Making a List & Checking it Twice

Before kids, Mike and I spent 4 months travelling the globe on cheap round the world STA travel tickets. This trip it will be for a fraction of that time and with three more travel companions. We will be visiting Paris, Switzerland and Italy. We managed to write a diary every few days all those years ago. One that we still pull out occasionally (especially lately). I suggested that the kids write a diary and Isla thinks she will give it a crack. I will write one too, from my perspective. I have no idea if we will be able to keep the diary up this time. After all, we have never backpacked with 3 children that we need to keep alive and in one piece (no more broken bones please). My Dad has shared his little iPad keyboard with me, and the kids assure me I will be able to use it easily! Follow along if you are keen. If not, we won’t be offended.

We are on the home stretch for our trip now. We have spent the weekend packing because the school/work week ahead will be hectic as always. I have resorted to writing long lists each day and ticking off things that have been achieved and then adding a whole new bunch of things on there. I love a list; it is the teacher in me.

We are all working hard with Isla to get her arm functioning a little better before we leave. By the time we go she will be 11 weeks post break. We are working closely with an OT so that Isla can hold someone's hand as we

step on and off trains or navigate busy streets. We want her to be able to use cutlery again confidently, use a bathroom unassisted and the big one, we want her to be pain free. She also wants to do a cartwheel. Priorities, right?

The last time Mike and I went to Europe backpacking, we literally ripped out chapters of Lonely Planet book and off we went. We did not have phones, just tiny maps. How lucky to have been part of the last generation of people backpacking that way. This time it is different. I wonder if Europe has changed much. We certainly have. Will we still find Europe on a shoestring beautiful? Maybe we had romanticized our memories of living out of a backpack in budget accommodation? Will I be horrified this time? Bouncing around on trains and buses last time was stress free and so was getting lost every day. Will 3 children who are used to hotel buffet breakfasts, aircon and fast internet be able to see the magic?

Stay tuned and wish us luck. Although I know we are already lucky to have this opportunity. I'm truly thankful every day. Let's do this!