San Diego

My last port of call in the USA, prior to flying out to OZ, and home near Cairns, via Sydney, where I made a quick stop-over to visit my daughter, was San Diego. Here I had the privilege and joy of spending a few days with James and Jera, whom I had met on my previous visit. They lived in a semi-rural area, about an hours drive from the city on the family estate.

Before we travelled to their home we spent an hour or so on the beach- front, having a picnic lunch in a very natural way sitting on the rocks. It was a most pleasant experience, to say the least, and one which could not have been better chosen.

I must, once again, have had a slack attack with my photography, as their organic vegetable garden missed out on being photographed for me to be able to share it with you.





Nevertheless I did photograph the large pond, or dam, which is on the property, and from which the water is drawnto water their garden and trees. Preferring to not walk along the roads which did not have foot-paths, each day I made it my business to enjoy the dam and its environs by briskly walking around it several times. I am not sure of the distance covered, but found that I could circumnavigate it at least 16 times in an hour.


We visited several pot-lucks as we toured the local district informing those who attended of my up and coming lecture.
















All of them were held in delightful garden settings, and although the sun was shining, the weather was still quite cool.




On my last day, James, Jera, and I hiked up a nearby hill to their home which provided an extensive panoramic view of the surrounding country-side. From memory, I believe it took us just over an hour to reach the top-most point.





As can be seen, the country, without water, is quite dry with low lying bushy cover. When water is supplied it blooms, growing a wide range of fruits and vegetables, including some sub-tropical ones.


I for one, am eternally grateful to James and Jera for inviting into their home and giving me the opportunity of sharing their thoughts, feelings and dreams, with me.

Houston, Texas

After attending the church service, followed by the pot-luck luncheon in Hot Springs, Janis, Her sister Sheila, and I set off to travel to Houston, to eventually arrive at our host Anna's and her husband Eric's. Their home is in what I would term as an exquisite setting for an urban home, called most appropriately Woodlands.




The generosity of Anna and Eric in hosting our annual gatherings, with the amount of time and energy involved, is indeed most generous. And all who are involved are truly thankful for their kindness in enabling it to ocur. Thank you Anna and Eric.





As with most of my lectures, those in Houston were no exception, with most commencing with a pot-luck meal.






A wide range of fruits and vegetables were available to us through farmers markets with much of the produce coming from Mexico. The range, and quality available, in my opinion, was far greater, and better than in the local super markets.





This is the venue for one of the lectures at a public library in the city of Houston. It was very well set up with overhead projector, and other facilities, etc.






Not all was work. One of the days we took the opportunity of enjoying the sunshine and having a walk and a picnic lunch on the river bank. The river is an artificial one running through the city centre, and has been very tastefully landscaped with the surounding area being a most pleasant and attractive environment.



Even though it was an artificial environment, the tortoises had made their homes there, and fish were also evident.






Mamiko is an old friend of many years standing who is an author and translator living in Houston, and travelling frequently to Japan to give lectures on Natural Hygiene, and promote her books. She is also host to the local Natural Hygiene Society, which it is my privilege to address each year.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

On our way back to Wilmington to catch the Amtrak train back to New York, and stay overnight, prior to flying out to Hot Springs, the next piece of drama occurred. We had left Chestertown with adequate time, as we had thought, given the usual traffic conditions during the late morning, to arrival in a comfortable time. When, lo and behold, we experienced a major traffic hold up on the freeway, with bumper to bumper traffic crawling along, at a stop-start pace. Needless to say the time for the departure of the train began to creep up very quickly, and it almost seemed at one stage that we just might not make it. As with all cliff hanging adventures in the films, we just made it, with minutes to spare.

The hotel which I was booked into in Manhattan, New York, was so new that even the taxi driver commented on the fact that it was the first time that he had been there and had not known of it previously. I found it on the internet. It would appear that many others had too, as it seemed to be extremely busy with guests coming and going. The staff also appeared to be still learning how it all functioned.

Previously I have stayed at a small boutique hotel near Chinatown, which was well situated for my purposes, except that there was no lift. And dragging one's luggage up and down steep flights of stairs was a bit of a problem, given that mine always tends to be in the overweight category. So this new venue with its lift, was more than acceptable.

The flight to Arkansas was un-eventful, with my host Janis' husband awaiting me to transport me to their delightful home in a most beautiful semi-rural setting, where I was most graciously received for the one night I was to spend there, deliver a lecture, and then drive eight hours or so to Houston in Texas.





