I always wanted to bungee jump until a friend did it and the cord wrapped round his neck. Only his quick reaction saved him from decapitation so I've given up on that one. I think my David and I would be good on that race across the world - I'll talk to anyone which would be useful (some call it being nosey, I call it journalistic curiosity) and D is v practical and even though we bicker we're very good travel companions. I too liked Conclave but - spoiler alert - why did he have to cut the ribbon to go into the Pope's bedroom when he could have just limboed underneath?
This is timely as I have started to re-assess my own comfort levels for travel. I have always found it difficult to be away from home - always - even though I have done so many times. But I was the kid who had to come home early from sleepovers and that kind of anxiety still dances in my chest when I'm in a strange bed in a strange land, at least for the first night or two. I would love to overcome this but with the take-your-breath-away expense of travel now, at this time of my life when I am no longer working it's a big ask. I love the reasons you cite here Wendy! Always an affirming place for me to land xo P.S. I have a chum who said she's really hoping that Stanley Tucci will be the next Pope lol.
Thanks, Sue. I can understand your anxieties and your homebody leanings. There’s a whole world at our fingertips when we are home. The cost and the environmental impact of travel always makes me think twice, too.
In recent years travel has been mainly for family commitments - or funerals (friends‘ funerals have been a sobering reminder that my time isn’t unlimited!). Choir trips have been a delight, though - a lovely mix of familiarity and challenge.
Thanks, Beth. Yes, agree, the adventures OUT of my chair are seared in my memory, so I know it is worth the effort to push ourselves out of our comfort zones.
I have been adventurous in the past and that longing for escape hasn't entirely left me, but I do love home comforts now Wendy. It is good to take on small challenges though as it keeps the brain active, so I'm glad your son took you on a different route.
Conclave is on my list and I totally agree with you about Ralph Fiennes. Have a lovely break and I too will be gong through your archive as there must be one I haven't read. Thank you for your lovely words.
My son, who had a red card in casualty, tried to fly off the shed roof with bin bags for wings. Now he kite-boards .... and lives so far away it costs me days, dollars and double haemorrhoids to reach him. I don't like leaving home much but love it once I have.
I'll have to scour your archive next week, now Wednesdays mean Wendy. Thank you for all you do and are. CC
Argh no! How old was he when he tried to fly with bin bags, Cherry? Double haemorrhoids, haha! You do make me laugh. I seriously think about that when planning any journey. How long do I have to sit down for?! But needs must, when your children are calling.
You are probably one of the few people who has read almost from the start, Cherry (maybe from the very start, not sure!). So very glad to know you here.
I’m finally reading Jennie Godfrey’s The List of Suspicious Things, which you recommended to me last September. Amazing.
Great post! I'm an Adventurer Adventurer with a carveout exemption for leaping from airplanes. Hiking up past the tree line to ski down to Toas, New Mexico and rafting/camping down the Colorado River and through the Grand Canyon have been two of my biggest adventurers!
What amazing experiences, Anne Marie! I’ve visited the Grand Canyon, for the views from the top, but didn’t fancy the rafting! (Overshot the stopping point, the one time I tried kayaking on a relatively benign river in France!)
I think most mums of sons in the country must be thinking "hmmm, I think we could do that". Agree that the scenery - and architecture - are stunning. Presumably whatever diplomatic hiccup that prevented last year's route through China has been overcome. I still think series 1 was the best. Not at all a fan of the "celebrity" (who???) series.
Yes! I wasn’t sure whether they deliberately hopped over China because they knew they’d focus on it this year, or whether there was a diplomatic glitch. But very glad they’re there this year. So interesting.
I prefer the ‘normal people’ to the celebrity version, too, Linda.
People often say I’m brave because I like the challenge of travelling alone in the unknown (to me) . But it’s not brave because I’m not scared of doing it. I feel as I’m home.
I think Race Across the World is one of the best shows on TV - love it. Brings back fond memories of travelling in our late teens/early 20s, especially this series as we’ve been to a few of the places - Sanya was almost unrecognisable!
Same as you, though, not so keen on the thought of long bus journeys etc., these days!
This was a lovely read Wendy. I'm all about living vicariously too. Race Across the World is absolutely perfect TV, but I'd run a mile if someone offered me a chance to go on it!
Ha! Thanks, Lewis. Yes, I momentarily think about how I’d feel about applying for Squid Games, The Traitors, Race Across the World. Then just as quickly rule myself out!
I remember thinking: this is going to be amazing...and then really not enjoying it much. I quite liked it when the parachute opened and we (it was also a tandem) floated down to the landing zone. But never again.
Wonderful. Whenever there is an option to go above ground or below ground, I choose the water. My oldest daughter is a high Adventure sporting daredevil. She got me on a high ropes course once, only once, no thank you I would hike anywhere though all my feet were on the ground.
I just watched conclave last night. What a twist in the end that I was not expecting at all but was happy about it nevertheless. Imagine that and true life.
