give women the vote. Those brave and trail blazing women are the reason I can walk into a room and put a cross in a box, why I can have my voice heard when my country elects it's government. Many women in countries around the world still don't have that right. I am lucky, many are not.
The right to drive (or not)
I have a driving licence, and I own a car. I can get in that car by myself, and drive without fear of being arrested. In Saudi Arabia (and maybe other countries, I don't know) it's illegal to do this. I am lucky, many are not.
The right to NOT have my genitals mutilated
My genitals are intact, I am not scarred. I can urinate and menstruate without pain, I can have (and enjoy) pain-free sex when I am ready to. There is no (or not) on this point, just a great big NOT. Female Genital Mutilation is happening, it is happening to British girls, and girls around the world. We should not turn a blind eye, or pretend it isn't happening because it is, and it's abuse. I won't rant any further, but please read up on this one, and join the fight. Daughters of Eve is a good place to start. I am lucky, many are not.
The right to choose who I marry (or not)
If I want to get married, I can. I can marry a man or woman, someone of any religion or race. If I don't want to get married, I don;t have to. I can stay single forever, or live happily with my partner in unmarried bliss, and no one will judge me or ostracise me. If I get married and change my mind, I can get a divorce and move on. There are many, many people all over the world who do not have these rights (and I acknowledge that not all of these people are women, but the point remains valid). Child brides, women forced to marry their rapist to preserve their "honour," forced marriage, gay couples unable to celebrate (or in some countries even publicly show) their relationships - the list is long, and sad. I am lucky, many are not.
I'm sure there are more points, and if I sat and researched I'm positive there would be many more things I could include in this post, but this is just my stream of thoughts put onto a page. The joy of blogging!
So, there you have it. Why I will be celebrating International Women's Day today, and supporting women's rights as an out and proud feminist throughout the year. Go, girls!
I'm not going to talk in statistics, but for example...
The right to choose if I continue with an unplanned pregnancy (or not)
If I fall pregnant unexpectedly, I can choose to have an abortion. I can make that choice with the support of counsellors and medical professionals and have the procedure in a safe, clean environment. There are many women around the world (and as close to home as Ireland) who do not have that option. Women seeking illegal and dangerous abortions, or flying far from home to have the procedure secretly, alone. Women having unwanted babies, and babies being born to women who resent and neglect them. I am lucky, many are not.
The right to vote (or not)
We all know of the Suffragettes and their fight to give women the vote. Those brave and trail blazing women are the reason I can walk into a room and put a cross in a box, why I can have my voice heard when my country elects it's government. Many women in countries around the world still don't have that right. I am lucky, many are not.
The right to drive (or not)
I have a driving licence, and I own a car. I can get in that car by myself, and drive without fear of being arrested. In Saudi Arabia (and maybe other countries, I don't know) it's illegal to do this. I am lucky, many are not.
The right to NOT have my genitals mutilated
My genitals are intact, I am not scarred. I can urinate and menstruate without pain, I can have (and enjoy) pain-free sex when I am ready to. There is no (or not) on this point, just a great big NOT. Female Genital Mutilation is happening, it is happening to British girls, and girls around the world. We should not turn a blind eye, or pretend it isn't happening because it is, and it's abuse. I won't rant any further, but please read up on this one, and join the fight. Daughters of Eve is a good place to start. I am lucky, many are not.
The right to choose who I marry (or not)
If I want to get married, I can. I can marry a man or woman, someone of any religion or race. If I don't want to get married, I don;t have to. I can stay single forever, or live happily with my partner in unmarried bliss, and no one will judge me or ostracise me. If I get married and change my mind, I can get a divorce and move on. There are many, many people all over the world who do not have these rights (and I acknowledge that not all of these people are women, but the point remains valid). Child brides, women forced to marry their rapist to preserve their "honour," forced marriage, gay couples unable to celebrate (or in some countries even publicly show) their relationships - the list is long, and sad. I am lucky, many are not.
I'm sure there are more points, and if I sat and researched I'm positive there would be many more things I could include in this post, but this is just my stream of thoughts put onto a page. The joy of blogging!
So, there you have it. Why I will be celebrating International Women's Day today, and supporting women's rights as an out and proud feminist throughout the year. Go, girls!
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| Three amazing women - my mom Chris (in blue) and her friends, my "aunties" Kate (in white) and Mary (pink) xxx |
Sunday, 5 January 2014
Save a Life in the New Year!
