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Brothers' epic journey across Australia to raise money for cancer

<p>Brothers Stefan and Lachlan Lamble have firsthand experience on how devastating cancer can be.</p> <p>The brothers, both in their 20s, lost their grandmother to breast cancer eight years ago, and recently had their other grandmother pull through a difficult cancer battle. </p> <p>After being inspired by their family's hardships, the Lamble brothers have set out on an epic adventure to cross Australia by foot in just 100 days. </p> <p>Stefan and Lachlan began their journey in Perth in February, and have spent 66 days so far battling difficult conditions while pushing their bodies to the limit. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5fNETERB0s/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5fNETERB0s/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Lambros (@lambrosarmy)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The pair are just days away from reaching Adelaide, and have had some trying times on their momentous journey so far. </p> <p>"One day reached 46 degrees and the soles of our shoes literally melted," Lachlan told <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/brothers-tackle-momentous-100day-cross-country-challenge-for-cancer-research/bcf7f2f5-482a-4ef3-9ca2-f4a0412beed9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9News</a>. </p> <p>Their unwavering commitment to raising money for cancer research has garnered widespread support, with a legion of fans across the country cheering them on. </p> <p>"It gives us a bit of hope that there might be some new research, and that's all we can really hope for," she said.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5z-9LaJtqS/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5z-9LaJtqS/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by 9News (@9news)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The brothers aimed to raise $100,000 before they reach their final destination of Melbourne, but with the help of their dedicated supports, they reached their financial goal just after their halfway mark. </p> <p>Now, the brothers have their sights set on a new goal: $1 million before the end of the year. </p> <p>"We are doing it for everyone back home that has been impacted by cancer, so please find it in your hearts to donate at <a href="https://www.acrf.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ACRF</a> (Australian Cancer Research Foundation)," Stefan said.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Nine News</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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A young mum's inspiring journey through pregnancy and cancer

<p>In the midst of life's unpredictable twists and turns, there are moments of pure joy that shine like beacons in the night. For Dani Donne, that radiant moment arrived when she discovered she was pregnant.</p> <p>It was a dream come true, a promise of new beginnings after the heartache of a previous miscarriage. Little did she know that this joyous revelation would be swiftly followed by a daunting diagnosis that would put her strength and resilience to the ultimate test.</p> <p>Just seven days after celebrating the news of her pregnancy, Dani received the devastating news: she had breast cancer. It was a staggering blow, one that shook her to her core. Fear gripped her heart as she worried for both her unborn child and herself. How could she face such a daunting battle while nurturing new life within her?</p> <p>But Dani's spirit refused to be dimmed by the darkness of uncertainty. With unwavering determination, she embarked on a journey that would challenge her in ways she never imagined. Surrounded by the compassionate care of specialists at Mater Hospital in Brisbane, Dani found a glimmer of hope among the shadows.</p> <p>Dr Catherine Shannon guided Dani through the complexities of her treatment. Diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer, Dani faced unique challenges as she navigated the delicate balance between her own health and the well-being of her unborn child. Yet, with the expertise of her medical team, Dani underwent surgery followed by a carefully orchestrated treatment plan that prioritised the safety of her precious baby.</p> <p>Throughout the ups and downs of her cancer journey, Dani found solace in the embrace of Mater Hospital's dedicated staff. Their unwavering support and encouragement served as a pillar of strength, bolstering her resolve during moments of doubt and fear. As she cradled her newborn daughter, Parker, in her arms, Dani reflected on the incredible journey that had brought them together.</p> <p>Despite the uncertainties that loomed on the horizon, Dani's story is one of triumph and resilience. With each step of her journey, she embodied the very essence of courage, facing adversity with grace and determination. And in the end, her unwavering spirit prevailed, ushering in a new chapter filled with boundless joy and endless possibilities.</p> <p>As Dani looks to the future with hope and gratitude, she serves as a beacon of inspiration for us all. Her story reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is always light to be found. And with love, support and unwavering determination, we can overcome even the greatest of obstacles.</p> <p><em>Images: Mater Hospital</em></p>

Caring

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Pensioner's epic 600-mile journey from England to Scotland on a pony

<p>Jane Dotchin has completed an epic 600-mile (1000 km) journey from England to the Scottish Highlands with her pack pony Diamond, and disabled Jack Russell terrier Dinky.</p> <p>The 82-year-old has been making this seven-week trek every year since 1972, with nothing but her trusted pony, pet dog and a few belongings including a tent, food and water which she carries in a saddlebag.</p> <p>The pensioner travels between 15 and 20 miles a day from Hexham, Northumberland to Inverness in the Scottish Highlands. </p> <p>"I love camping and I love the countryside," she said, according to the <em><a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-12735287/Pensioner-82-completes-600-mile-ride-England-Scotland-horse-Diamond-7-week-trip-shes-year-1972.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail</a>.</em> </p> <p>Her dog Dinky, who deformed front legs,  is just as happy to go on the adventure, sitting comfortably in the saddlebag as the world passes by her. </p> <p>She lives on porridge, oatcakes and cheese, and carries an old mobile phone in case of emergencies. </p> <p>Dotchin does not let her eye-patch stop her either, as she is determined to continue the tradition for as long as possible.</p> <p>"I know the route so well, I don’t need to read maps. I can manage if I keep to the routes I know," she told the publication. </p> <p>Dotchin first started long-distance trekking 40 years ago when she rode to Somerset, which was around 300 miles from where she lived, to visit a friend. </p> <p>She has made the journey up north every autumn since, and is an inspiration to many, with those who have spotted her sharing photos and videos of the avid horse rider. </p> <p>"A personal hero passed by just now!" wrote one person, who spotted Dotchin riding her pony back in 2021. </p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">A personal hero passed by just now! <a href="https://t.co/vcwcdjxMOI">https://t.co/vcwcdjxMOI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JaneDotchin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JaneDotchin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BBCScotland?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BBCScotland</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheScotsman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheScotsman</a> <a href="https://t.co/8qegaOLA3P">pic.twitter.com/8qegaOLA3P</a></p> <p>— Robyn Woolston (@robynwoolston) <a href="https://twitter.com/robynwoolston/status/1441359649387671557?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2021</a></p></blockquote> <p>"Went to watch a bike race and instead discovered an amazing, adventurous and inspirational woman," wrote another person, who spotted Dotchin in 2022. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CiLfMCVMOOy/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CiLfMCVMOOy/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Eiger X (@eiger.x)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"What an absolute inspiration on a beautiful morning," wrote another, who spotted her a week later. </p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">When you’re struggling on a morning run and meet the incredible <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/janedotchin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#janedotchin</a> on the path. This 82-year-old rides 600 miles across Scotland every autumn with her horse Diamond and disabled Jack Russell Dinky in her saddle bag. What an absolute inspiration on a beautiful morning. <a href="https://t.co/SuAvQug6dc">pic.twitter.com/SuAvQug6dc</a></p> <p>— 📚🕷Suzy A #CrowMoon 🖤❤️📚 (@writer_suzy) <a href="https://twitter.com/writer_suzy/status/1569965657629794306?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p><em>Images: Twitter/ Instagram</em></p>

