Over a week on and I’m still buzzing from this one—an absolutely epic day out on the Dragon’s Back! We went to Hay-on-Wye for the Riverside parkrun first which was really lovely.
This hike was everything: tough, wild, a bit cold at times, and utterly breathtaking.
We set out with high spirits and solid legs, and by the end we’d tamed the ridges and conquered the peaks. The climbs were no joke, especially up to Waun Fach (811 m), but every step was worth it for those views.
It felt like we were climbing for the first five kilometres. From the ruins of Castell Dinas (450 m) to the sweep of the Black Mountains from Pen y Grib (493 m), this route delivered in every way.
It was the third organised walk from the series but the second attended by friends.
As for the first one, I planned the route on paper maps, GPS Garmin device and OS Maps app. I sent a kit list, admin instructions including elevation and overall hole description, as well as a timed itinerary, and everyone was prepared. I also provided the customary flapjacks.
The company was brilliant (thanks Gary, Johnny and Gary!), the weather held, and the landscape felt like something straight out of a fantasy novel.
Being there, at the top of those hills brings me such joy I don’t know how to put it in words and pictures can’t show it either… it’s somehow awe for nature we are with, a sense of insignificance and impermanence that makes me feel free from daily worries. It just fills my happiness tank!
I haven’t stopped smiling since. This was a hike that reminded me why the mountains are my happy place.
Highlights:
Sweeping ridges with huge views
A proper leg-burner with rewarding climbs (yes, it’s a positive!)
Sunshine, lovely friends, and moments of pure joy
Already planning to return. If you’re up for a challenge and love wild beauty, Dragon’s Back is calling!!
I woke up with the dawn chorus, feeling quite cold, and when looking outside, fog was covering all those beautiful views from last night. I warmed up with my breakfast (porridge and hot chocolate) and slowly started getting ready and packed for the day ahead. It was my last night out in the wild, and I had to pack this tent still damp from the mist. One thing that disgusted me was finding a slug on top of my sleeping bag! Yuck. I guess it got in the tent while I made and ate breakfast. It’s been a great experience but I don’t think I’m made for the fully outdoors life! I’m glad I did this for the last few days and got an experience unlike any others. But I’ll be glad not to have to carry my house with me everywhere after that 🐌.
When I woke up, I’d say the visibility was about 100m. By the time I set off, it had improved. Looking at my map, I estimated about 300m visibility. It improved as I walked along. I tried to keep a good pace to keep myself warm. I had all the layers and gloves, but it was a little windy and still cold.
I wore compression socks last night, and it may be the reason, but my right calf didn’t hurt as in previous days; I was especially conscious of it in the steep descent to Cwm Penmachno. It was pain-free.
The Eagles in Penmachno was closed and seemed to only open for evening meals, so I purchased some food and a big bottle of water at the Londis. I topped up my now empty Camelback and found a bin by the bus stop to throw the bottle away.
I found it hard to find directions out of Penmachno. Maybe tiredness or maybe I missed the signage? Then I climbed above Penmachno to the forest edge and carried on along the forest track for quite a while. I felt stronger, and my pace improved.
I saw some waterfalls, and then, as I planned to stop in the car park by the crossroads before the Conwy Falls for lunch, I realised there was a lovely café. It felt like luxury. The café owners/workers were so lovely. The all-day veggie breakfast was delicious, and there was a charging point where I topped up my power pack. I had two americanos, and the sun came out while I waited. The toilets were very clean and boasted a shower cubicle, which is worth knowing for wild campers, I guess? Not that I recommend wild camping here as it’s a busy car park!
At this point, I made the decision to end my Llwybr Llechi Eryri walk at Betws-y-Coed today. It’s been wonderful, but being tired, I don’t think I should push it further. I decided I would return by public transport to my booked accommodation from there. With that in mind, I decided to take my time and enjoy the Conwy Falls. It was £2, so be prepared to pay if you ever go there. I was just surprised, but I do understand contributions help keep the place safe and sustainable. The sun had come out to play, which made it a very lovely stroll. The falls were so impressive and powerful!
I was a little tired after the stroll around the woods. I took a break by the café and then set off for my last stretch from Conwy Falls to Betws-y-Coed. What a wonderful calming walk. It was sunny, but the tree-lined paths made it so pleasant. I arrived in Betws-y-Coed just before 16:30 and sat on a bench in the park, contemplating what I achieved in the last few days, before heading to the train/bus station.