So I've been meaning to write this post for a while and a letter I received today reminded me, so here it is!
It's actually good timing - a new year, people making resolutions to do new things, be better, help out and so on... here's a very easy way to do all of that - give blood!
I've been giving blood for just over 4 years now, after being encouraged to do so by my friend Reg, who is a super donor and well on his way to 100 donations. It was one of those things I always thought I should do, but never got around to. Reg made sure I had no excuses, and came along with me that first time. Now I'm addicted - I give as regularly as I can (not as regularly as I'd like, as travelling to certain places means serving donor bans for safety) and have now made 11 donations so far.
I wanted to write a post about my experiences of blood donation to hopefully inspire people who are thinking about becoming a donor to take the plunge and go for it!
Blood sessions are held very regularly, and at lots of venues. I'm confident there's one near you which you can make an appointment for. You show up, fill in a questionnaire and take a drink of water or squash (being well hydrated makes the donation faster and easier). Then you're called to see a nurse who will go over the questionnaire with you, and check any answers which need elaborating on. It's nothing too intrusive - travel and medication questions and yes there are a couple about your sex life, but simple yes/no answers and no judgement.
If your questionnaire answers show that you're eligible to donate the nurse will take a pin prick sample of blood to test your iron levels. I just look away at this point, and it's easy and fast! If your iron levels are ok it's onto the next stage, when a donation bed is available.
When you're sat on the bed (which is actually now a swanky chair which tilts back to a lying down position!) the nurse will clean your arm and check your personal details, and then it's time to be hooked up. This is another point I don't look, and I know it's one of the main reasons a lot of people don't donate. What I'd like to say that is I don't like needles, I don't like pain and I'm a bit of a baby about both. But, the nurses are always lovely and very professional - I wiggle my toes and hum to the radio and it's all over and ready in a few seconds. If I can do it, so can anyone!
Once the needle is in it's time to relax and let your vein do it's thing. To speed up the process I clench and unclench my fist while listening to the radio, but I see people reading books, playing games, listening to their own music, chatting to a supporting friend, whatever floats your boat! It's about ten minutes until the donation bag is full and when the machine beeps to signal that it's ready, a nurse will come over to take the needle out (look away now!) and pop on your plaster. They'll sit you up nice and slowly in that swanky chair, and when you're ready it's over to the refreshment table!
I always go for a cup of tea and some custard cream biccies, but the choice is yours - tea, coffee, squash, crisps, all sorts of biscuits, chocolate... the refreshment table is a reward well worth the donation! They also have stickers (I love a "be nice to me, I gave blood" one on my jumper!) and you can grab a key ring with your blood type on too.
All in, I usually take an hour out for the donation process and always feel great afterwards. Plus, as you make more donations you work towards awards (I recently got my bronze!) which is a nice treat and makes you feel like you're in a little club. Plus, you can't beat the feel good buzz of knowing your donation could save a life.
I hope I've inspired someone reading this to give blood. It's a great thing to do if you're able, and I really recommend getting involved. You can find out more and sign up to a donor session here: www.blood.co.uk
It's actually good timing - a new year, people making resolutions to do new things, be better, help out and so on... here's a very easy way to do all of that - give blood!
I've been giving blood for just over 4 years now, after being encouraged to do so by my friend Reg, who is a super donor and well on his way to 100 donations. It was one of those things I always thought I should do, but never got around to. Reg made sure I had no excuses, and came along with me that first time. Now I'm addicted - I give as regularly as I can (not as regularly as I'd like, as travelling to certain places means serving donor bans for safety) and have now made 11 donations so far.
I wanted to write a post about my experiences of blood donation to hopefully inspire people who are thinking about becoming a donor to take the plunge and go for it!
Blood sessions are held very regularly, and at lots of venues. I'm confident there's one near you which you can make an appointment for. You show up, fill in a questionnaire and take a drink of water or squash (being well hydrated makes the donation faster and easier). Then you're called to see a nurse who will go over the questionnaire with you, and check any answers which need elaborating on. It's nothing too intrusive - travel and medication questions and yes there are a couple about your sex life, but simple yes/no answers and no judgement.
If your questionnaire answers show that you're eligible to donate the nurse will take a pin prick sample of blood to test your iron levels. I just look away at this point, and it's easy and fast! If your iron levels are ok it's onto the next stage, when a donation bed is available.
