Klibansky

So my new destination this year was to some new places in Egypt. I went first to Alexandria where my friend Vix teaches primary school for the British International school there. We had a good few days and then went with a few of her friends on a trip down to the desert around the Baharayia Oasis.
It’s about a 4-5 hour drive from Cairo and well worth a visit although I would suggest that you go with professional guides as we did as when you are out in the desert you are reliant on the food and water you brought with you and also the driving abilities of your guides.
It was amazing. We went to the white and black deserts (chalk rock monoliths vs black rocky floors) and found some sand dunes in between. At night we slept out under the stars in what they call a bedouin tent which is basically a structure enclosed on 3 sides standing up and open to the air – but helps keep the sand from getting in your food and covering you when you sleep.
The temperature was fine at night – a sleeping bag was useful but a lightweight one was fine and during the day it reached about 40 degrees centigrade and at midday there is no shade for love nor money. (and this was only the end of May/start of June)
all in all a wondrful trip.

I lost a friend this week. Jon. He was only 27. We were at uni together and he died last tuesday. Some problem with his pancreas and there were complications. It is hard to know how I feel. My heart feels like it is being pulled in two. He was one of the nicest people I knew with the biggest heart and not a mean bone in his body. He was a wonderful singer, violist and cook and it was a privilage to have know him. He gave the best hugs and the best massages and just generally enjoyed the world. I loved him very much.

It really hits home how important is is to keep in touch with friends and family as you never know when they will no longer be around. Its not just that though is it? Friends and family make your life richer and fuller and bring inspiration and joy. They should be treasured.

Photo attached is of Jon a year or so ago at a place he loved in the south of France. Perepeteuse – An old Cathar castle near Paziols and Perpignan

Ok, filled up te ipod i have borrowed from my Mum and still have some more music. So going to move from the mini to the 30GB version.
Hopefully have managed to get one on ebay for £180 which isn’t bad (rrp £219) so all should soon be good in my world.
It may take a little while longer to fill it up though i guess!