InDependentThinking

Oct. 15-20 This week I went to Belfast. As much as I like training, it was nice to get away and even nicer to stay in a real home.    Nothing makes you appreciate unlimited wifi and hot water like caravan life. We did a bit of site seeing and hiking but mostly it was a relaxing time with great people. I got to visit and stay with an old family friend and her two roommates (both named Katie), all of whom are from the great Pacific Northwest. So yes, they all like coffee, hiking and comfy clothing. When people think of Ireland they think of rolling green hills and red heads-100% accurate.    It is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. On Saturday, after going to the local market, we ventured out to the Mournes, these beautiful mountains that rise up along the coast.    In some ways it reminded me of Washington, green fields, semi-grey skies, and endless water in the background, though no snow topped peaks.  ...

Along the streets of London October 4-14 Building Mushrooms! I am afraid I can’t tell you about all the incredible sites I saw in the city this week.   When I was here 3 years ago on my way to study in Spain I made the most of my time in London and saw all of the main tourist attractions.   This time I enjoyed not having the pressure to go and see a bunch of things that didn’t actually interest me much, and used my time mainly to train in an aerial gym and work on my skills.   It has been a while since I have had a chance to take lessons and get some solid instruction.   I even made a few new circus friends-always the best! I also had the unique experience of taking a hand-to-hand class in a retired cathedral.   Some would probably argue this as less than reverent, but I thought it was pretty cool. Such the gentleman Keeping it classy Though I didn’t get into the city much, Alistair and I did go out to an incredibly nice restaurant ...

Sep 28-Oct. 4 I’ve come to realize that I really appreciate English parks.   They definitely know how to have communal space.   This site has a coffee house, gym, restaurant, challenge course, mini golf, playground, boats (there’s a lake), running trails with exercise equipment, and plenty of green.   It is awesome! This week we are in Milton Keynes, moving closer to London.   Further south means warmer weather. Yay! Alistair even went wakeboarding throughout the week-he was stoked. We also got to use the “guest bedroom” this week.   Oliver, a friend from the states came to visit and watch the show.   It was fun getting to share this side of circus with a performer from home, and pretty great catching up with a familiar face. As awesome as it is here, I do miss my Seattle people. The Lone Tree I am still trying to work on an act, but am having trouble finding time to train aerial and trapeze and trampoline.   I...