When you're sat on the bed (which is actually now a swanky chair which tilts back to a lying down position!) the nurse will clean your arm and check your personal details, and then it's time to be hooked up. This is another point I don't look, and I know it's one of the main reasons a lot of people don't donate. What I'd like to say that is I don't like needles, I don't like pain and I'm a bit of a baby about both. But, the nurses are always lovely and very professional - I wiggle my toes and hum to the radio and it's all over and ready in a few seconds. If I can do it, so can anyone!
Once the needle is in it's time to relax and let your vein do it's thing. To speed up the process I clench and unclench my fist while listening to the radio, but I see people reading books, playing games, listening to their own music, chatting to a supporting friend, whatever floats your boat! It's about ten minutes until the donation bag is full and when the machine beeps to signal that it's ready, a nurse will come over to take the needle out (look away now!) and pop on your plaster. They'll sit you up nice and slowly in that swanky chair, and when you're ready it's over to the refreshment table!
I always go for a cup of tea and some custard cream biccies, but the choice is yours - tea, coffee, squash, crisps, all sorts of biscuits, chocolate... the refreshment table is a reward well worth the donation! They also have stickers (I love a "be nice to me, I gave blood" one on my jumper!) and you can grab a key ring with your blood type on too.
All in, I usually take an hour out for the donation process and always feel great afterwards. Plus, as you make more donations you work towards awards (I recently got my bronze!) which is a nice treat and makes you feel like you're in a little club. Plus, you can't beat the feel good buzz of knowing your donation could save a life.
I hope I've inspired someone reading this to give blood. It's a great thing to do if you're able, and I really recommend getting involved. You can find out more and sign up to a donor session here: www.blood.co.uk
Sunday, 10 November 2013
Volunteer visit - Goa, India
Last month I spent ten days in India. It was amazing and I'm going to spend a lot of time blogging about it in detail over the coming months! First up though, I want to talk about the day I spent visiting the i-to-i Volunteering projects in Goa.
The in-country co-ordinator who looks after all of the i-to-i volunteers in Goa is called Jenny, and I met up with her to see what the volunteers get up to when they head to Goa for anything from 2 to 12 weeks. To start the day off, we headed to Pauline's house. Pauline and her husband Eddie are the homestay hosts for volunteers, and welcomed me in the same warm way they do all of their guests - with a smile and a cup of tea! I had a little look around the volunteer bedrooms (twin share, en suite) and they were lovely, just what you'd need after a hard day with the kids! The house is just 2 minutes walk from the main street in bustling Calangute, with everything volunteers need to feel at home.
Goa has a very high population of migrant workers - people who come from other areas of India to find work in construction, always needed in this constantly growing area of the country. The children from these families are often behind in their education due to moving around, and their families not being able to afford education for them. The majority of projects i-to-i work with focus on helping these children to gain an education - getting them up to speed enough to join mainstream school, at no cost to their parents. They also help them to learn English, which is a crucial skill if the kids are to gain meaningful employment when they grow up.
Our first visit was to Don Bosco Primary School, where volunteers help out in the infant class. These children, smartly dressed in their cute blue uniforms, were so friendly - running over to greet us as we entered their tiny classroom and keen to show off their singing skills! There are around 30 children in he class with just 1 teacher, so volunteers are really valued! The school is pretty under resourced too, and appreciates any materials volunteers can brig with them. We saw murals and pictures on the walls which past volunteers had helped the children to make, as well as listening to the English songs the kids had learned! Volunteers who are placed at the primary school spend their mornings there before heading to an orphanage in the afternoon, to help the teenage girls who live there with their homework, and to assist with mealtimes. The girls love interacting with the volunteers and are always curious to learn more about where they're from and their life back home.
Next stop for me however, was Educators Trust, a programme which has also been set up to help children from migrant worker families. There are 3 centres and volunteers could be helping out at any of them. Children here range in age from around 6 upwards, and need help with reading, writing, maths and more. They're all so keen and dedicated to their studies, and proud of the uniform they've been given to wear by the project. As we as academic classes, the centres help with music skills (they have a keyboard and several violins, so any musical volunteers are welcomed!), sports and play time. They also regularly visit slum settlements to donate clothes to children who need them.