International Travel

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Explore. Dream. Discover: An Over60 Reader's epic journey

<p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Many people travel to all corners of the earth, seeking new and exciting experiences, especially when we retire and are able to do so. Sometimes we can be pushed beyond the boundaries of our comfort zone but usually the experience is positive and often transformational. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">One popular destination for travellers who enjoy adventure is Sedona in Arizona, a town that nestles in a desert on the edge of red rock canyons. Nearby is Hopiland, home to the Hopi Indians. One of my most treasured memories occurred in this part of the world in 1990, on top of a desert mountain known as a mesa. The mesa rose thousands of feet above ground level and I climbed up there with a group of friends from Australia. As we reached the top, we began to hear the sound of drums and chanting coming from an underground cave. Our travel guide informed us that inside the cave, Hopi women and children huddled together on the dirt floor to watch their menfolk perform legendary rituals honouring their ancient ancestors. Since the ceremony was forbidden to tourists, we were given an hour to explore the top of the mesa. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Moving a short distance away from the rest of the group, I sat down on a rock to fully absorb the nearby pulse of drums and chanting. A few minutes later, three young Hopi boys appeared and attempted to converse with me. Initially, I found it difficult to understand what they were saying until I realised they were actually inviting me to accompany them underground to join their tribal family. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Throwing caution to the wind, I followed them down a rickety wooden ladder poking out of a hole in the ground. The atmosphere inside the cave was thick with burning sage combined with swirling dust from the pounding feet of men dancing, their heads hidden inside huge masks. Barefooted women and children squatted on the dirt floor and I felt very much an intruder as I squeezed myself amongst them. But, reassured by friendly smiles and head-nodding, I began to relax, absorbing the magical rituals of times past. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Eventually the ancient ceremony ended, and I climbed the ladder back into the twentieth century, overcome by a newfound sense of humility and realisation of just how unimportant the wealth and material greed of Western society is. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">One can often rely on the unexpected to occur when travelling. During a visit to Egypt one year, our group emerged from the Temple of Isis to settle down and meditate on the bank of a nearby river when a military policeman appeared out of the bushes, clutching a large submachine gun. His other hand appeared to conceal something behind his back and as he drew closer, we noticed he had a second gun tucked into his belt. Terrified, we leapt to our feet. Then, his face breaking into a smile, he held out the hand from behind his back. Lying in its brown sinewy palm were eleven pink oleander blossoms, one for each of us. A moment of sheer terror switched instantly to one of absolute delight. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Another example of ‘the unexpected’ occurred a few days later for a member of our group who had just turned eighty. All her life she had suffered with claustrophobia and its related anxiety and panic attacks. Consequently, when we visited the Great Pyramid to ascend the steep tunnel inside which would take us up to the King’s Chamber, we arranged for her to remain outside with our tour guide. But at the last minute she changed her mind, not wanting to miss out on such a special experience. By slowly crawling through the tunnel all the way up inside the Great Pyramid, she managed to achieve something she had never in her life believed possible. We celebrated her victory that night with champagne, lots of laughs and some hilarious attempts at belly dancing. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">A travel memory that always makes my grandchildren laugh is when I was visiting my friend Palden Jenkins, an historian who lives in Glastonbury. One day we set off for Snowdonia, North Wales, for a holiday. As we pulled up outside the 500-year-old stone cottage a farmer approached, urging us to be sure to leave a pot of tea outside every night for the Booka, the name given to Welsh brownies or elves. If we did this, he said, we would be assured of a hassle-free holiday. The Booka would not trouble us if we kept the cottage clean, left out the tea and didn’t have long noses. Words cannot describe the fun we two ‘grown-ups’ had in brewing tea every evening over an open fire to cater to the whims of Snowdonia’s faerie folk. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Travelling the world can create change in our lives that we will never regret, opening our hearts, broadening our minds, and sometimes transforming our lives forever. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">To quote Mark Twain, ‘Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you did not do than by the ones you did. So, sail away from the safe harbour. Explore. Dream. Discover.’</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">This wonderful story, including the images, was sent in by Over60 Reader Jo Buchanan. Thank you, Jo, for sharing your adventure with us!</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"><em>If you have a Reader Story you would like to contribute to Over60, please send it to the editor via <a href="mailto:greg@oversixty.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener">greg@oversixty.com.au</a>.</em> </span></p>

International Travel

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Aussie couple's epic 51-cruise journey