I perhaps will come back one day and walk from Betws-y-Coed to Bethesda.
My advice
– Plan for all weathers! Overall I was lucky with the weather but it gets cold and windy in places. – Prepare to tackle hills. They are everywhere. But no rush, you can enjoy it and look around by slowing down. Also, the more you walk hills, the easier it gets. – Travel light: I had my struggles but anyone who’s more reasonable than me would not do it camping , by staying in accommodation and getting support/lifts + not carrying a heavy pack. Having a lighter bag would massively have improved my pace. – You need to like sheep a lot 🐑 😆 they will be everywhere! – Don’t be scared to walk through mud and waterlogged ground. Get proper waterproof boots (mine are expensive but didn’t let me down a single time). – Check your route before you go. Bring a map / make sure you have basic navigation skills in case you are in low visibility or in wilder areas with fewer signposts. – Have sufficient water and food. – Finally, enjoy! You don’t have to do the whole route. Do take detours to see sights you like. My favourite part hands up was Beddgelert to Nantmor. It’s short but challenging. I also loved the Bwlchgwernog area, just before Croesor.
For those of you who live in the area, go enjoy the beauty you have in your doorstep 💚
I hope you’ve enjoyed reading these walk reports. I hope it inspires some of you to spend time outdoors, be it for your own adventures, on this trail or elsewhere, or a day out in your local area. Feel free to ask me questions if I can help. I might not know the answer but I will try to help/ find out.
Being with nature is wonderful for the soul. Try it more often.
So what’s next?
I will be walking a marathon between Winchester and Salisbury on 2nd June in aid of Julia’s House Children’s hospice. If you can and would like to contribute, here is the fundraising page.
After that, I am tackling the Edale Skyline challenge with my friend Andrea mid-June (20 miles in 8h – not sure I can do that!). I’ll try to blog about this. Then my walking adventures will be on a break until late October while I train for my first-ever half marathon. (Scary)
Diolch Eryri am yr antur! Wela’i di wedyn!
And with this, I wish you all happy rambling.
You can’t add days to your life, but you can add life to your days.
I wasn’t feeling at my best this morning. I woke up with a headache (and a bit of a nosebleed but it didn’t last – I think it’s just sinusitis-kike symptoms) and remember having had very vivid stressful dreams.
My legs felt rested. My battery packs were not full because the charger was super slow and only had one USB slot on it.
I had porridge and hot chocolate. I also took antihistamines and paracetamol.
As I was packing my bag, I realised I broke my sunglasses which isn’t ideal. I guess that’s something else not to carry but what a shame.
I went to the corner shop (opened at 8am) to buy a couple of things before I headed off and left Llan Ffestiniog around 08:30.
The plan today was to walk to Penmachno. It is a hilly challenging 13+ miles with a 5km stretch which the guide describes as the “wildest of the entire Trail” (also part of Migneint site of special scientific interest).
The first part of the walk was absolutely beautiful : Ceunant Cynfal nature reserve. I walked past many waterfalls, lovely oak trees covered in moss, bluebells, etc. the main attraction is the Rhaeadr Cynfal waterfall.
Walking from Llan Ffestiniog to the viaduct, at a leisurely pace, stopping for photos of waterfalls, oak trees, moss and bluebells, took 1h.
I had been feeling quite tired, headachey and hungry. I stopped in the woods to eat salted cashews, drink water and take two ibuprofen (I had paracetamol this morning). I knew there was a bit of hill climbing ahead today so I took it at an easy pace.
I walked to the Fferm cwm (ancient building). Then the hill that followed was vety hard work but rewarded by the beautiful waterfall once you reach the first top. The path keeps climbing thereafter until you reach the road. The terrain was also difficult with wet ground and clumps of grass. Watch your ankles! My right calf was sore so it’s been hard work.
From there it’s well signed. I stopped after the crossing to send messages in case there is no signal later. I had food as it was lunch time.
Tiredness started to be felt at that point. My eyes wanting to shut and rest so I put on my fleece, laid on my backpack and slept for five minutes. I needed that rest. I went on to Llyn y Morynion. It was beautiful. Sadly it was spoilt by the engine noise of a truck/car. Someone from Welsh Waters was sat there in the car space, with their engine on.