A great cast of characters. The secrets revealed in high places. Yes it’s the ones who don’t want to be elected that have the humility to do the job properly.
You have a seven year Duolingo streak??? What language? That’s amazing! Thanks for the recommendations too! Oh, and indoor climbing was my little adventure..
Indoor climbing always looks like fun, Ingrid. My Duo streak is even longer, I realised! I started in June 2016 after the Brexit vote in the UK, as a way of doing something pro-European. Started with Spanish, then improved my French, went on to German and Italian and now I do a lesson of each every day, which takes about 20 mins. I‘ve visited Spain and France during those years and definitely understand the languages better, but I’m still a hesitant speaker!
Right there with you on underawarded genius of Conclave and of marvellous Ralph in general. Also staggering how he can morph so effortlessly to the comedy of Wes Anderson. I do surprise myself (and definitely those around me!) by doing something adventurous every now and again … but definitely draw the line at anything that would interfere with a Duo streak! 😂💚
Your son sounds as though he is inspiring company Wendy. There are so many places to visit and learn about, and I’ve been to many of them. My problem is I get fixated on countries and cultures and keep going back to explore more, at the expense of other places.
It’s like books, we only have enough time to see and read so much, so I choose carefully where I spend those travel weeks or months.
Ah, encouraging others outside their comfort zone is a skill! We know our own limits, but we're lucky when someone else knows our potential and takes the time to nudge us towards it.
I always wanted to bungee jump until a friend did it and the cord wrapped round his neck. Only his quick reaction saved him from decapitation so I've given up on that one. I think my David and I would be good on that race across the world - I'll talk to anyone which would be useful (some call it being nosey, I call it journalistic curiosity) and D is v practical and even though we bicker we're very good travel companions. I too liked Conclave but - spoiler alert - why did he have to cut the ribbon to go into the Pope's bedroom when he could have just limboed underneath?
I had a similar thought!
Glad it wasn't just me!
Argh, the bungee jump, Steven. Thank goodness your friend lived to tell the tale.
Oh, you and David should go in for Race Across the World. Sounds like you'd be very watchable!
I think limboing under the ribbon would have been a subterfuge too far! He knew God was watching!
This is timely as I have started to re-assess my own comfort levels for travel. I have always found it difficult to be away from home - always - even though I have done so many times. But I was the kid who had to come home early from sleepovers and that kind of anxiety still dances in my chest when I'm in a strange bed in a strange land, at least for the first night or two. I would love to overcome this but with the take-your-breath-away expense of travel now, at this time of my life when I am no longer working it's a big ask. I love the reasons you cite here Wendy! Always an affirming place for me to land xo P.S. I have a chum who said she's really hoping that Stanley Tucci will be the next Pope lol.
Thanks, Sue. I can understand your anxieties and your homebody leanings. There’s a whole world at our fingertips when we are home. The cost and the environmental impact of travel always makes me think twice, too.
In recent years travel has been mainly for family commitments - or funerals (friends‘ funerals have been a sobering reminder that my time isn’t unlimited!). Choir trips have been a delight, though - a lovely mix of familiarity and challenge.
Armchair adventurer though it’s the ones out of my chair that I remember. What does that say? Loved this post, Wendy!
Thanks, Beth. Yes, agree, the adventures OUT of my chair are seared in my memory, so I know it is worth the effort to push ourselves out of our comfort zones.
I have been adventurous in the past and that longing for escape hasn't entirely left me, but I do love home comforts now Wendy. It is good to take on small challenges though as it keeps the brain active, so I'm glad your son took you on a different route.
Conclave is on my list and I totally agree with you about Ralph Fiennes. Have a lovely break and I too will be gong through your archive as there must be one I haven't read. Thank you for your lovely words.
x
Thanks, Margaret. You are such a supportive and loyal reader. Really appreciate it and love hearing about your own adventures.
Yes, Ralph Fiennes has been nominated three times but never won. What does he have to do?!
I so value people who challenge me and spur me into action. I’d be a blimp without them!
My son, who had a red card in casualty, tried to fly off the shed roof with bin bags for wings. Now he kite-boards .... and lives so far away it costs me days, dollars and double haemorrhoids to reach him. I don't like leaving home much but love it once I have.
I'll have to scour your archive next week, now Wednesdays mean Wendy. Thank you for all you do and are. CC
Argh no! How old was he when he tried to fly with bin bags, Cherry? Double haemorrhoids, haha! You do make me laugh. I seriously think about that when planning any journey. How long do I have to sit down for?! But needs must, when your children are calling.
You are probably one of the few people who has read almost from the start, Cherry (maybe from the very start, not sure!). So very glad to know you here.
I’m finally reading Jennie Godfrey’s The List of Suspicious Things, which you recommended to me last September. Amazing.
He must have been about 4 .... he's still barmy ... 41 miraculously
I am very glad you don't feel I am spam/stalking/a virus ....
Jennie's book rocks - hoping to see her at the Fowey lit fest ...