<p>In a remarkable journey that began in June 2022, Marty and Jess Ansen bid farewell to their Brisbane home and embarked on an adventure aboard the Coral Princess.</p> <p>Little did they know that this decision would forever change their lives.</p> <p>After experiencing 51 back-to-back cruises and 455 days at sea, the retirees assert that they have no plans to return, claiming that living permanently on the ship is "cheaper" than a retirement home. </p> <p>"It's become our way of life," Ms Ansen said during an interview with <em>A Current Affair.</em></p> <p>"Where else can you find such a diverse range of experiences?</p> <p>"You can enjoy a delightful dinner, catch an entertaining show, or dance the night away. During the day, there are countless activities to choose from. I particularly enjoy the hula dancing and the ballroom dancing."</p> <p>This is the couple's first marathon cruise adventure since the pandemic hit, and the couple couldn't wait to get back on the sea. </p> <p>"Eventually I said to my agent, 'Look, whatever comes, book it' and that's how it got to be such a long cruise," Mr Ansen added. </p> <p>The great-grandparents have spent so much time on board that they are on a first-name basis with the crew, and some of them even treat the couple as their work parents. </p> <p>"We're on board longer than anybody else. The wheels change over but we stay on board." Mr Ansen said.</p> <p>"We welcome the different captains on board."</p> <p>The couple has spent more time on board than even the ship's hotel manager, Ren van Rooyen.</p> <p>"We always make a joke that I go away and I come back and it's like coming to see my family - my mum and dad again - they're like my second mum and dad on board," van Rooyen said. </p> <p>"Everyone knows them around the ship, they're basically celebrities on board. Even the guests know them, they're local celebrities."</p> <p>The couple are loved by the crew on board, and just last month they surprised Ms Ansen for her birthday. </p> <p>While many wonder whether the couple would get bored spending so much time on a cruise, the pair said they have developed a routine, which involves an hour long game of table tennis first thing in the morning at 5:30am. </p> <p>"We do it together and we have a lot of fun," Ms Ansen said, adding that it was the perfect exercise to allow her to indulge in all the buffets on board. </p> <p>The pair have another eight months to go aboard the Coral Princess, before they disembark for a few months on dry land. </p> <p>The couple will then head off again for a year-long cruise aboard the Crown Princess.</p> <p>"We don't know how to wash up anymore, we don't know how to make a bed, because we haven't done it for so long. So now we have to stay on board just to stay alive!" Mr Ansen joked.</p> <p><em>Images: A Current Affair</em></p>

Cruising

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Miss World Australia finalist's heartbreaking cancer journey

<p>A Miss World Australia finalist has shared the warning signs she ignored before being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at the age of 27, and admitted she thought her life was over. </p> <p>Tirah Ciampa, from Tasmania's north west, began experiencing unusual symptoms last year, and admitted she should've taken them more seriously instead of dismissing them as common ailments. </p> <p>Writing on Facebook, she said, "It felt like I had been punched in the back." </p> <p>"I was constantly laying on the floor at work and going to physio. I thought I had hurt myself at the gym or maybe just slouching at my desk."</p> <p>Tirah said her heart rate would spike and she would suffer cramps randomly, prompting her to book more doctors appointments.      </p> <p>"I've been in and out of the doctors since November last year trying to work out what was happening," she explained. </p> <p>"I had a cardiologist looking after me but it wasn't until February when I was booked in for an abdominal ultrasound and that's when I saw the huge mass."</p> <p>Doctors found a 15cm x 15cm tumour inside Tirah's pancreas, which had already overtaken most of the organ. </p> <p>After receiving the devastating diagnosis, Tirah thought her life was over and started getting her affairs in order. </p> <p>Speaking candidly to <a href="https://www.couriermail.com.au/subscribe/news/1/?sourceCode=CMWEB_WRE170_a&amp;dest=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.couriermail.com.au%2Fnews%2Ftasmania%2Fmiss-world-australia-national-finalist-and-hobart-model-tirah-ciampa-opens-up-on-pancreatic-cancer-battle%2Fnews-story%2F6db8d44cde31725f29c4d15547f98073&amp;memtype=anonymous&amp;mode=premium&amp;v21=HIGH-Segment-8-SCORE" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>The Sunday Tasmanian</em></a>, she said, "I was writing letters to my loved ones, sorting out my superannuation, clearing out my laptop and spring cleaning."</p> <p>"I wanted to make sure my funeral would be paid for, that it would be an easy mess to clean up. I was getting ready to be gone."</p> <p>Since recovering from her surgery, Tirah began the gruelling process of extensive physiotherapy, and is now preparing to compete at the Miss World Australia national finals on the Gold Coast in August. </p> <p>Her health scare has prompted her to raise awareness for the condition, as she has urged others not to ignore mysterious symptoms.</p> <p>"Listen to your body! Especially women who put every weird feeling down to their menstrual cycle or hormones," she said.</p> <p>"Your body is a temple; it's all we have to live in this beautiful world. Don't take it for granted."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Caring

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Kochie’s wife pipes up on lengthy Sunrise journey