Electric lamb?
I carried past the dam and went past two small slate derelict houses. I followed what seemed the track only to realise I was slightly off track. I got my marks looking around and found the gate. Interestingly when I got there, it was the other side of the fence!
When I got stuck out the gate.Gate conquered
So I took off my bag and climed over. Another win for the confidence:)
I walk past the bryn y Castell (ancient fort) and up the hill , following the fence. I stopped for an afternoon snack and watch battery top-up by a little lake (on the other side of the fence). It was good to stop to check the route ahead.
Stile in disrepair Amazed at the natural bubbles that kept forming
Straight after my break followed a lot of wet ground and I escaped sinking a couple of times; I made my way up then down hill to reach the road. I sat on the slate bridge for a minute – chatting on the phone with my daughters. Then I took on THE hill towards the slate plant. Steep road. It took me 30 minutes to reach the plant, helped by playing a bit of music too. I thought it was a good effort. Never skip leg day at the gym or interval hill training at the running club!
I walked around the corner from the slate plant, toward the disused communication towers and arrived on top of Rhiwbach quarry. What a view!
Not impressed by climbing that road for 30 min straight
My legs have given up so I stopped here for the night. Just a few meters from the path, as I don’t want to be around any mineshafts. I cooked dinner, drank peppermint tea and I’m ready to sleep. I walked for 9 hours and saw nobody else walking. Not even dog walkers.
Tomorrow will take me to Penmachno and hopefully Betws-y-coed. This is likely my last day of walking so I probably won’t complete the whole trail back to Bethesda. But I’m glad I walked this far already and I’m in awe of how amazing Eryri is.
There is not phone or mobile data here, so I’m using the campsite wifi. Instead of my usual blog, I will just paste my notes, taken along the day (and dump photos as usual).
I woke up at 5 am. It’s still raining continuously outside, but I know I can’t just leave the tent pitched, so I am going to fold it wet. My boots are still wet on top from yesterday from when I submerged my feet by accident.
Note that wild camping is not legal unless you have permission from the landowner. I was fully prepared to move if asked. I pitched at dusk and lifted camp early, leaving no trace.
I cleaned and charged my watch, had a bar of protein Oreo Grenade.
I deflated my mat, trying to be organized in the tiny tent space, packed all my stuff in the dry bags, put on fresh socks, rain trousers, and a backpack cover on the bag. I will try to find a café later and stop for a hot drink, food, and admin/blog posting from yesterday, etc., network permitting.
Padarn forest/park was beautiful. Some places looked like a fairytale land with so many bluebells, moss, and being on top of a waterfall. Lovely to see wildlife.
The uphill and downhill paths were really tricky and slippery. Not sure how I managed to stay upright but I did. The viewing point over the lake was gorgeous, even in poor weather.
The National Slate Museum was shut as it’s 08:15 – too early.
On the footbridge after the museum, beautiful views of Dolbadarn Castell and the mountains. Must be even more impressive on a clear day!
Stopped at the Heights restaurant for breakfast in Llanberis. It wasn’t marked as open in Google maps, but I saw people and asked, and they serve breakfast from 8 am.
Had a “small” English breakfast and a black coffee. Hunger does wonderful things; I don’t usually like baked beans, but I ate everything on the plate. Made use of the toilets and charged my power pack.
After Llanberis, I went up a massive hill. And again. But the views were incredible. Then the path felt quite long before turning to Waunfawr. Views of the sea, I think, and a castle in front too. Sadly overcast, but it must be amazing in clear weather.
The rain stopped late morning. Friends in the South are bragging of the gorgeous weather. Sadly it wasn’t so good here. The way down to Waunfawr is super pretty with mini waterfalls but also extremely muddy. Nice kestrel overhead. As I approached the village, I could hear cockerels and ducks and chickens, etc.
Today I did 17.5 miles, and it wasn’t flat! I’m thinking to limit my walk to 12-15 miles tomorrow because my legs and hips are suffering a little this evening.
Also spotted the steam train.
I had done over 8 miles by 12:00. Happy with that even though I guess some of that was in the café this morning.
I stopped at Tafarn Snowdonia Parc – had a toastie, salad, and chips and a half pint of Aur Eryri. Struggling to eat so much bread and chips, but I need to fuel the walk.
