The Talk about Mexico & Greece

Mexico:

1. Drug Cartel
2. Kidnapping
3. Bus Hijacking
4. Robberies
5. Illegal Road Blocks
6. Police Impersonations
7. PickPockets
8. Hurricane Season (June-Nov)

Greece

1. Protests
2. Terrorist Attacks
3. Strikes
4. Overall unrest

So, this is all we have heard from people when we mention our trips. Well, I have to admit that these are the things that are in the news right now, and I am sure all are accurate and based on some kind of fact - somewhere. But, I decided to stay optimistic and maintain some perspective. Yes, it's important to maintain some caution. But, no matter where you look, people are critiquing countries and judging them by their political climate, people, cleanliness, crime, tourist attractions, weather... you name it. And you know what...these judgments are placed on entire countries as if you can classify thousands/millions of people or miles into one group. But, I don't think you can. 

Check out one of the videos I found (very popular) regarding the 10 worst countries to visit. I particularly like #3, since it's where my husband is from.

If you listened to the news and did not travel places that everyone had an opinion on, then you may find yourself missing out on the world's beauty.  Don't miss out. We don't plan to... We are going to Greece and Mexico and plan to have a blast while taking the proper precautions that you should take anywhere you go. Anyway, we have endured protests in Rome, Travel strikes in Venice/Nice, slums and bad hotels in India and rude people in Trinidad. But, that did not stop our amazing experiences. Instead, those things increased our understanding and appreciation for life, as well as gave us great memories and stories that we can take with us. So, here's to some great memories and great times...
See you back in the US.

A lot can happen in a Month

There's just one more week till my sabbatical and I can't help but think about all of the months that go by in a year with more of the same. Not that it's bad, but it is so easy to get caught up in work mode and allow time to pass and before you know it, a month passes and you can't remember what you did.

Well, for my time off, I am determined not to let that happen.

A lot can happen in a month... People have built houses, trained for marathons, traveled the world, discovered new land and civilizations... you name it. Well, I get a month and a week, and it is up to me to make the most of it. Hopefully, this can help me make the most of future months as well, as I am finally starting things that I have always wanted to do. This is just the start...

So here's to time... Having a lot of time all the time, but taking the time sometimes to have the time of your life, so that you can reflect on that time in many years time, and know that you made the most of your time... time.

Peace!