<p>In the wake of David “Kochie” Koch’s <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/the-world-s-best-job-kochie-quits-sunrise" target="_blank" rel="noopener">shocking departure</a> from <em>Sunrise</em>, his wife Libby has come forward to speak about the “sad” decision.</p> <p>Libby has been by Kochie's side during his entire 21-year run on the breakfast TV show and has witnessed some of the “pushback” he copped in his early days that led to a “love” of telling other people’s stories.</p> <p>“And this emotion that swept over both of us, it was really bittersweet, like, excited but sad too because it’s just been part of our lives for such a long time.”</p> <p>Libby shared that “come Saturday he is really tired” but will always have time for his four children and eight grandchildren.</p> <p>Despite the exhaustion, “he’s always there watching the (grandchildren’s) sport, always there for the kids and myself”.</p> <p>“That’s probably the thing that I’m the most proud of,” Libby said.</p> <p>“No matter how tired he was on the weekend, it was like: Right, it’s family time.”</p> <p>Libby noted that Kochie's father Dean would be “so proud” of his son for prioritising his family over his career, “even having this big gig of Sunrise and people knowing you”.</p> <p>“But the fact that he’s worked hard to just box (Sunrise) off and then have the weekend as family time,” Libby said.</p> <p>“I think his dad would be really proud of that.”</p> <p>As the pair started discussing “cutting back”, Libby revealed she encouraged Kochie by explaining to him, “I really hate seeing you this tired.”</p> <p>According to Libby, Kochie agreed, expressing how he “hated feeling this tired” and telling her, “Right, you’ve got to be the strong one.”</p> <p>“It’s really quite sort of sad and then it’ll become exciting, but yeah, but I’m never very good with goodbyes,” she said.</p> <p>Libby reflected on the debut of <em>Sunrise</em> in 2002, explaining it “was a bit of trial and error and then he started and found there was a bit of pushback for some of his style”.</p> <p>“When he introduced his joke of the day and there was a lot of pushback from certain sectors about what cheeky things he’d say.</p> <p>“But then the viewers started really responding and he was really relaxed in his style, often put his foot in it.</p> <p>“Viewers respond to that because they very quickly realised he’s just a regular bloke.”</p> <p>Libby shared that before her husband knew it, he “realised how much he was enjoying it because he’s a real talker”.</p> <p>“He loves people’s stories and he realised this was a great opportunity to talk to people and find out their stories,” she said.</p> <p>Libby shared that her highlight of Kochie's journey would “definitely be his and Mel’s coverage of the Beaconsfield mine disaster”.</p> <p>In 2006 Kochie secured the story of the century after a small earthquake caused a tunnel to collapse at the Beaconsfield mine in Tasmania, which saw multiple trapped and one dead, which <a href="http://xn--just%20a%20regular%20daggy%20dad%20who%20thinks%20hes%20so%20funny%20with%20his%20comments-5641dng2g./" target="_blank" rel="noopener">he spoke publicly</a> about for the first time seven years on.</p> <p>When miners Brant Webb and Todd Russell were found alive on the sixth day, Kochie and Melissa Doyle covered the story from the sidelines until they were rescued after 14 days unground.</p> <p>“What I was really proud of that viewers didn’t know is that he and Mel would go round to Todd Russell’s parents and his wife’s house and sit down and have a cup of tea and have dinner and talk with the kids,” Libby said.</p> <p>Libby said that at home Kochie is “just a regular daggy dad who thinks he’s so funny with his comments”.</p> <p>“Then when boyfriends came on the scene he thought, ‘Oh, it’s the thing to do to sit them down and have a chat?’</p> <p>“And we’re like ‘Over the top, Dave, over the top’.”</p> <p><em>Image credit: Instagram</em></p>

TV

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Unlocking the Silver Revolution: The Truth About Grey Hair and the Empowering Journey to Embrace the Grey

<p>In a recent poll by midlife connection organisation, Connected Women reveals that two-thirds of women over the age of 50 haven’t embraced their grey hair (67%). With hair starting to go grey in our 30s and 40s, that’s a long time to hide those pesky greys!</p> <p><strong>What causes grey hair? </strong></p> <p>According to Harvard Health, hair doesn’t ‘turn’ grey. Once a strand of hair is a particular colour, it will stay that way unless it is dyed. After the age of 35, hair follicles produce less colour, so when that strand of hair falls out it will be more likely to grow back grey.</p> <p><strong>Can stress cause grey hair? </strong></p> <p>There is very little evidence to indicate that this is true, however, research shows that in mice, in response to a fight or flight situation, hair follicles are impacted and the pigmentation-producing stem cells can be lost. Without stem cells available to produce pigment cells, the hair will go grey.</p> <p>So, can we now legitimately blame our grey hairs on our kids, or our husbands.</p> <p><strong>What happens when you pluck your grey hairs out? </strong></p> <p>Don’t do it! Not only will it simply grow back grey, but according to Trey Gillen, hairstylist and creative director of education at SACHAJUAN, doing so can also traumatise the follicles which could mean NO hair grows back.</p> <p><strong>When is the right time to go grey?</strong></p> <p>This is something that only you can decide. If your hair is dark brown or black, your greys will be more noticeable, so you’ll need to have regular (two to four weekly) trips to the hairdresser to cover them up. At some point you will most likely grow weary of trying to stem the tide and it will be time to just embrace the grey. You will know when you’ve had enough!</p> <p>If you have lighter hair, then your greys will be much less noticeable. Lighter hair gives you a much longer window between coloring appointments in the initial stages of going grey, and later you can use the greys as ‘herringbone highlights’ as per Sarah Jessica Parker’s beautiful mane, which is wonderful way to gracefully embrace going grey.</p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/05/Phoebe-headshot-EDITED.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: #212529;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Phoebe Adams is the founder of Connected Women, an organisation providing a community for women over 50 to connect with each other and build meaningful friendships. With a rapidly growing community in Perth, Sydney, Wollongong, and Melbourne, Connected Women provides a safe and welcoming space for women to come together and share experiences. To learn more about the organisation and how you can get involved, visit <a style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #258440; text-decoration-line: none; background-color: transparent; transition: all 0.2s ease-in-out 0s;" href="https://www.connectedwomen.net/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">connectedwomen.net</a>.</em></span></span></p> <p><em><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: #212529;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;">Image credits: Getty Images</span></span></span></span></em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Jimmy Barnes shares details of his recovery journey

