All my life I dreamed of traveling the world, but you need money to do this. I worked hard and went to an amazing college and got a great job as a web developer right after graduation. It was here that I spent three years building up my portfolio, gaining valuable experience. Although my life seemed on track, I felt like a large part of me was missing. I craved something more than sitting in a windowless room in front of a computer all day. I wanted to see the world, I felt trapped in a dungeon. When I finally realized that my life was just not heading in the direction I had anticipated, I decided to make the change I was craving. I was going to start traveling any way I could.
When I thought of who I could go with, my father came to mind. Just last year, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, had surgery and almost passed away. Luckily, I still have my father, and I wanted to make some memories with him that would stay with me forever. I also knew it was a dream of his own and that upon our return he would have to undergo extensive chemo treatments. This would be something he needed in life.
Whenever I tell anyone that I'm taking on this adventure they consistently reply with how jealous they are that they can't go. If I could offer up one piece of advice, it would be that there is never going to be a right time. Just save as much money as you can and go with the intention of budgeting and scrimping.
For me, my main goal for this trip is just to explore and try the native foods. I have no real desire for experiencing the mainstream touristy restaurants and five star hotels. The simple life sounds far more appealing; meeting new people and making friends from all over the world in a hostel, strolling through markets and hitting up street vendors for local food. My dad and I are even bringing camping gear along with us so that we can also stay in campsites; I'm really looking forward to camping at Plitvice Lakes.
During our trip, we plan to visit many countries. Starting off in Portugal then onto Spain for the Running of the Bulls. France, Italy, Croatia (to get out of the Schengen countries since we will be traveling longer than 90 days). Austria and then Germany for Oktoberfest and our return flight home. I'm so excited, but I will definitely miss you all!
When life gives you lemons...
As a parting gift, I give to you my "secret" Lemon Bar Recipe so that whenever you make them, you can think of me! This recipe was passed down to a select few family members from our Aunt Peachie. Count yourself lucky, she wasn't too happy that I was sharing the secret!! shhh....
Aunt Peachie's Lemon Bars
- 2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- pinch salt
- 1 cup butter
- 4 eggs
- 2 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- pinch salt
- finely grated zest from juiced lemons
For crust: Mix together the flour, powdered sugar, salt, and butter in a mixing bowl (it will have the consistency of cookie dough). Press into the bottom of the dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
For the Lemon Top: Blend the eggs, sugar, lemon juice, flour, baking soda, salt, and lemon zest; beat until frothy. Pour over the crust. Bake 20-25 minutes longer.
Let cool to room temperature, they will firm as they set. Cut into rectangles and dust with powdered sugar.