Great post! I'm an Adventurer Adventurer with a carveout exemption for leaping from airplanes. Hiking up past the tree line to ski down to Toas, New Mexico and rafting/camping down the Colorado River and through the Grand Canyon have been two of my biggest adventurers!
What amazing experiences, Anne Marie! I’ve visited the Grand Canyon, for the views from the top, but didn’t fancy the rafting! (Overshot the stopping point, the one time I tried kayaking on a relatively benign river in France!)
I think most mums of sons in the country must be thinking "hmmm, I think we could do that". Agree that the scenery - and architecture - are stunning. Presumably whatever diplomatic hiccup that prevented last year's route through China has been overcome. I still think series 1 was the best. Not at all a fan of the "celebrity" (who???) series.
Yes! I wasn’t sure whether they deliberately hopped over China because they knew they’d focus on it this year, or whether there was a diplomatic glitch. But very glad they’re there this year. So interesting.
I prefer the ‘normal people’ to the celebrity version, too, Linda.
People often say I’m brave because I like the challenge of travelling alone in the unknown (to me) . But it’s not brave because I’m not scared of doing it. I feel as I’m home.
That’s brilliant to have such an adventurous spirit, Emma. A great way to keep making memories.
I think Race Across the World is one of the best shows on TV - love it. Brings back fond memories of travelling in our late teens/early 20s, especially this series as we’ve been to a few of the places - Sanya was almost unrecognisable!
Same as you, though, not so keen on the thought of long bus journeys etc., these days!
Thanks for the shoutout too, Wendy!
Thanks, Andy. I’ve made it to rural Wales this w/e and that took longer than some of those Race Across the World coaches!
I’m loving the route they’re taking in this year’s RATW. China landscape is astonishing.
This was a lovely read Wendy. I'm all about living vicariously too. Race Across the World is absolutely perfect TV, but I'd run a mile if someone offered me a chance to go on it!
Ha! Thanks, Lewis. Yes, I momentarily think about how I’d feel about applying for Squid Games, The Traitors, Race Across the World. Then just as quickly rule myself out!
I am a bit of a shrinking violet, like yourself, but I have skydiver: it was terrifying, and not in a good way.
I remember my sister doing a tandem skydive for charity and passing out momentarily. Lucky it wasn’t solo! Put me right off.
I remember thinking: this is going to be amazing...and then really not enjoying it much. I quite liked it when the parachute opened and we (it was also a tandem) floated down to the landing zone. But never again.
Wonderful. Whenever there is an option to go above ground or below ground, I choose the water. My oldest daughter is a high Adventure sporting daredevil. She got me on a high ropes course once, only once, no thank you I would hike anywhere though all my feet were on the ground.
I just watched conclave last night. What a twist in the end that I was not expecting at all but was happy about it nevertheless. Imagine that and true life.
A great cast of characters. The secrets revealed in high places. Yes it’s the ones who don’t want to be elected that have the humility to do the job properly.
‘To sin, forgive and carry on.’
💙🌹💙 have a lovely week.
Thanks, Prajna. Yes, I’m not religious but loved that film. So compelling.
Good on your daughter for being a daredevil!
You have a seven year Duolingo streak??? What language? That’s amazing! Thanks for the recommendations too! Oh, and indoor climbing was my little adventure..
Indoor climbing always looks like fun, Ingrid. My Duo streak is even longer, I realised! I started in June 2016 after the Brexit vote in the UK, as a way of doing something pro-European. Started with Spanish, then improved my French, went on to German and Italian and now I do a lesson of each every day, which takes about 20 mins. I‘ve visited Spain and France during those years and definitely understand the languages better, but I’m still a hesitant speaker!
Try Coffee Break Languages - imho much better than Duolingo. Some Duolingo stuff is grammatically wrong!!! (Modern language graduate here 😅)
I’ll have a look, thanks for the tip.
Right there with you on underawarded genius of Conclave and of marvellous Ralph in general. Also staggering how he can morph so effortlessly to the comedy of Wes Anderson. I do surprise myself (and definitely those around me!) by doing something adventurous every now and again … but definitely draw the line at anything that would interfere with a Duo streak! 😂💚
Yes! Fans of Ralph unite! Did you see The Forgiven? It flew under the radar but it’s a terrific, tense movie.
What language/s are you learning on Duolingo? I am so beholden to the The Owl! Love it.
Your son sounds as though he is inspiring company Wendy. There are so many places to visit and learn about, and I’ve been to many of them. My problem is I get fixated on countries and cultures and keep going back to explore more, at the expense of other places.
It’s like books, we only have enough time to see and read so much, so I choose carefully where I spend those travel weeks or months.
Thanks, Lisa. He is inspiring company and I learn a lot from him.
Going deep on countries and cultures is wonderful. So often, travel is superficial. Your approach sounds really rewarding.
Ah, encouraging others outside their comfort zone is a skill! We know our own limits, but we're lucky when someone else knows our potential and takes the time to nudge us towards it.
So true. It is a skill! I love being around people who look for the positives and the potential and provide the nudge!