Getting Ready for Kilimanjaro

It's hard to believe that this time last year Lucas was in Canada and we were celebration my mum's 50 birthday. It was the first time my family had ever met the crazy Australian, and now, a year latter, we are preparing for our marriage as well as our adventures in Africa.

For all of you that don't know, Lucas and I are going to Africa in August to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the tallest mountain in Africa and is about 19,300 feet and borders Tanzania and Kenya. We are doing the route called Shira, and it should take us approximately 6-8 days to complete. This will be my first experience hiking at such high altitudes so I'm praying that I don't get too sick with the elevation changes.

After our climb, we are going to heading to the Serengeti for a proper safari. We'll then by flying to Egypt and spending a couple of relaxing days amidst the pyramids of GIZA and the tombs of the great kings. Egypt is so rich in history and culture, and has always been a place I've wanted to visit so this is a particular point of interest for me.

This year has been one filled with ups and downs, but to be honest Lucas and I are quite lucky. We've had the opportunity to meet up in places like London, Paris and Estonia throughout this past year. Now that our time is coming to and end, I realise that this separation was a vital part in making us better for each other so that we can be great partners in life. I'm so proud that we stuck this out, and I think the distance was something that made us stronger...... it's been tough but I would have it no other way!

Well today I am off to buy my climbing equipment. I need to get a high quality backpack and day pack, a rain jacket and a few other goodies. We will definitely make sure to post all of photos upon our return from Africa!