<p>Jimmy Barnes has shared the gruelling details of his recovery journey after undergoing major surgery. </p> <p>The 66-year-old underwent major hip and back surgery in December, after explaining to fans that after nearly 50 years of “jumping off PAs and stomping around stages has “caught up” with him and he needed to do something to fix the “constant and severe pain.”</p> <p>Now, just three short weeks after the procedure, Jimmy is back on his feet and sharing his recovery process with his fans.</p> <p>The iconic singer said he was forced to be "patient" as he navigates his recovery, but this week hit a major milestone by being able to cycle on an exercise bike for 10 minutes a day. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cm_IUDyO_lU/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cm_IUDyO_lU/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Jimmy Barnes (@jimmybarnesofficial)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Jimmy's update comes just days after he shared a photo of him walking with a walking stick, saying he has been "sticking to the recovery program to the letter", while thanking his fans for "cheering me on".</p> <p>He joked that his wife Jane was acting as his personal physio, while sharing that he was off heavy pain medication and has "turned a big corner". </p> <p>On New Year's Day, Barnes shared he was able to walk to the top of a flight of stairs and back down again while unaided, saying "what a great start to the new year".</p> <p>Fans have been delighted by Jimmy's updates, with his posts being flooded with words of encouragement.</p> <p>One fan wrote, "Good on ya mate! We’re all cheering you on, Jimmy!"</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

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The world’s 10 best train journeys

<p><strong>10 best train trips in the world</strong></p> <p>Key to cost of rail trip (airfares &amp; extra accommodations not included).</p> <p>$ = less than $500</p> <p>$$ = between $500 and $1000</p> <p>$$$ = between $1000 and $2000</p> <p>$$$$ = between $2000 and $3000</p> <p>$$$$$ = more than $3000</p> <p><strong>The Royal Scotsman</strong></p> <p><em>Where</em>: Around the Scottish Highlands or all the way around Great Britain.</p> <p><em>When</em>: Warmer weather and up to 20 hours of daylight in June make it the perfect time to watch ospreys soaring over mirror-like lochs, or come in October for autumn colours and the rather vocal stag rutting season.</p> <p><em>Cost</em>: $$$$$</p> <p><em>Duration</em>: Trips into the Highlands can be as short as two days or as long as five. Seven days will get you all the way around Great Britain in the most stylish mode possible.</p> <p><em>Highlights</em>: Possibly the most expensive train journey in the world, you’ll be treated like a member of the monarchy. Indulgent cuisine, fine wines and cabins that look like guest rooms at Balmoral await those willing to part with a minimum of $3600 (approximately) for a two-night trip.</p> <p><strong>The Chepe</strong></p> <p><em>Where</em>: Mexico, starting in the mountains of Chihuahua and finishing on the Sinaloa coast.</p> <p><em>When</em>: In the rainy season, from June to October, you’ll get lush vegetation and blooming cacti, although mid-summer temperatures can reach 44°c.</p> <p><em>Cost</em>: $</p> <p><em>Duration</em>: Doing the route straight through takes fourteen hours, but you’ll want to stop off overnight and explore the very traditional towns along the way.</p> <p><em>Highlights</em>: The train winds its way down through 656km of the spectacularly beautiful Copper Canyon (which is deeper than the Grand Canyon), over 37 precarious-looking bridges and through 86 tunnels. The local indigenous peoples, the Tarahumara, sell their crafts and foods along the railway route.</p> <p><strong>The Ghan</strong></p> <p><em>Where</em>: Australia, from Adelaide to Darwin via Alice Springs.</p> <p><em>When</em>: Going during the wet season (the Australian summer) will allow you to see more wildlife and tropical splendour in the North, though peak season is usually the Australian winter.</p> <p><em>Cost</em>: $$$ – $$$$$</p> <p><em>Duration</em>: Going straight through takes 52 hours. There are disembarkation points throughout from which you can take tours.</p> <p><em>Highlights</em>: Going through Australia’s “Red Centre,” with cobalt-blue skies, red earth and not much else – a hauntingly beautiful and serene experience.</p> <p><strong>The Blue Train</strong></p> <p><em>Where</em>: South Africa, from Pretoria to Cape Town.</p> <p><em>When</em>: From May to August you’ll be more likely to observe big game from the train.</p> <p><em>Cost</em>: $$$ – $$$$</p> <p><em>Duration</em>: 27 hours on the train, with several stops and excursions along the way.</p> <p><em>Highlights</em>: You’ll be travelling through 1600k of diverse and naturally awesome African landscape in the utmost style, with stays on game reserves optional.</p> <p><strong>The Rocky Mountaineer</strong></p> <p><em>Where</em>: Canada, from Vancouver to Banff, Jasper and Calgary.</p> <p><em>When</em>: In June, which is springtime in the Rockies, complete with blooming flowers and abundant wildlife.</p> <p><em>Cost</em>: $$ – $$$$$</p> <p><em>Duration</em>: Between two and eight days, travelling only in daylight, staying in deluxe hotels.</p> <p><em>Highlights</em>: Unparalleled views of the Rocky Mountains, incredible luxury at every stage of the trip, onboard traditional native storytelling, wine appreciation classes, and natural history workshops.</p> <p><strong>Eastern and Oriental Express</strong></p> <p><em>Where</em>: From Thailand, through Malaysia, to Singapore.</p> <p><em>When</em>: April and May, for the least humid weather and lesser chance of monsoons.</p> <p><em>Cost</em>: $$$ – $$$$$</p> <p><em>Duration</em>: Trips vary from two to eight days.</p> <p><em>Highlights</em>: You’ll travel through the heart of Southeast Asia. From golden temples and paddy fields to cosmopolitan cities, this luxurious train showcases the best of the countries it passes through.</p> <p><strong>Royal Rajasthan on Wheels</strong></p> <p><em>Where</em>: India, a circuit through the Rajasthan region, from Delhi.</p> <p><em>When</em>: October – the weather is cool enough to be bearable and you’ll see the most wildlife from the train.</p> <p><em>Cost</em>: $$$$$</p> <p><em>Duration</em>: Eight days, which includes excursions throughout the route.</p> <p><em>Highlights</em>: You’ll be treated like royalty as you tour the majestic states and houses of this region. The train is decked out in indulgent Indian style, with décor and even an onboard spa.</p> <p><strong>The Ocean</strong></p> <p><em>Where</em>: Canada, from Montreal to Halifax.</p> <p><em>When</em>: In early October, when you’ll travel through glorious autumn colours and still be able to ride the Sleeper Touring Class train before it is taken off the route for the off-season.</p> <p><em>Cost</em>: $$</p> <p><em>Duration</em>: 22 hours, overnight on the train in a sleeper cabin.</p> <p><em>Highlights</em>: The train passes through rural communities in Quebec, along beaches as it goes down through New Brunswick and through Nova Scotian countryside. There’s no prettier way to travel to the Maritimes.</p> <p><strong>The Hiram Bingham</strong></p> <p><em>Where</em>: Peru, from Cusco to Machu Picchu.</p> <p><em>When</em>: May – you’ll miss both the rainy season and the crowds that come in the high season, which runs from June to September.</p> <p><em>Cost</em>: $$</p> <p><em>Duration</em>: The trip takes one day. Brunch is served on the way to Machu Picchu, guests receive a guided tour of the ancient citadel, and then dinner is served on the return journey.</p> <p><em>Highlights</em>: The train winds its way through the Andes, crossing the wild Urubamba River, giving unsurpassed views of this region.</p> <p><strong>The Bergen Railway</strong></p> <p><em>Where</em>: Norway, from Oslo to Stavanger.</p> <p><em>When</em>: This train runs from May to September. In late June/early July you’ll experience the midnight sun.</p> <p><em>Cost</em>: $</p> <p><em>Duration</em>: Between three and five days, depending on how many overnights you wish to do.</p> <p><em>Highlights</em>: The biggest cities in Norway, plus majestic Lysefjord and wild Norwegian coastline. You’ll also get to look down over the fjords from the Pulpit Rock, a shelf towering 604 metres above the glassy waters.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/travel/the-worlds-10-best-train-journeys?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.</em></p>

