RAMBLE LOGS

It was a wonderful week filled with soccer, sightseeing, food, walking, buses, taxis, Ubers, and the Metro. We made new friends and learned so much about Rome’s history.

London is technically a forest, with over 20% tree cover, so you’re never more than a few moments from a peaceful green space. We might not have miles of mountain trails, but there’s always somewhere new and exciting to take a Ramble.

How can a place make you feel so small and fragile, and yet so completely alive at the same time? Out in the wild, I find myself humbled and lifted in equal measure.

Tofino—affectionately called “Tuff” by those in the know—is our annual tonic. No matter what’s going on in our lives, we seem to find our way back to the ocean, the rainforest, and to some fine sisterhood time.

India isn’t always easy. It’s chaotic, intense, and overwhelming. But it is also profoundly rewarding—leaving you with unforgettable memories, a renewed perspective, and perhaps even a shift in how you see yourself. 

We hiked the Beautiful Bay Trail, which was a relaxed ramble—until we decided to detour down to the beach. The descent? A little tricky. The reward? A regal, silent eagle keeping watch from a log, as if to remind us who really owns this beach.

This wasn’t a luxury or a checklist escape. It was something more meaningful—a chance for women in midlife to challenge themselves, share stories, and form deep bonds in a wild and welcoming place.

The first time I questioned my sanity for walking the Camino as a solo female, I hadn’t even left Dublin. Sitting in the airport, waiting to board my flight to Santiago de Compostela, I felt completely underprepared.

Portugal captured our hearts in every way—from its sun-drenched coastlines and ancient cities to its rich culture, incredible food, and warm, welcoming people. Traveling at a slower pace allowed us to truly soak it all in, savoring each stop instead of simply checking it off a list. 

Vietnam is a country of rich history, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering food, where tradition seamlessly blends with modern life. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene landscapes of the countryside, there’s always something exciting to discover. 

We began as travelers, but ended as sisters. This adventure through Morocco was more than a journey across landscapes—it was a celebration of sisterhood, laughter, and shared dreams. To my Sole Sisters—Betty, Soan, and Cheryl—thank you for the memories. Until the next ramble!

Picture 1,000 caravans and RVs lined up in neat rows, all equidistant from each other—a remarkable sight. Music and dancing were the highlights each evening, while hiking and biking filled our days.

Have you ever wanted to drive from Kelowna, British Columbia, to Pensacola, Florida? In someone else’s car? With someone else’s two dogs? Yeah, me neither… but that’s exactly what I did in September 2022!

My husband’s heart attack led us to embrace a healthier lifestyle. This life-changing event also sparked a new hobby for us: hiking. We now seek out destinations with the best hiking trails, and Newfoundland proved to be a Rambler’s paradise.

We are encouraged to sit here in peace for a while, meditating, resting, contemplating this journey. It's been a long walk. It's been a lot to take in. It feels good to sit. Just here, now, in near-silence. In sunlight.

The trail pops out at the lovely Wat Pha Lat temple. Temples abound in these parts, but this one is a bit sweeter than the rest. It feels mystic, with the jungle encroaching on all sides.

We met in our Sole Circle, discovered we were neighbors and a year later walked a 1,000-year-old Byzantine road, and visited ancient archaeological sites and swam in the Aegean Sea.

Walking four Caminos has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Each has brought challenges, beauty, and meaning, shaping who I am and giving me memories I'll cherish forever.

We may not have been fast or graceful, but we did it—just one foot in front of the other, sometimes loving it, sometimes hating it, but with such a feeling of satisfaction at finishing.

Karijini, a place that's truly off the beaten path, offers a unique adventure worth adding to your bucket list! The allure of its rugged beauty and the thrill of its adventures are calling me back.

Every time we visit we discover more gems and interesting paths. The Indigenous people call this lake “Gitche Gumee,” meaning “Great Sea,” and it has a spiritual attraction that keeps us going back.