After lunch Jenny took us to visit the third and final i-to-i project, Don Bosco Mobile School. This project started life as a school on a bus - driving around slum settlements to pick up children, stopping off when all were aboard for a lesson. As the project has grown they've been able to expand, and I was able to visit their shiny new (still under construction!) school. It's a fantastic school with beautiful classrooms, and the school bus still collects the children from their settlements and drops them back at the end of the day, except now they have a permanent base for their lessons! We peeped in as students took exams (which will assess if they're at a level where they're able to enter mainstream school) and watched as they rehearsed for the grand opening of the new building. There was singing and dancing - it's going to be a really great show!
My time with Jenny, Pauline and the staff and volunteers at the projects was fantastic. It was inspiring to see how passionate everyone is about improving the lives of the children they're helping. Although the kids have very little, they're all hard-working, polite and happy, and it was a privilege to meet them all. Such worthwhile projects really do deserve support, and I'd urge anyone considering volunteering overseas to get over there without delay! Homely accommodation, hardworking projects and fantastic support all in the paradise location of Goa makes this an ideal way to give something back to those who need it while having a fantastic experience and making memories to last forever. What are you waiting for?!
The in-country co-ordinator who looks after all of the i-to-i volunteers in Goa is called Jenny, and I met up with her to see what the volunteers get up to when they head to Goa for anything from 2 to 12 weeks. To start the day off, we headed to Pauline's house. Pauline and her husband Eddie are the homestay hosts for volunteers, and welcomed me in the same warm way they do all of their guests - with a smile and a cup of tea! I had a little look around the volunteer bedrooms (twin share, en suite) and they were lovely, just what you'd need after a hard day with the kids! The house is just 2 minutes walk from the main street in bustling Calangute, with everything volunteers need to feel at home.
Goa has a very high population of migrant workers - people who come from other areas of India to find work in construction, always needed in this constantly growing area of the country. The children from these families are often behind in their education due to moving around, and their families not being able to afford education for them. The majority of projects i-to-i work with focus on helping these children to gain an education - getting them up to speed enough to join mainstream school, at no cost to their parents. They also help them to learn English, which is a crucial skill if the kids are to gain meaningful employment when they grow up.
Our first visit was to Don Bosco Primary School, where volunteers help out in the infant class. These children, smartly dressed in their cute blue uniforms, were so friendly - running over to greet us as we entered their tiny classroom and keen to show off their singing skills! There are around 30 children in he class with just 1 teacher, so volunteers are really valued! The school is pretty under resourced too, and appreciates any materials volunteers can brig with them. We saw murals and pictures on the walls which past volunteers had helped the children to make, as well as listening to the English songs the kids had learned! Volunteers who are placed at the primary school spend their mornings there before heading to an orphanage in the afternoon, to help the teenage girls who live there with their homework, and to assist with mealtimes. The girls love interacting with the volunteers and are always curious to learn more about where they're from and their life back home.
Next stop for me however, was Educators Trust, a programme which has also been set up to help children from migrant worker families. There are 3 centres and volunteers could be helping out at any of them. Children here range in age from around 6 upwards, and need help with reading, writing, maths and more. They're all so keen and dedicated to their studies, and proud of the uniform they've been given to wear by the project. As we as academic classes, the centres help with music skills (they have a keyboard and several violins, so any musical volunteers are welcomed!), sports and play time. They also regularly visit slum settlements to donate clothes to children who need them.
After lunch Jenny took us to visit the third and final i-to-i project, Don Bosco Mobile School. This project started life as a school on a bus - driving around slum settlements to pick up children, stopping off when all were aboard for a lesson. As the project has grown they've been able to expand, and I was able to visit their shiny new (still under construction!) school. It's a fantastic school with beautiful classrooms, and the school bus still collects the children from their settlements and drops them back at the end of the day, except now they have a permanent base for their lessons! We peeped in as students took exams (which will assess if they're at a level where they're able to enter mainstream school) and watched as they rehearsed for the grand opening of the new building. There was singing and dancing - it's going to be a really great show!
My time with Jenny, Pauline and the staff and volunteers at the projects was fantastic. It was inspiring to see how passionate everyone is about improving the lives of the children they're helping. Although the kids have very little, they're all hard-working, polite and happy, and it was a privilege to meet them all. Such worthwhile projects really do deserve support, and I'd urge anyone considering volunteering overseas to get over there without delay! Homely accommodation, hardworking projects and fantastic support all in the paradise location of Goa makes this an ideal way to give something back to those who need it while having a fantastic experience and making memories to last forever. What are you waiting for?!