Topped up watch and phone charge, water, used the toilet.
Walked uphill and talked with three lovely Welsh people. Then up up in woods, it was so beautiful. Hard work as my pack is heavy uphill. My centre of gravity shifted with the weight if the pack.
Then on the moor, I felt like in Iceland with the wind and landscape. I turned a corner, saw the sea. Everything was fine again.
What mattered was I knew where I was and where I was going. It felt so slow again. Super tired by then.
Just slow things down and it all becomes beautiful
Also, white horses to cross through. A lot of soggy ground again through the old quarries.
The mountains are majestic. I saw some people; they said the path gets better after you turn a corner so I followed the signage but ended up about 30 minutes off course. At that point I thought it would cost me a night of wild camping rather than reaching the campsite in after Nantlle tonight.
The picture don’t do it justice but the colour of the water in the quarry was so blue. Amazing.
Bloody kissing gates not taking the size of my pack – covered in mud
Then I left the quarry area and walked into Nantlle. There was no network at all for my phone so I couldn’t phone the campsite to book. It was a bit of a slog on sore legs and with my heavy bag, but I made it to the campsite around 7 pm. I showered, made dinner (couscous with chorizo & peppermint tea), washed my clothes while having a hot chocolate, and connected to the WiFi (by the toilet block). It’s noisy on the other side of the campsite with a big group, but I think I will sleep well.
A note, the lady in charge of the campsite, I think her name is Donna, is an absolute gem. Super helpful. The campsite cost me £10 for one night.
Next I need to see if I can spot anywhere to camp 12 to 15 miles away from here.
Yesterday marked the start of my hike along the Snowdonia Slate Trail, a day of surprises, scenic wonders, and a mix of challenges and small wins.
Setting off on the train to Newport, I found myself chatting with the station staff, setting a cheerful tone for the day ahead. I had to find a fix (a headband) for my backpack’s loose buckle. I switch trains at Newport for the Transport for Wales train, (it had USB charging points!) and announcements in Welsh, adding an immersive touch to the journey.
Interestingly the toilet felt like a TARDIS and kept talking 😆 “door closed”…
Chatting with other passengers was lovely and the lady selling food and drinks explained the voice for announcements is called “Digital Doris” amongstbthe staff.
Arriving in Bangor, I stepped onto the trail, greeted by a picturesque bike path in the woods and by penrhyn castle. Yet, amidst the beauty, I couldn’t help but notice the reality of homelessness under the bridge (someone clearly lives there)—a stark reminder of the world’s complexities.
I kept walking, and the scenery got better – fields full of sheep and adorable baby lambs, and I stumbled upon a lovely spot with bluebells nestled between a couple of trees.
Then, along the fence next to the A55, it got a bit muddy in places, but the wooden path kept it wild enough. I couldn’t help but notice the cars zooming by through the bushes and trees – even played “yellow car”, just for fun.
After that, I struggled over and over again through kissing gates as my pack was too big for them. Taking my bag off, lifting it over the gate, going through, putting my bag back on, walking the length of the field, and starting again…). It slowed me down a lot and was tiring.
Despite the hurdles (pun intended), the journey was punctuated by moments of wonder, from the smell of wild garlic to the breathtaking views atop Charub quarry. Pushing onward towards Bethesda, I struggled with fatigue and the weight of my pack. I was on my own all day. No other hikers on the trail. Just a few dog walkers in towns.
Deciding against indulging in a warm meal and pint in Bethesda, I carried on past Bethesda. The quaint station caught my eye with its charming architecture, providing a brief respite before pushing onwards.
Leaving the town behind, I hoped for smoother terrain to pitch my tent. A massive hill loomed before me, challenging my resolve, but the breathtaking views and wildlife sightings offered ample reward.
Saw another yellow car!
Fortunately, the weather held, sparing me from the rain as I navigated through marshy, boggy ground and crossed streams with caution.
I pressed on, guided by a mix of determination and optimism. As dusk approached, I faced the daunting task of finding a suitable spot to pitch my tent. My first option was under power lines, so I moved on.
With limited options and the threat of rain looming, I made a quick decision, settling for a rocky patch near a house.With the worst of the pitching behind me, I treated myself to a comforting meal of pasta and a hot chocolate, a well-deserved reward after a challenging day on the trail.