Here are some of the enthusiastic group that attended my lecture in Hot Springs.






The building on the left is the new church and the one on the right the 100+ year, old one. And it was in the old one that we attended a service on the Sunday morning prior to to driving to Houston. This was a most delightful experience with all singing being acapella. It was followed by a pot-luck luncheon which was a wonderful way, so I felt, to round out a most pleasant and happy experience. I sincerely thank Janis, her husband, and family for giving me the opportunity of sharing this experience and time with them.

Chestertown, Maryland

By taking an early morning flight to NY, it enabled me to then catch the Amtrak train to Wilmington where my friend and host Wayne was awaiting my arrival to transport me the hour and a half or so's drive to Chestertown.

This photo shows Wayne(tallest) with his partner(no not the dog), and some of the others whom I met and attended my lecture during my last visit, and who kindly came again this time.

Wayne stayed on the farm some 30 odd years ago, and we have remained friends ever since. He is the Inn keeper of the White Swan Tavern, an historical landmark in Chestertown.










I lifted the following description from their website:

History of the Inn

The White Swan Tavern has been a familiar landmark in Chestertown since pre-Revolutionary War days. Not far from the great Eastern cities, it is an unexpectedly quiet, elegant place nestled in the history of Maryland's Eastern Shore. The White Swan is for those who treasure serene streets, birdsong mornings, impeccable service, and the grace of New World Tradition.

The restoration of the White Swan Tavern began in 1978 with an archeological dig. Evidence uncovered indicated that the site was used prior to 1733 as a tannery, operated by the shoemaker of Chestertown, John Lovegrove. His one-room dwelling, now converted into one of our six period guest rooms as the Lovegrove Kitchen, was the first building constructed on the lot.

Joseph Nicholson purchased the property from Lovegrove in 1733, and built his home on the location which comprises the front portion of the present structure. As a member of the Committee of Correspondence, Nicholson had a very real role in the revolution and emergence of the young Republic. He was influential in the founding of Chestertown's Washington College in 1782, the tenth oldest liberal arts college in the nation.

In 1793, the property passed to John Bordley, who enlarged the residence to accommodate the demands of tavern use. The charm of the present structure is due largely to Bordley's efforts.

Between 1803 and 1853, the property was operated as a tavern by various owners and innkeepers, the most notable of whom was the Reverend William H. Wilmer, then pastor of St. Paul's church, Alexandria, Virginia. The Reverend Wilmer was also the rector of Bruton Parish Church in Williamsburg, Virginia and president of the College of William & Mary.

"...[T]he best tavern in town" was up for sale in 1853, and purchased by Thomas W. Eliason, a merchant in everything from clothing to lumber.

In 1978, the property was impeccably restored to its 1793 appearance in Bordley's time, with one room devoted to the display of many artifacts found on the site. During the entire process of restoration, the owners acquired pieces of furniture, both antique and reproduction, which they thought appropriate to the building. The two front rooms were furnished using the two known historic inventories as guides. The remainder of the building was furnished with the ideals of simplicity and comfort in mind.

Through painstaking analysis, the original paint color was reproduced for the wall paneling and trim. Even the contemporary stoneware dishes were modeled on a set of early chargers recovered from the tavern site. The rooms are named after the various owners of this historic building.

In March of 1981, after three years and five months preparation, The White Swan Tavern opened its doors to the public again. Today the tavern operates as a bed and breakfast, offering accommodations and afternoon tea, as well as amenities for small conferences, weddings, and receptions. Just as it was described in the 18th century, the White Swan remains "a comfortable... Public House... with every attention given to render comfort and pleasure to such as favor it with their patronage."

Contact the White Swan for more information.

Chestertown was founded in 1706 as a trading town and is situated on the banks of the Chester River. It has remained little changed for the last two hundred years.


Most of the traffic passing through Chestertown these days is by road, and even this is quite limited, it not being situated on any of the main highways. And the river traffic as almost non-existent, with most being of a holiday or private nature.




Around the older part of the town, there are to be seen many older and elegant homes of a time long past






These are a couple of old claboard houses which have been boarded up awaiting restoration.







This large old building which was originally a corn milll is being restored as a modern office complex. Quite a challenge and very innovatively done


This old barn has been fully restored, and with the old carriages as a part of it, is now the museum.