Travel Tips

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Travel beyond the ordinary with Globus Journeys

<p><span lang="EN">Pack your bags and prepare to tick the USA and Canada off your bucket list. With </span><span lang="EN"><a href="https://www.globus.com.au/deals/au/2023-north-america-promotion?&utm_medium=native&utm_source=over60&utm_campaign=globus-2023-nam-oct&utm_content=native-article-link" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Globus</a></span><span lang="EN">, it’s time to immerse yourself in travel. It’s not just a holiday – it’s an experience with memories to last a lifetime.</span></p> <p><span lang="EN">For more than 90 years, Globus has been sharing the world with travellers, setting the gold standard for award-winning tours across virtually every continent. Pairing unrivalled knowledge with superior accommodation, authentic cuisine, VIP sight-seeing and unique insider experiences, you get to say hello to the United States and Canada as you’ve never seen them before, on a journey beyond ordinary!</span></p> <p><span lang="EN">Soak up everything this part of the world has to offer on a first-class, escorted Globus journey, </span><span lang="EN"><a href="https://www.globus.com.au/deals/au/2023-north-america-promotion?&utm_medium=native&utm_source=over60&utm_campaign=globus-2023-nam-oct&utm_content=native-article-link" target="_blank" rel="noopener">with a huge saving of up to $1,000</a></span><span lang="EN"> (per couple) for a limited time on 2023 tours.</span></p> <p><span lang="EN">From the majestic mountains of the Canadian Rockies to America's colourful Southern States, Globus has more than 50 North America itineraries to choose from – so you’re sure to find the perfect one to line up with your dream holiday.</span></p> <p><span lang="EN">In fact, if you're anything like us, your US and Canadian travel bucket list is easily a mile long. So to help get you started, here are our <strong>Favourite Five destinations</strong> we are itching to see at least once in our lifetimes. If you haven't been, now is the time to stop dreaming and start planning!</span></p> <p><span lang="EN"><strong>Favourite Five:</strong></span></p> <p><span lang="EN"><strong><span lang="EN">1. Monument Valley, Arizona:</span></strong><span lang="EN"><strong> </strong></span></span></p> <p><span lang="EN"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/Arizona.jpg" alt="" width="792" height="515" /></span></p> <p><span lang="EN">Located on the Utah-Arizona state line, Navajo Nation’s Monument Valley hosts unique crimson sandstone and rock formations that have been sculpted by time. These natural masterpieces soar through the sky and are framed by the beautiful clouds casting shadows that project onto the rich dessert ground. Experience one of the most breathtaking points on earth – not to mention one of the world’s most-photographed natural wonders. The rocks are surrounded by an abundance of beautiful nature and – of course – peaceful serenity.</span></p> <p><span lang="EN"><strong><span lang="EN">2. Bourbon Street, New Orleans:</span></strong><span lang="EN"> </span></span></p> <p><span lang="EN"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/Bourbon-St.jpg" alt="" width="819" height="523" /></span></p> <p><span lang="EN">Looking for the life of the party? Look no further than Bourbon Street in the historic centre of New Orleans’ French Quarter. You’re bound to hear music on every corner as the popular strip lights up under a neon glow day-in and day-out. Famous for its intoxicating atmosphere, Bourbon Street will immediately have you buzzing and coming back for more.</span></p> <p><span lang="EN"><strong style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px;">3. Banff National Park, Canadian Rockies:</span></strong><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px;"> </span></span></p> <p><span lang="EN"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/Banff-Canada.jpg" alt="" width="778" height="533" /></span></p> <p><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px;">Visit the flagship of Canada’s picture-perfect scenery and immerse yourself in a vast range of activities including hiking, biking, skiing, camping and much more. Experience beautiful scenery, lux accommodation and bask in the beauty of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.</span></p> <p><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px;"><strong style="font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span lang="EN">4. Denali National Park, Alaska:</span></strong><span lang="EN" style="font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: medium;"> </span></span></p> <p><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px;"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/Alaska6.jpg" alt="" width="761" height="452" /></span></p> <p><span lang="EN">Denali sprawls out across six million vast unspoiled acres of wilderness and is home to the tallest peak in North America, Mt McKinley. </span><span lang="EN">Here you’ll find an abundance of native wildlife including moose, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves. Compare the different park roads and discover which is best for you and your sight-seeing adventure – but keep in mind you don’t have to set a limit; with an array of different activities you’ll find yourself at one with the wilderness in no time.</span></p> <p><span lang="EN"><strong><span lang="EN">5. Washington, DC:</span></strong><span lang="EN"><strong> </strong></span></span></p> <p><span lang="EN"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/Washington1.jpg" alt="" width="742" height="458" /></span></p> <p><span lang="EN">From monuments to memorials, explore the Nation’s capital and learn a thing or two about its rich historic background. Washington offers a host of different experiences to suit everyone. You certainly won’t run out of things to do with Washington ranking in the top 5 best cities of America in 2022. </span></p> <p><span lang="EN">Give yourself something to look forward to with a Globus undiscovered journey and go off-the-beaten-path, or design your days your way with Choice Touring by Globus. You’ll have to see it to believe it! Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime as Globus connects you with places, people and experiences that will ignite your passion for travel all over again.</span></p> <p><span lang="EN"><a href="https://www.globus.com.au/deals/au/2023-north-america-promotion?&utm_medium=native&utm_source=over60&utm_campaign=globus-2023-nam-oct&utm_content=native-article-link" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Book a 2023 Globus North America tour by 31 October</a></span><span lang="EN"> 2022 and save up to $1,000 per couple!</span></p> <p><span lang="EN">This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with </span><span lang="EN"><a href="https://www.globus.com.au/deals/au/2023-north-america-promotion?&utm_medium=native&utm_source=over60&utm_campaign=globus-2023-nam-oct&utm_content=native-article-link" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Globus</a></span><span lang="EN">.</span></p> <p><em><span lang="EN">Images: Supplied</span></em></p>

