![]() Wow! Did I really miss a month? It looks that way to me. Then again, I think I had the best intentions to write something and for whatever reason forgot to make the time as I transitioned to a well deserved two week vacation over the holidays. That's right, I went traveling and vlogging. Really, they are one in the same. I don't think I can ever just travel. My urge to have a camera out and film what I see and provide commentary is too strong to pass up. Truly, when I was in Estonia, I got this vicious next cramp. I had no intentions of filming that first day, especially because it hurt with the simple turn of my neck, let alone when I would sit back on the couch. Talk about spasms galore - that I'm still dealing with weeks later. And yet, despite this physical setback, I had the camera out just in case. Of course, I thought I would simply film the Christmas Market in Tallinn. That turned into the square and then the side streets and eventually a full twenty minute vlog. It's compulsive at this stage. With the physical limitations I still found a way forward and how a wonderful, restful vacation exploring five different countries. I started in Malaga, Spain and went onto Lithuania where I explored Kaunas for the first time and then took the train to Vilnius (one of my favorite cities in Europe). Having been to Vilnius on two different occasions, I was eager to get back and explore the familiar streets and all those beautiful churches. Estonia was next on deck with visits to the capital Tallinn and then to my adopted favorite town of Parnu. Neither city let me down and I had fun, new adventures in each. My favorite moment was being back on the couch, sipping tea at the Hotel Victoria. I love that place and the ambiance in their dining area. It's truly the cafe experience I dreamed about. After leaving Estonia we returned to Riga for two nights - which was necessary to right the wrong from two plus years ago when I shortened my trip to one night because the city had too much going on for me. This time I really got a feel for the city and explored some areas I had wanted to see for quite some time. Lithuania called for a second act, so both Vilnius and Kaunas got me for another round of filming. Even though I got drenched to the bone in Kaunas, I finally stumbled across an old Jewish cemetery which made my entire trip. I ended vacation with two days in Liverpool, England. It's funny how I have such a pull to that part of the country. Southport, my usual stomping ground is something like a 20 minute train ride to the north. On this trip, I stay in the Beatles' home city and enjoyed every moment. I'll be back for sure. With my holiday travels now complete, two new vlogs are being released weekly on Sundays and Thursdays until mid February. In the meantime, while I settle back into my teaching routines, I'm writing (yes, I really am - 20,000 words put down in six days) and will give you a further update before my next trip to Provence, France around Valentine's Day. I hope all of you are off to a good start to your 2025. Here's to a great year ahead in all areas of your life. Cheers, JFK
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Meet Mr. Jon- a traveler at heart who loves a good story and walk. Jonathan has over twenty years experience in independent publishing. While he prides himself on crafting a good story, nothing truly beats an adventure and a camera. Archives
January 2025
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