Washington College, established in 1782 on a very beautiful campus is on the outskirts of the old town, and walking past it is just like taking a gigantic step in time, from the 18th century, into the 21st century. Quite a contrast, as I am sure you are well aware, and, if not, almost a shock to the psyche. The first is quiet and gentle, full of fragrance, and what I would describe as old world friendliness.

The latter is brash and harsh, filled with noise and disruption and lack of harmony

Cleveland

From Toledo I continued on my westward journey to Cleveland and the friendly presence and home of Helen and John who were my most gracious hosts. They lived in a very beautiful rural setting of small acreage holdings in the midst of large corn growing farms. I could not have chosen amore harmonious environment if I had tried.



Their lovingly tended organic garden was a delight to see, and one which I would have been truly proud to have in my back-yard.





Whenever possible advantage was taken of the sunny days to eat outside sitting on the ground to do so. Thus at the same time gaining the benefit of the terrestial radiations, and the solar radiations to enhance those of the (mostly), home, and organically grown food being consumed.




Still in use are some of the old barns and silos for the storing of the corn harvested on the surrounding farms.





During my time with Helen and John we were fortunate to be able to find the time in between my lectures to attend a concert by the Cleveland Chamber Orchestra and Choir.






Upon our arrival we thought there would only be a few attending, not realising that we in fact were quite early and were observing a pre-presentation rehearsal. By the time that the actual concert commenced, there was not a spare seat in the auditorium.

Thank you Helen and John.

Toledo

And thence to Toledo. As I much prefer to travel overland than by air, and finding that I could do so by train without it taking up too much time, as well as being at an acceptable time, travelled from Chicago to Toledo by Amtrak. I left Chicago in the early evening around 7pm and arrived in Toledo at 11.30pm local time. In fact I had not allowed for the time change and it was actually 10.30pm Chicago time, which resulted in my thinking we had another hour to travel, when in actuality we had arrived. And my friend Bob, was there to meet me as promised.

Although Bob lived within the local urban area, it almost was semi-rural, being surounded by large treed and grassed areas, adjacent to the local University. It enabled him also to have an area for the growing of his own vegetables which, with the winter having just passed, was still in its very early stages, and not yet fully producing.


On each of the days that I was with Bob, he had most graciously arranged a lecture for me in the surrounding towns. And of course there always are a few glitches that occur with such an undertaking, especially when the lectures include PowerPoint presentations, which mine did. On one occasion we found that the only method available was through a DVD player and TV. With the assitance of Bob's expertise in these matters were able to do this after he had spent a number of hours transferring my lecture to a compatable DVD.

Most if not all, the lectures commenced with a pot-luck, which, for those not in the know, consists of each person bringing a plate of their favourite raw food dish which every-one then savours. A really great idea for spreading different methods, and thoughts on food preparation, as well as not costing an arm and a leg for any-one.




The usual request was that I pose with the proferred food to prove that at least I had been there.






And so it continued through the in the seven or so presentations that I made in the surrounding townships of Toledo.









By now you must be heartily tired of viewing pot-lucks.








Eventually the time came when I must again move on, and for those who can recall the delightful technicolour travelogues of Fitzpatrick which always ended with the ship sailing into the sunset and the spoken words" Once again we say farewell to the fine city of (name of city)." Which in this instance would be Toledo. And to wish me a fond farewell and safe journey, was Bob and his parents.

I heartily enjoyed the very brief time I was able to spend with Bob's parents, and feel greatly blessed for having the opportunity of meeting with them. And I do sincerely thank you Bob for all the great effort you put into making such a success of my visit to Toledo.

Chicago

Actually I have varied my presentation with regards to sequence in which they occurred, author's licence, so I have been told. In fact it occurred inadvertantly, so feel sure you will bear with me in-so-far as I visited the IOM prior to the Conference, and not afterwards, as I have portrayed it.

After the Conference one of those glitches we appear to occur from time to time when travelling happened. I had intended to spend time with my friend David, prior to flying out to Chicago. And although we carefully compared notes and dates, somehow the days became mixed up, and the very day I was to spend with David turned out to be the day I was flying out. We were both greatly disappointed by this turn of events. So on to Chicago and another comedy of errors.


No this is not the hotel in which I was staying. This photo is of the statues to be seen along one of the main boulevards, portraying the arrival of the early settlers. It is of interest to note that in 1900, 90% of the population was agrarian, living on farms and small holdings. Today 90% of the population is urbanised with the remaining ten percent living on farms.