International Travel

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"Last great journey": Queen’s coffin arrives in Edinburgh

<p dir="ltr">Queen Elizabeth II's coffin arrived in Edinburgh on Sunday following a six-hour journey from her summer home in the Scottish Highlands.</p> <p dir="ltr">Her solemn arrival was greeted by thousands of people at the city's Royal Mile; Her Majesty's body will remain there for two days to allow people to pay their final respects.</p> <p dir="ltr">The queen's daughter Anne and her sons, Princes Andrew and Edward, curtsied and bowed as the coffin was carried inside by soldiers from the Royal Regiment of Scotland.</p> <p dir="ltr">This is just ahead of the Queen’s state funeral at Westminster Abbey in London on September 19.</p> <p dir="ltr">Following her <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/queen-elizabeth-ii-dead-at-96" target="_blank" rel="noopener">death</a>, the Queen's son, King Charles III, spoke of her long 70-year reign.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Her dedication and devotion as Sovereign never wavered, through times of change and progress, through times of joy and celebration, and through times of sadness and loss,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">He also spoke about looking forward to following in his mother’s footsteps.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply,” King Charles III continued.</p> <p dir="ltr">"But I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others.</p> <p dir="ltr">"And to my darling Mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear late Papa, I want simply to say this: Thank you.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years.</p> <p dir="ltr">"May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

International Travel

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Prince Harry discusses his mental health journey in candid interview

<p dir="ltr">Prince Harry has shared a rare insight into his mental health journey in a candid interview. </p> <p dir="ltr">The interview, which has been published on YouTube for Silicon Valley tech start-up BetterUp, shows the Duke of Sussex taking on the role of interviewer as he declared "we all have greatness within us".</p> <p dir="ltr">"Mental fitness helps us unlock it. It's an ongoing practice, one where you approach your mind as something to flex, not fix," Prince Harry said.</p> <p dir="ltr">Harry joined BetterUp in March last year as its chief impact officer, in what is believed to be one of the duke's first paying roles in his new life of "financial freedom" away from the royal family.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Throughout the years of travelling around the world, what I saw was the similarities of experiences of trauma, of loss, of grief, of being human," Prince Harry said in the clip.</p> <p dir="ltr">"That building up of resilience is absolutely critical."</p> <p dir="ltr">Prince Harry spoke with Olympic gold medallist snowboarder Chloe Kim, BetterUp member Blu Mendoza and psychologist Adam Grant in the video, as he quizzed them about building their own “mental fitness”. </p> <p dir="ltr">"What does the term mental fitness mean to you?" Harry asked.</p> <p dir="ltr">Grant said, "Everyone is aware that if they don't take care of their bodies, that their functioning is going to suffer. I don't think we have the same awareness around mental fitness."</p> <p dir="ltr">Speaking to Grant, Harry asked: "How can we create more resilience for people, not just a better version of themselves at work but a better version for their partners, their families and their whole community?"</p> <p dir="ltr">"We all want to grow, but it's hard to do that on our own," Grant said.</p> <p dir="ltr">The interview was given as part of his work for BetterUp, with Harry saying the world was on the cusp of a "mental health awakening" and people are realising they should resign if their work "didn't bring them joy".</p> <p dir="ltr">You can check out the entire interview below. </p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iW65lB1IuSM" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p><em><span id="docs-internal-guid-5c547d7c-7fff-9c0a-074b-6ac057d40295">Image credits: YouTube - BetterUp</span></em></p>