Wednesday, 16 October 2013
Pack Attack
I work in travel, and I am always being asked what to pack, how to pack, what to pack it in... you get the point. I also get asked this by my friends when I travel with them, and they marvel at my "light traveller" skills.
Well I've just packed my backpack (I go to India TOMORROW, eeee!) and I thought I'd share my packing tale, becausein doing so I can postpone having to start on my hand luggage I'm nice like that. I don't like packing, but I do have it down to a fine art.
For long trips where I'll be moving around, I always use my trusty backpack. If I'm staying in one location for the whole trip then my holdall on wheels does the job, but I do love my backpack - his name is Maguire, we've been together since 2002 and he is covered in patches from places I've been.
Maguire is a "top loader" backpack, because he's old. This basically means you can't open it up like a suitcase to neatly arrange your things, which can bea pain in the arse annoying. So, to get around this, I use plastic bags (sturdy ones, not supermarket jobbies) to keep my clothes folded neatly, and pack them horizontally, one on top of another. I have one bag for tops, one bag for bottoms. Down the sides of the plastic bags squeeze some other essentials (see picture for more details!), my bath bag goes on top of these, then I use my beach bag to put in all my underwear, my bikini and sarong, and beach towel. This goes on top of everything. Shoes in the bottom, and the side pockets are free for any last minute additions or more importantly, souvenirs as I go along!
Above you'll see my beach bag and my tops and bottoms carriers! There's also my travel towel (space saving, quick drying genius), my bath bag, make-up bag (only a few bits, for nights out - I prefer natural in the day!), first-aid kit, plug adapter bag, sanitary towels (I take my preferred brand as it isn't always easy to pick them up when away), tissues, a canvas bag for storing laundry, and shoes (espadrilles, nice sandals, day sandals, plastic beach/shower shoes - I'll wear my heaviest, comfy walking shoes on the plane)
I'm not going to go into minute detail about what's in my bath bag, or how many t-shirts I've taken, but I will list my few essential items...
Floaty trousers for keeping cool and covering up when visiting temples etc
A scarf to cover my head at religious sites/when it's too hot!
High concentration deet bug spray
Factor 50 sun cream (not easy to pick up overseas)
Re-hydration sachets
You'll notice that I haven't packed a hairdryer, or straighteners. I did used to be one of those people, but I learned it's much easier just to wash, plait and go! But hey, I'm not judging... if you want to take them, squeeze 'em in! I also don't pack any jewelery - I'll wear stud earrings and a "wear with anything" necklace on the plane, and then pick up irresistible local pieces as I go along.
On a final note, don't shoot me for the plastic bags. I too have been woken at 5am by "bag rustlers" in hostel dorms, rustling their bags for what seems like hours. I do NOT do this - any rustling is done before lights out, and the sturdy nature of the bags means they're quieter. Oh, and I did try canvas bags, but they don't slide down into the backpack as nicely. Sue me ;)
Well I've just packed my backpack (I go to India TOMORROW, eeee!) and I thought I'd share my packing tale, because
For long trips where I'll be moving around, I always use my trusty backpack. If I'm staying in one location for the whole trip then my holdall on wheels does the job, but I do love my backpack - his name is Maguire, we've been together since 2002 and he is covered in patches from places I've been.
Maguire is a "top loader" backpack, because he's old. This basically means you can't open it up like a suitcase to neatly arrange your things, which can be
 |
| All lined up on the bed and ready to pack... |
Above you'll see my beach bag and my tops and bottoms carriers! There's also my travel towel (space saving, quick drying genius), my bath bag, make-up bag (only a few bits, for nights out - I prefer natural in the day!), first-aid kit, plug adapter bag, sanitary towels (I take my preferred brand as it isn't always easy to pick them up when away), tissues, a canvas bag for storing laundry, and shoes (espadrilles, nice sandals, day sandals, plastic beach/shower shoes - I'll wear my heaviest, comfy walking shoes on the plane)
I'm not going to go into minute detail about what's in my bath bag, or how many t-shirts I've taken, but I will list my few essential items...
Floaty trousers for keeping cool and covering up when visiting temples etc
A scarf to cover my head at religious sites/when it's too hot!