On my arrival at the hotel which I felt sure I had made a booking on-line for, you can imagine my surprise to be told that this was not so. Suffice it to say, they were able to supply me with the necessary accomodation - fortunately.
The next disconcerting episode concerned the telephone as each time I phoned the lady with whom I was to stay, just as we commenced our conversation it would drop out. After many tries on both our parts we eventually were able to have a continual line, only to find that her answering service kept on cycling so that we were unable to have a continual conversation.
Eventually I received the message that her husband would pick me up at 6.30am the next morning. At 6.30 am he arrived to pick me up - yet reception failed to inform me, so that eventually he went on his way thinking I must have slept in, or some such thing.
In due course I contacted reception to try and ascertain what had occurred, and received the information of his arrival and subsequent departure. Then commenced another series of phone calls with the ongoing problem of the answering machine still un-resolved.
The instructions on how to catch a train eventually filtered through, so off I set to do so. Upon arrival at the station I was rather surprised at the rather old-world set up, more in line with the early 1900's, or even late 1800's, than the 21st century.
The waiting area was in a cavern like area in semi-darkness where one waited till about twenty minutes prior to the departure time when the gate was then opened, enabling the passengers to enter the platform, and be designated the carriage in which you were to travel by the conductor.
So far so good. Except at the head of the platform there was a list of the stations at which it was to stop, and the station listed before the one to which I was travelling was listed as after as I read it. I feel sure you can image what happened next. Yes I travelled past my station.
One of the other travellers took pity upon me and allowed me to use his mobile phone to inform my friend that I would be up to an hour and a half later than expected, due to this error of mine.


The next couple of days were spent in the very pleasant company of my friends and their two sons, sharing my knowledge and assisting in the establishment of their organic vegetable garden.

IOM

Once again I took the opportunity whilst in the UK of dropping over to the Isle of Man to visit with my good friend Jane and her partner Rob, and share in their efforts, as they dig up their lawn and establish an organic vegetable garden.




As can well be observed, they are endeavouring to include aesthetically pleasing design into their gardens,by way of a circular plot, as well as the practical aspect of providing the necessary produce to feed themselves. In fact feeding the soul, and at the same time as the body.



A recent e-mail has confirmed that their efforts have been eminently successful, and they are now able to enjoy the benefits of their efforts.

UK

After spending time in London and Darlington, demonstrating and sharing my skills as an organic gardener, having inadvertantly forgotten to take any photos to share with you this will appear to have been a rather abbreviated visit. The time spent in London and Darlington was indeed most enjoyable in spite of the cold weather and often raining periods. As I may well have mentioned on previous occasions, these episodes make me appreciate, more and more, the climatic conditions under which I live. And in spite of the fact that I live in the tropics, it is well to bear in mind that during our winter months, or the dry season as it is referred to locally, and living in the mountains, our overnight temperatures, on occasion, drop below zero.

And so, on to York and the ISRN Conference for 09. This was held, by kind permission, in the Natural Health clinic of Annette and Alison. And as this must have caused them quite a deal of inconvenience and disruption to their daily activities, was supplied most graciously and with good-will.


Here we have some of the partcipants at the Conference. I was unable to stand far enough back to encompass all who attended.






As well as supplying the physical needs of the Conference, Annette and Alison had taken on the huge task of providing all the food that was to be consumed by the partcipants.





And what a gastronomic delight it was. They are to be commended for their efforts, the out-come being as good as, if not better than would be supplied by any better class restaurant.




This pictorial presentation is of some of the dishes that were so lovingly presented and supplied for our consumtion.





As can be well seen, not all the dishes supplied are raw - this group being vegetarian, and whilst believing in the necessity of a high percentage of raw food in the diet, do not feel it necessary for it to be 100%













It can readily be observed the amount of work that was involved in the preparation, and presentation of these most attractive, physically satisfying dishes, and I would again wish to thank Annette and Alison for all the effort this entailed and commend them for a job well done. And how important and necessary it was, and is, for the success of the Conference.


As a closing ambit to my visit, and to improve my knowledge of the local history, my good friend Lesley very kindly conducted me on a tour of one of the abandoned local monasteries. The architecture, and skill of workmanship in the buildings is superb, especially so considering the era in which it was constructed.




