preparation still

I'm amazed at how determined I have to be even to prepare.  The number of people who have suggested to me that I am wasting my time! Why would they bother with that?  There are a fair sized gaggle who have told me that it is too dangerous for a single woman to travel alone.  Amazing.  Then there are those who are concerned that I shouldn't go if I don't speak the language/s - once again it is too dangerous.  It's an interesting world isn't it?  Although the language used changes the ideas expressed aren't much different to ones that Jane Austen's heroines would have heard.  Do men get these messages? 

It's really not having the desired effect - I'm thinking of a trip to Africa next or cycling through Vietnam.  Of course there is also the underlying message that I am too old - although before I was too young.  And the question, what is wrong with Australia?  (We have some nice walks here.) 

And finally there is the message that I am being irresponsible.  With this I agree.  I am being irresponsible - that is the point.  I need to step from under my responsibilities and take a break.  I'm stale and I need a fresh view point and some new input.  It's not like I'm not coming back - everything will still be there when I return.  To believe it is not is to let fear and anxiety take over my life - which would be evidence that I need a holiday!

62 days to go!  My daughter helped me buy to the tickets, so irritated I might be but I certainly do have supporters.  Thank you guys. I guess I had better go walk off my irritation and practice for the next 62 days.