In just eight days John and I will be heading into the wild of the unknown (to us) world. Flying to Greece and Turkey (via Munich and Zurich, to maximize miles!), we will be engaging on a whirlwind Mediterranean tour to sample local fare, visit the major sights, patronize assorted hotels, and wear out our walking shoes! Along the way we will hop some regional jets in an attempt to cross from Greece to Turkey via the less-known island of Chios and Turkish port of Cesme. Jets, trains, ferries, busses, and a local tour guide using a "van" to show us around Ephesus will be the modes of transportation where the East meets the West. Don't worry, Athens and Istanbul are also included in our tour, which will last all of six days!

All the thoughts are mounting: what should I wear? What will the weather be like? Will our ferry run from the island to the mainland of Turkey or will it be delayed due to inclement weather? Will I have enough memory for my camera? Will the soles on my beloved shoes make it? Travel exposes us for who we really are. The ugly parts of me only get uglier in the face of the unknown and oft uncontrollable tide of travel happenstance. Yet the beautiful character traits seem to also blossom and become transformed while trusting in the Everlasting Arms that the itinerary will work out, or laughing while getting completely lost in a seedy part or town, or talking with locals at small untouristed restaurants in an effort to understand their take of the world. Travel is able to strip us of all pretenses of control and mastery of our subjects, bringing us back to a point of nascency and utter dependence. What are your Everlasting Arms?

I'm preparing for a wild ride! Hold on tight......