There have been many times when I have been visiting these ruins that I have thought how it would have been to see them in their hey-day. Considering the local climatic conditions, the lack of heating, the stone floors, etc., I could not imagine them as being easy to live in. Yet prosper they did in their day, being self-supporting with their gardens, orchards, and flocks of sheep. That is until such time as King Henry VIII dis-established them in 1538.

Copenhagen - Denmark Part 3

And now to Part 3. Remniscent of the guards at Buckingham Palace in the UK, is this man with his Busby guarding the Royal Palace in Copenhagen.





With such a proliferation of bicycles, I suppose it was only to be expected that there would also be pedi-cabs. And whereas, in other countries and in warmer climes this mode of transportation would always have a hood to protect the passenger(s) from the elements, those to be seen here were open to catch whatever sunlight might happen to grace the day.



The horsedrawn carriage is also to be found in most of the larger cities being ever poular for a most relaxed way of touring the city and seeing the sights. As can be seen, this one was driven by a lady.




Street theatre with its human statues is another form which is to be observed far and wide today.







Another of the impressions that Copenhagen made upon me was the proliferation of churches many of them being quite elaborate structures, such as the one portrayed here.






The interior of some of the churches was quite plain alongside many that I have seen. Yet as can be seen here, they are far from being plain. And whereas in many instances some ineriors have been dark and mausoleum like, this particular one had a lightness and warmth immediately felt upon entering.



This was the first time that I had seen an organ which had stainless steel pipes.Perhaps others have also been so and had been painted to appear otherwise.






This view shows the spires of at least six churches, and was taken from the top of the Round Tower.









And this view taken from the same vantage point and a little further around can be seen at least another seven church spires.





The Round Tower was built on the initiative of King Christian IV (1588-16480). The architect was Hans Steenwinckel the Younger, and was completed in 1642. The Tower was the first stage of the Trinitatis complex with the other two stages being, a student's church, and a University library.




The spiral walk is unique in European architecture. The 209m long spiral ramp turns round the hollow core of the towerforming the only connection between the individual parts of the building.





The last few metres to the platform at the top of the tower is by way of a short staircase. The beautiful wrought iron lattice which runs around the edge of the platform was made in 1643 by Kasper Fincke, Court Artist in metalwork. In the lattice-work Christian IV's monogram and the letters RFP, the Kings motto: Regina,Firmat,Pieta - Piety strengthens the Realms.

The Round Tower is the oldest functioning observatory in Europe. It was used by the University of Copenhagen until 1861. Today any-one can observe the night sky through the astronomical telescope of the tower in the winter period.

The library hall was used as a university library from 1657 to 1861. In 1987 the hall was re-opened after restoration and th 900m square room now serves for exhibition of art, culture, history, and science.

There are many canals for shipping in the city dating back to the very early days when ships were much smaller than todays behemoths. Today they are primarily used by small yachts and fishing vessels, as well as for tourist activity. In most instances they are to be found as part of the social scene, being often lined with cafes offering out-door eating on sunny days in pleasant surroundings.

Sight-seeing ferries were available to take you round the harbour with most being covered in. Yet, as can be seen here, not all were. And it would take a hardy tourist to brave such conditions on the day this photo was taken being bitterly cold with a fresh breeze blowing, as can be verified by the flags flying on the wharf.




One of the last things I observed prior to leaving, was this protest in one of the cities squares. I approached one of the lady's involved for a translation and explanation. The response I received made no sense to me whatso-ever, so I must leave it to your imagination to decide what it was all about.



My last impression, and involvement in, was the offer of, and participation in, Free Hugs. A most delightful departing gift which I would like to share with the readers of this blog

Copenhagen - Denmark Part 2

It was my original intention to continue with this presentation of my visit to Copenhagen on the earlier posting. Having viewed what I have already written, and seen that it may take more time to read than most have available at one time, decided to divide it into two - or perhaps even more for easier reading and viewing. Herewith the second part.

And what better way to commence with than the photo of the swan nesting at the edge of the lake. And thence to the flowering trees.

The first signs of spring, new life, and all the promise that goes with it. A new beginning, and the possibility of bigger and better things to come. Hope springs eternal(pun intended).





In this next section I wish to share with you some of the many and varied fountains, statues, and sculptures that seemed to abound in thi beautiful city of Copenhagen. This will constitute primarily a pictorial journey with few, if any comments by myself.