High concentration deet bug spray
Factor 50 sun cream (not easy to pick up overseas)
Re-hydration sachets
You'll notice that I haven't packed a hairdryer, or straighteners. I did used to be one of those people, but I learned it's much easier just to wash, plait and go! But hey, I'm not judging... if you want to take them, squeeze 'em in! I also don't pack any jewelery - I'll wear stud earrings and a "wear with anything" necklace on the plane, and then pick up irresistible local pieces as I go along.
 |
| All packed up and ready to go! |
On a final note, don't shoot me for the plastic bags. I too have been woken at 5am by "bag rustlers" in hostel dorms, rustling their bags for what seems like hours. I do NOT do this - any rustling is done before lights out, and the sturdy nature of the bags means they're quieter. Oh, and I did try canvas bags, but they don't slide down into the backpack as nicely. Sue me ;)
Sunday, 13 October 2013
Short trips rule, ok
So I'm off to India on Thursday, yay! I'm very excited and now that the packing, printing off reservation confirmations, getting waxed to within an inch of my life and all that has started, it feels much more real.
I'm going for 10 days. We're packing in Delhi, Agra and 2 locations in Goa and it's going to be awesome, I'm sure. Buuuut... man, is it annoying when people ask how long I'm going for and then go, "oh, is that all?" when I say ten days. I'm not stupid, I know ten days isn't a long time, and it would be fab if I could go for longer. However, I have a full time job, and a boyfriend, and rent to pay. So it's ten days or no days, and I know which one I'd prefer!
Short trips are great. Because you know you're only going to be away for a limited time, you make the most of everything and pack in as much as you can. Yeah it's tiring, but it's fun! I did a 3 month trip to Australia at 18, and because those 3 months stretched ahead of me and felt like ages, I spent quite a few days bumming around, not really getting as much out of the trip as I could have. Don't get me wrong, I loved that trip, but had it been a shorter stay I think the feeling of urgency would have meant I'd have made sure I did all of the things I wanted to. There's no, "I can do that another time" when you've got a flight to catch in a week!
If people have longer to spare for their trips then good for them. I love travel and if I could afford the time and money then I would do more. This way works for me right now though, and I don't like people passing judgement on me for it. Staying away long term doesn't make you a better traveller, it just makes you a different one. Difference makes the world go round.
So, I can't wait for my ten day tour of India! Every single day is going to be fantastic, and I am determined to make the most of it and bring back lots of great stories and photos to share. Whistle-stop rules!
I'm going for 10 days. We're packing in Delhi, Agra and 2 locations in Goa and it's going to be awesome, I'm sure. Buuuut... man, is it annoying when people ask how long I'm going for and then go, "oh, is that all?" when I say ten days. I'm not stupid, I know ten days isn't a long time, and it would be fab if I could go for longer. However, I have a full time job, and a boyfriend, and rent to pay. So it's ten days or no days, and I know which one I'd prefer!
Short trips are great. Because you know you're only going to be away for a limited time, you make the most of everything and pack in as much as you can. Yeah it's tiring, but it's fun! I did a 3 month trip to Australia at 18, and because those 3 months stretched ahead of me and felt like ages, I spent quite a few days bumming around, not really getting as much out of the trip as I could have. Don't get me wrong, I loved that trip, but had it been a shorter stay I think the feeling of urgency would have meant I'd have made sure I did all of the things I wanted to. There's no, "I can do that another time" when you've got a flight to catch in a week!
If people have longer to spare for their trips then good for them. I love travel and if I could afford the time and money then I would do more. This way works for me right now though, and I don't like people passing judgement on me for it. Staying away long term doesn't make you a better traveller, it just makes you a different one. Difference makes the world go round.
So, I can't wait for my ten day tour of India! Every single day is going to be fantastic, and I am determined to make the most of it and bring back lots of great stories and photos to share. Whistle-stop rules!
 |
| My short trip to Rome in July was fab. Throw a penny in the Trevi Fountain and it means you''ll return. So a short stay was fine this first time! |
Sunday, 29 September 2013
Budapest and the Sziget Festival
In August I went to my first overseas music festival. I did 5 years of the V festival in Stafford from 2007 to 2011 and decided that was enough for me, and I would not come out of festival "retirement" for love nor money. However, the lure of Sziget in Budapest, Hungary was too much - the combination of a line up including one of my favourite bands Skunk Anansie with the option to hostel rather than camp, in a new country - was too much.
I went to Sziget with my friends Gemma and Dawn. We chose to stay at the Sziget Hostel as it was advertised as being 10 minutes walk from the hostel site and seemed that it would be full of people going to the festival, so we were hoping for a good atmosphere and more comfort that we'd have got in a tent!