Richard later shared, it was Judith’s birthday yesterday – I think she’d have like my little adventure.
Stay tuned for the next chapter of my journey in Snowdonia.
In the lead-up to my upcoming Snowdonia Slate Trail adventure, I embarked on two amazing hikes that not only served as preparation but also filled my soul with joy and anticipation for the trails ahead.
Firstly, I ventured to Coaley Peak and Woodchester Valley loop, accompanied by the indomitable Andrea. Amidst the verdant woods and rolling hills, we indulged in a morning of hiking, sprinkled with a dash of trail running to outrun a passing tractor in the vineyard – an adventure filled with laughter, sunshine, and the simple pleasures of nature. It was a reminder of why the great outdoors is my happy place, and I eagerly look forward to more moments like these.
Next, I tackled Fan Brycheiniog, standing tall at 802m in the heart of Wales. Joined by ten fellow trekkers (from our Iceland trek) and two canine companions, Bear & Daisy, the day was nothing short of extraordinary. Despite the initial steep incline and an unexpected detour along the way, our journey was marked by camaraderie, breathtaking vistas, and the shared joy of overcoming challenges.
As I reflected on our Iceland trek and the resilience it demanded, conquering Fan Brycheiniog felt like a tribute to our determination and spirit of adventure. Each step reminded me of the incredible community of trekkers and supporters rallying behind Prospect Hospice, spurring me onward to embrace new challenges and make a difference.
With memories of these two unforgettable hikes fueling my excitement, I’m ready to embark on the Snowdonia Slate Trail, embracing the unknown with open arms and a heart full of anticipation. Here’s to the adventures that lie ahead, the friendships forged on the trails, and the endless possibilities waiting to be discovered amidst the beauty of nature.
It’s been two weeks since I embarked on the unforgettable Iceland Trek in support of Prospect Hospice, and it’s time to share the incredible adventure with you all (sorry for the delay). From breathtaking landscapes to unexpected challenges, each day brought new experiences and lasting memories. I loved getting to know my fellow trekkers, and by the end of the five days, experiencing so much together, it felt like we’d known each other for five years. As I write this, I miss them so much!
Day 1: Travel and Reykjavik Welcome
Our journey began with an early start from the airport. Landing in Iceland just before lunchtime, we boarded our minibus, our trusty transport for the duration of the trek, and headed to Reykjavik for a delightful lunch in a food hall (everyone gets dishes from various restaurants and we eat in a central location) and a tour led by our knowledgeable guide, Dagny. From glimpses of the Parliament to insights into Icelandic history, the tour was a perfect introduction to this vibrant city. The highlight for me, however, was the harbour and the exceptional Harpa concert hall, a masterpiece of modern architecture.
In the evening, we arrived at our accommodation for the next three days. Expecting a basic hostel, we were pleasantly surprised by the lovely hotel awaiting us. Sharing a room with Sal, the best roommate I could have wished for, added to the experience. The hotel’s “hot pots” (hoy tub but not bubbly) offered relaxation with their crystal-clear waters, complemented by unlimited tea, coffee, and hot chocolate from the coffee machine. Chef Harry treated us to sumptuous dinners, with salmon and a lovely chocolate cake pudding, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.
That evening I had a glass of wine. My first in about 4 months (I’d stopped counting at 100 days). It felt right to enjoy a glass of wine with those wonderful people, eating delicious food.
That evening, we heard that the volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula, which we passed on the way from the airport earlier that day and saw its smoke, erupted. The guide had told us that some scientists said it would erupt again whilst others were persuaded it would erupt again.
Day 2: Exploring Þingvellir
The morning brought a flurry of messages from friends, all concerned about the eruption. Fortunately, our trek remained unaffected; although we were also situated in the southwest of Iceland, far from the peninsula where the eruption occurred. We couldn’t even catch a glimpse of it in the sky, unlike reports of an orange glow seen above Reykjavik that night.
Hiking in Þingvellir National Park was a highlight of the trek, where we traversed a lava field (now extinct) in the 5km gap that separates the fault line between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The stunning scenery, from lowlands to a beautiful lake, to picturesque waterfalls, left me in awe of Iceland’s natural beauty. In that place, I think I might have fallen in love with Iceland! Despite encountering some challenging weather, the day was filled with wonder for this unique landscape.