Copenhagen - Denmark

After leaving Austria, and the Tyrollean mountains, I then flew to Copenhagen in Denmark. Imagine my surprise to find that Denmark, along with a few other countries, such as the UK, although a member of the European Common Market, was a monarchy, and still retained its own currency, requiring that I had to change my euro's into the local currency. Although the weather continued to be bitterly cold - by my standards at least - it was not raining, and the sun was shining, albeit without imparting a great deal of warmth.

My first overall impressionwas the proliferation of bicycles on Copenhagen roads. Many were ridden by people in their business suits, and not restricted to the workers alone.




A common sight was the three wheeler, which, by law had to be fitted with an adequate braking system to ensure its safety. Most,if not all, that I saw were fitted out with adequate protection from inclement weather conditions. Every-one, including the children being transported in this way, appeared to enjoying themselves - in spite of the cold. And they were all rugged up with cold weather clothing,scarves, etc. as was I also.

Not only mothers and fathers were involved with the transporting of their children, even the grandparents became involved, presumably baby-sitting whilst the parents attended their place of business.




In this instance the local kindergarten was unable to cope with the number of children placed in their care, with many being bussed to other facilities in the surrounding country-side. The children, along with the parents, appeared to be very happy with this arrangement, with smiles from both sides as the children drove off. I must admit too, that nowhere else that I have travelled, have I seen so many children


Another of the common sights, along with the bicycles, were the roadside cafes. As the weather was so sunny they were heavily patronised.









Everywhere I walked, there were to be found bikes. A lesson which we can all learn from, I feel sure. One predisposing factor being that the country is basically flat. I am not sure how bicyclists would fare in such cities as San Francisco with its steep hills.




This old world public toilet was the only one, and of course, the only one of its type, I found in Copenhagen. Interestingly it only provided facilities for the male population.





At the time that I was there - the middle of April, the trees were just commening to bud and flower, it being early Spring. The flowering of the first Tulips, brightened what was a rather monotone landscape, adding delightful colour to an otherwise grey scene.




It was indeed a delight to see the buskers out on the streets in spite of the coldness of the weather. I love to see them and if at all possible encourage their efforts by donations,and by purchasing their CD's, if they have recorded any.





There were a great many to be seen and heard, playing a great range of instruments.







Almost every type of musi was being played and represented, from classical to country and western.







Some devoted themselves to wearing colourful clothing to enhance their presentation by drawing attention to themslves.







And, of course, although the majority of the buskers were males, now and again I was able to find the feminine members represented.






This couple were giving such a beautiful rendition of the classical music they were playing, that I made a particular effort to enquire about a CD, as none were on display. They informed me that sadly their whole day was taken up earning eanough money to keep body and soul together, so they had no time, or perhapsd money, to make recordings.



All the buskers I have portrayed here were to be seen in an around Copenhagen in one day.

Austria Part 2

Electronics has its moments, and computers, their programmes and software can present interesting challenges. And this is one of them. After commencing my last posting I was unable to continue and place the text between the photos. So here I am trying again in a totally new window, and we shall see what happens this time.

In this view I am standing at the foot of the mountains and in the background is the area for the beginning skiers to practice on.





In this next view, I am standing in fron of one of the ski shops in the village. As can well be seen, I am having to shade my eyes against the glare reflected off the snow.



The ski lifts are a major part of the skiing scene, for without them it would take all day, or even many days to reach the top of the mountain, or access the many ski slopes.

Here is to be seen the crowds of people as they await boarding of the ski lift. We were very fortunate in being able to board first, ahead of the hordes, due to the kindness of the attendants.




In all there were three lifts to take us to the top of the mountain. And although the numbers dwindled somewhat as we progressed, there were still long lies waiting to board.






This is looking back down towards the base camp at the village.







Here can be seen some of the skiers coming down one of the lesser slopes. And although it may well be seen as a lesser slope to the experts, for the amatuers, it was still quite a challenge.





And here is one of those more challenging spots where you seem to literally drop over the side of the mountain.





The mountain top at last. I must admit it was cold. I was so pleased that there was no wind blowing on that day, for the chill factor would have been horrendous.



And here is to be seen the actual top of the mountain.




My friend Trudy standing in front of the illustrated directions, naming the surrounding mountain peaks that can be seen in the background.






This is the main street in the ski village. It can well be observed that it was not designed for present day traffic, with its large pantechnicons and tourist buses.





A few of the people who attended my lecture.






This is a typical Tyrolean farmhouse. The wooden section at the rear of the house is the barn in which the animals are housed during the winter months. During the summer months they are taken to the mountains where the shepherds live in huts on the mountainside.