Sziget Hostel was fine, but it was a shock! It's only used for festival accommodation for 1 week of the year and the rest of the time it's used as cheap student accommodation. There was a garden but otherwise no real communal areas, and although there was a kitchen there were no pots and pans, plates or cutlery etc and obviously we hadn't brought our own! The lack of air con was horrible in the 40 degree plus heat, and with no option to hire a fan we were permanently sweaty! Communal bathrooms with only 3 out of the 10 showers on our floor having curtains made washing an interesting experience (I didn't anticipate seeing any naked men - or women - that week, but thanks to the showers I certainly did!) and it was definitely the most basic place I've ever stayed... and I've stayed in some basic places in my time!
Despite the shock of the accommodation we were determined to have a great time and as we arrived the day before the festival started we dumped our bags and headed straight into the centre of Budapest for a few welcome drinks. The city was around 15 minutes in a taxi or 40 minutes of walking and getting the train, but as prices are much lower in Hungary we were happy to pay for the journey as well as several beers and a meal!
The next morning we headed over to Sziget island for day 1 of the 5 day festival. It was actually a 20 minute walk so a couple of days out of the five we took a hungover taxi ride instead! Once there, the festival was amazing. As well as the main stage there were several tented arenas, smaller stages and "ruin" bars to dance the night away in. We were there until around 5am most nights, and it was a really fun, laid back, inclusive vibe with all sorts of different people from all over Europe and the world. I was ruined, but it was worth it!
As well as pickling our livers we were determined to see some of Budapest too. We spend several amazing chilled out hours at the Szechenyi Thermal Baths and Spa which was much needed after the excesses of Sziget! We also took an open top bus tour of the city (I LOVE a good open top bus tour!) as we had a festival-free day at the end of our stay. Budapest is a great, beautiful city and I'd definitely go back. I'd go back to Sziget too for sure, but I have the festival bug back and want to do more new ones before that! Next up, Glastonbury (tickets go on sale next Saturday - fingers crossed!)
I went to Sziget with my friends Gemma and Dawn. We chose to stay at the Sziget Hostel as it was advertised as being 10 minutes walk from the hostel site and seemed that it would be full of people going to the festival, so we were hoping for a good atmosphere and more comfort that we'd have got in a tent!
Sziget Hostel was fine, but it was a shock! It's only used for festival accommodation for 1 week of the year and the rest of the time it's used as cheap student accommodation. There was a garden but otherwise no real communal areas, and although there was a kitchen there were no pots and pans, plates or cutlery etc and obviously we hadn't brought our own! The lack of air con was horrible in the 40 degree plus heat, and with no option to hire a fan we were permanently sweaty! Communal bathrooms with only 3 out of the 10 showers on our floor having curtains made washing an interesting experience (I didn't anticipate seeing any naked men - or women - that week, but thanks to the showers I certainly did!) and it was definitely the most basic place I've ever stayed... and I've stayed in some basic places in my time!
Despite the shock of the accommodation we were determined to have a great time and as we arrived the day before the festival started we dumped our bags and headed straight into the centre of Budapest for a few welcome drinks. The city was around 15 minutes in a taxi or 40 minutes of walking and getting the train, but as prices are much lower in Hungary we were happy to pay for the journey as well as several beers and a meal!
The next morning we headed over to Sziget island for day 1 of the 5 day festival. It was actually a 20 minute walk so a couple of days out of the five we took a hungover taxi ride instead! Once there, the festival was amazing. As well as the main stage there were several tented arenas, smaller stages and "ruin" bars to dance the night away in. We were there until around 5am most nights, and it was a really fun, laid back, inclusive vibe with all sorts of different people from all over Europe and the world. I was ruined, but it was worth it!
As well as pickling our livers we were determined to see some of Budapest too. We spend several amazing chilled out hours at the Szechenyi Thermal Baths and Spa which was much needed after the excesses of Sziget! We also took an open top bus tour of the city (I LOVE a good open top bus tour!) as we had a festival-free day at the end of our stay. Budapest is a great, beautiful city and I'd definitely go back. I'd go back to Sziget too for sure, but I have the festival bug back and want to do more new ones before that! Next up, Glastonbury (tickets go on sale next Saturday - fingers crossed!)
Budapest (above) and Sziget (below) highlights!
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