When back at the hotel we had a gorgeous dish of braised lamb, with a madeira sauce made after Harry’s grandmother’s recipe…. and the best creme brulée I’ve ever eaten!
It was St Patrick’s day so we celebrated with some Jameson whiskey. We also had a great game of cards. What a lovely evening.
Day 3: Conquering Hengill
On the third day of our journey, we ventured towards the majestic Hengill volcano mountain range. En route, we passed an intriguing plant that I had never encountered before. Apparently, these plants capture CO2 from the air and reintroduce it deep into the ground—a fascinating environmental initiative [news article about it].
Ascending Hengill was a monumental challenge, one that pushed me to my limits both physically and mentally. But I relished every step in the snow…I wasn’ so keen in climbing the steep mossy inclines. Despite being the hardest thing I’ve ever done, it also treated me to some of the most breathtaking sights I’ve ever seen and provided valuable lessons along the way.
As we ascended through snow, ice and moss-covered terrain, the physical and mental challenges became apparent for all of us in the group. Everyone was pushing their limits and supporting each other. Little did we know, the weather had more in store for us. During our lunch break, the strong winds started peaking and relentless sleet made an appearance—a preview of the grueling return journey back down the mountain that awaited us.
Despite the harsh conditions, the camaraderie within our group and the sheer beauty of the landscape made every step forward feel worthwhile. However, as the weather intensified, so did its toll on my body. I found myself grappling with mild hypothermia (I didn’t know that it was hypothermia at the time), my mood darkening as I struggled to eat, to stay warm and to stay focused.
Upon reaching the minibus, I was trembling, my soaked layers providing little protection against the biting cold. It dawned on me that the elements had gone through every layer, leaving me vulnerable and chilled to the bone. Grateful for the offered coats in the mini bus and for the short trip back to the hotel, I sought refuge in the warmth of the room, where a hot shower, dry clothes, and then comforting hot chocolate and cake in the snug, helped restore some semblance of warmth and vitality.
I still had a headache that only shifted after dinner. So I went to the sauna for welcome warmth.
Despite the adversities we faced, the experience only deepened my affection for Iceland and reinforced my belief in the indomitable resilience of the human spirit, as exemplified by the determination of our group.
Day 4: Reykjadalur Valley
Our final hiking day took us through the stunning Reykjadalur Valley, where hot springs and streams awaited. Walking through snow, wind, and hail once again, but this time I remained warm, we reached the hot river bathing spot—a surreal experience amidst the harsh elements.
Arriving at the hot river bathing spot felt like stepping into a dream amidst the unforgiving elements. The contrast between the icy surroundings and the soothing warmth of the natural springs was nothing short of surreal.
After indulging in the rejuvenating experience, we retraced our steps back to the café where we had parked, our spirits filled by the sense of accomplishment and camaraderie. With warm drinks in hand (and perhaps a few indulging in something stronger), we shared hearty laughs and triumphant smiles, basking in the joy of our shared achievement.
As we paused to reflect on our journey and the funds raised for Prospect Hospice, a profound sense of pride and gratitude washed over us. Not only had we explored some of the wonders of this remarkable country, but we had also made a tangible difference in the lives of others—a truly humbling and rewarding experience.
We headed to Reykjavik to a new hotel and for a celebratory dinner.
Still no sight of the northern lights but we’ll have to return to Iceland for this.
Reflecting on the Journey
Looking back on the Iceland Trek, I’m filled with a mix of emotions—gratitude for the support of friends and fellow trekkers, awe at the beauty of Iceland’s landscapes, and admiration for the resilience of the human spirit.
Being part of this landscape, each day, show how little we are, amongst the majestic mountains and vol
In hindsight, the challenges faced during the mountain hike on Hengill left a lasting impact. Since then, I’ve struggled with regulating my body temperature and have found it difficult to exercise properly. Despite these ongoing difficulties, the journey was a testament to the power of perseverance and the joy of adventure. I’m priviledge, lucky and grateful to have had such an amazing experience, have met and walked with the most beautiful souls, and seen such incredible sights.
As I’m writing this, I want to thank every single one of you who have supported Prospect Hospice through donations on my page.
I’m now preparing for my next adventure, in May, in North Wales. More in the next post. Until then, happy rambling.