This is a typical Tyrollean home. Unfortunately, with the high cost of building these days, many of the new homes are using more modern designs, and appear quite alien in this atmosphere.

Austria

My very good friends in Slovenia made the very kind offer to drive me to my next venue in Austria, which I gladly accepted, for it presented quite an interesting situation, transport wise, to enable me to access the village which I was staying in. The whole logistics of it were quite something. And upon arrival at the village, what we felt would be quite straight forward instructions, we found to be otherwise. The street naming and numbering was very confusing, to say the least, and even the locals took some time to decipher where we wished to go. Fortunately my friend was keeping an eye out for us, or we may still be looking. And this was one of the few occasions that I have been thankful for mobile phones.
This is an early morning view of the Tyrol mountains from the village, and here also is the first viewing of the mountains as we crossed the bored from Slovenia into Austria.

Slovenia

My next port of call after leaving Frankfurt in Germany, was Ljublana, and then to Idrija where my very good friends Don and Jana were to be my hosts.Here we are on a previous occasion enjoying one of our raw food meals in a delightful out-door setting.



Slovenia is a delightful country with some very high mountains in the north, and picturesque scenery filled with traditional houses, being still very rural, and somewhat old-worldish not having long been a part of the EU. It is only recently that they have moved out of communism.The southern part of the country is much flatter, with undulating plains.

The changes that have occurred in the brief period of time that I have been visiting appear to have been quite phenomenal, with the opening of supermarkets, and the adoption more free economy. What has been most noticeable has been the increased traffic, especially the large semi-trailers carrying goods and produce from other parts of the EU. Most of the roads are still quite narrow, and particularly in the townships, it can be quite hazardous.

Although English is taught in the schools as a second language, and many are somewhat fluent in English, it is usual to use a translator.

This is Jana at one of my illustrated PowerPoint presentations, acting as my interpreter. And to say the least, she is extremely competent.

Frankfurt

Imagine my surprise, when upon arriving at the air-port in Sri Lank to depart for my destination, Chennai, in India, to be asked for a visa, this being the first time I had ever heard that I required to have a visa to enter India. Not having one, nor the time to acquire one, as this process required five days, so I was informed, after attending the Indian Consulate, I then commenced to look at the alternatives available. On a previous occasion I had travelled from Colombo to Frankfurt via Chennai, and not required a visa as this was only to transfer from one flight to another. So I duly enquired if this could be arranged, only to be informed that it was not possible, and was even shown a printed document to this effect.

The only option that appeared to then be viable was to purchase another sector directly from Colombo to Frankfurt, to connect up with the next leg of my journey to Ljublana, in Slovenia. This necessitated a further two nights in Colombo, followed by an overnight stay in Franfurt, involving a considerable expenditure of funds, which was necessary, for me to proceed with my journey. Fortunately I was able to manage this - only just. So inadvertantly, I was able to spend a short period of time in Frankfurt, and thus expand my knowledge of this part of Germany.

With my interest in music, and classical music in particular, I of course, made it my business to view the available venues amongst which was the local Opera House. I had expected to find a rather historical building in the style of the Vienna Opera House, and was rather suprise to find that it was this glass fronted, modernistic building instead.




This being a Sunday, private sellers of seconhand books, and a few other items were taking advantage of this popular promenade to exhibit their wares. Many appeared to collectors items, not being fluent in the German language, they were of little interest and value to, and for, me.



The modern, air-conditioned, and extremely quiet, trams as we, and those in Europe and the UK know them, and trolleys, as they are called in the US, although today they are being referred to more and more, as "light rail", provide comfortable, safe and speedy, transport right to the front door of the Opera House.





The paved city square with an open air cafe in the foreground, and the church with its medieval architecture in the background, is a common scen of many of the cities of Europe.






Fountains are also to be found extensively in the cities of Europe. Their commonality, far from breading boredom, no two being the same, lift the spirit, and portray a more rustic presence amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.






A further example of the medieval architectural heritage still abounding in Frankfurt and other cites of both Germany and the rest of Europe.






A statue of one of the many medieval Kings that reigned over one of the German states, as they were at an earlier time in history.






With coming of a clear sunny day, although it was still extremely cold, bringing the possibility of more clients than if it had been otherwise, such as overcast and raining, the river ferries were awakening from their nights slumber, and preparing for what promised to bea bountiful day ahead.



And even at this early hour, many were up an about as can be seen on this bridge which at an earlier time was used by motor traffic. It was no closed to them, and now is used purely as a foot-bridge, replete with busker playing numbers from Operetta.

Sri Lanka

After leaving Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, having nearly missed my flight due to a mix up as to which airport my flight was to depart from, with fortunately enough time to transfer to the right one, being my usual early self, I duly arrived in Sri Lanka to find a major military presence. This was due, so I was told, to security measures required from recent military activity by the Tamil's. Fortunately it did not impinge upon me greatly, the restrictions upon travel being imposed, not inhibiting my ability to move around in areas with which I was concerned.
During my stay there I was treated quite Royally, being housed in the Royal Scandinavian Suite, which was a part of the oldest section of the hotel, dating back to the late 1800's. It was really quite an experience, and unique in its own way, for the owners of the hotel had maintained it in its original form, almost as a type of museum piece. The only intrusion of the 21st century, was a TV set, which did seem rather out of place in such a setting.
In the room were to be found two chairs which we in Australia refer to as "squatters chairs" and which I, in my ignorance, so it would appear, had originated in Australia. Yet it seems quite possible that far from this being so, they came originally, either from Sri Lanka, or perhaps India.

One of the ploys used by the locals to relieve you of your money, is for them to attach themselves to you with a story of the sacred elephants which you will only be able to see that very day. The story is told with much embellishment, and lots of enthusiasm, giving the impression that they were doing you a great favour and being your very dear friend. After hailing a Tuk Tuk, which is a local three wheeled taxi, they offer to take you to see this amazing spectacle, after which you are then driven around innumerable streets until arriving at your destination which may well be a Buddhist Temple, or park with a Buddhist statue. And after having shown you all the delights of the temple or Park, along with you being expected to make contributions to numerous people along the way, you eventually come to, not many elephants, in brilliant array, as you were led to believe, but some forlorn member of the species, chained to one spot, which it must maintain day after day.


One cannot but feel a great compassion for them as they stand there, silently swaying from side to side.



I suppose that at least, these people who accost you endeavour to give some value for the money, in distinction to the beggar who just sits with either his hand, or some for of receptacle for the receiving of the money he hopes you will deposit with him.

The streets are narrow and the house do not have any gardens around them, just as in our cities they are apartments. And as they do not have machines for drying their clothes, whever possible they are placed out in the sun-shine, in front of the house on the roadway, to dry.


BasicallyColombo is a relatively clean city. Yet from time to time you do come across heaps of rubbish pushed up on vacant areas.

As in our western societies, the inevitable plastic bag, appears to be the main constituent of thes heaps.




I must admit, after savouring the Durian fruit in some other SE Asian countries, and rarely finding any that compared with those from Thailand, was, to say the least, agreeably surprised to find that those I was able to purchase in Colombo were equally as good.





The markets, were, as in most Asian countries, road-side stalls with the pro-duce often displayed on the ground as is to be seen in the photo on the left.


And the ubiquitous three wheeled taxi of Asia, which I have also seen in Cuba.

They are invaluable for a means of transport on the crowded roads, as well as in the narrow streets and alleyways which abound in cities such as, being able to almost turn in their own length. They weave in and out and around the traffic almost as readily as the cyclists.
It took me until the third day to find my Tuk Tuk driver who has always served me so well.


This is he, with his wife. I found him a most helpful and trustworthy person, always ready and willing to go out of his way to assist in whatever way and capacity he could. I do most sincerely thank him.

Chemotherapy & Cancer

Daniel Hauser and the Side Effects of Cancer Treatments for Hodgkin's Disease

by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor

(NaturalNews) Conventional cancer treatments for Hodgkin's Disease are extremely dangerous to your health. Both radiation and chemotherapy are extremely toxic, and according to the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, undergoing such treatments increases the risk of future cancers by three hundred percent.(1)

One of the most common side effects of chemotherapy is, ironically, cancer. It's a classic example of conventional medicine: The "treatment" for the disease promotes yet more disease, resulting in guaranteed repeat business from patients ("customers") who are never allowed to cure anything. Instead, diseases are "managed" with a lifetime of drugs, repeat doctor visits and complete isolation from anything that might actually cure the patient and end the cycle of dependency on doctors and pharmaceuticals.

Read the full article:
http://www.naturalnews.com/026386_cancer_side_effects_disease.html