Mind

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“We thought this day may not come”: Kate Langbroek gives update on son’s cancer journey

<p dir="ltr">Radio star and comedian Kate Langbroek has shared an emotional update on her eldest son Lewis’ cancer journey.</p> <p dir="ltr">The mum-of-four gave fans an update during Thursday’s episode of <em>3pm Pick Up </em>on KIIS FM and was full of praise for the medical care Lewis has received since being diagnosed with leukaemia when he was six.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We went through all that treatment and rarely paid for anything - that is the magnificence of the country we live in, and the magnificence of taxpayers,” Lanbroek said.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-7af5441e-7fff-1814-8536-91f157d3c316"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">After suffering through four years of “terrible” treatment, the now-18-year-old has been going to the “amazing” Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne with his mum for regular check-ups to monitor his health.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CYnZoASvKx6/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CYnZoASvKx6/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Kate Langbroek (@katelangbroek)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">After his annual check-up on Monday, Langbroek said that for the first time, she was sent out of the room several times to give him privacy as he disrobed.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It was so strange! But it’s great because it means that he’s a grown-up,” she told co-host Monty Dimond.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Anyway, they told us, ‘This is the last time we’ll be seeing you at this hospital, because Lewis is transitioning to an adult hospital’. I thought, ‘Oh my goodness, there were so many times where we thought this day may not come’. You’re confronted with what the course of his illness looked like, and there were times when we thought, ‘I don’t see how we can make it through this’.</p> <p dir="ltr">“And there we were - being DISMISSED by the beautiful doctors and being sent on our way,” she said with a laugh.</p> <p dir="ltr">Langbroek added that the annual check-ups were often surprisingly emotional as they bumped into hospital workers who had cared for Lewis when he was severely ill, revealing that their last visit saw a nurse who had treated Lewis approach them in the cafe.</p> <p dir="ltr">“She said, ‘I looked at you when you were little and you were really sick. We never wanted to tell you this at the time, but we were so worried about you. We worried you might not make it’,” Langbroek recalled.</p> <p dir="ltr">“She had tears in her eyes, I had tears in my eyes - and Lewis is just standing there like a big doofus.”</p> <p dir="ltr">She said the encounter made her realise how important bringing a “good news story” back to the hospital was for both staff and patients, with the success of Lewis’ treatment being one good example.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-61a7cbb8-7fff-5eee-0adb-1ea455d5430e"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“I just love him, I love him,” she said.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CY-kie0PVDL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CY-kie0PVDL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Kate Langbroek (@katelangbroek)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Langbroek has previously spoken about her son’s journey through numerous checkups and appointments, sharing an update with fans on Instagram in January.</p> <p dir="ltr">“My eldest boyo got a good checkup on his thyroid,” she wrote. “How brilliant to hear the endocrinologist say ‘normal, normal, normal, normal, normal, normal, good!’”</p> <p dir="ltr">The mother-son duo celebrated with Lewis driving (to Langbroek’s praise and nervousness expressed in emojis) to see his grandmother, and with Langbroek getting her first facial in years - “so now we are glowing inside and out”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Thank you friends, for your words of love and solidarity in my previous post. Every prayer is appreciated. Every day is precious.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-65c4947d-7fff-8995-5f68-8b2788380a06"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: @katelangbroek (Instagram)</em></p>

Caring

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MasterChef's Julie Goodwin opens up about mental health journey

<p>Julie Goodwin, returning MasterChef champion, got amazingly candid about her mental health issues in Thursday’s episode of the popular cooking show – even confessing that she wasn’t sure if she was up for returning for this Fans Vs Faves season.</p> <p>Goodwin's career has bubbled along quite nicely since winning season one of MasterChef back in 2009. But then in early 2020 she filled fans in on the reason for her sudden five-week absence from her breakfast radio job, explaining that she had spent more than a month in a mental health facility to get treatment for depression and anxiety.</p> <p>Goodwin, who had fans rallying after a nervous first cook during Monday’s MasterChef season premiere, said that her post-win journey had been a mix of “amazing highs” along with “struggles as well.”</p> <p>“I had to do some serious assessment of my mental health and wellbeing … I’d reached a point in my life where I lost my joy. I had to give up my job on the radio – I couldn’t do that anymore – and I actually couldn’t set foot in my kitchen,” she revealed.</p> <p>At one point, Goodwin thought she may have been done with her cooking career forever. There was however a lingering question that lured her back for another season of MasterChef.</p> <p>“I think maybe I have done everything that I was here to do, and I have achieved everything that’s possible for me to achieve … so this for me is an opportunity to see if there’s another chapter. If there’s more,” she said.</p> <p>It seems there is, later in the episode, Goodwin was overcome with emotion when the judges announced her as the winner of the first immunity challenge.</p> <p>“To stand here and cook a dish and have it be deemed worthy … maybe I’m not done. Maybe there’s more for me.”</p> <p><em>Image: Channel 10 </em></p>

Food & Wine

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The real reason for Adele's weight-loss journey

<p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p>Adele opens up about her weight loss journey in an intimate interview with Oprah Winfrey.</p> <p>In the<em><span> </span>Adele: One Night Only TV special</em><span> </span>which aired last night in the U.S, the British singer discussed her 100-pound (45kg) weight loss with the talk-show queen, saying it was “never” about “becoming skinny” but feeling stronger after her divorce from Simon Konecki.</p> <p>“Once I realised that I had a lot of work to do on myself, I stopped drinking and I started working out a lot….to keep me sort of centred,” she recalled in the interview.</p> <p>Adele revealed she suffered from “terrifying anxiety attacks” that “paralysed” her completely when her two-year marriage ended in 2019.</p> <p>The couple, who had been together since 2011 and shared son Angelo, nine, finalised their divorce in January this year. Soon after they split, Adele relied heavily on working with a trainer in the gym to ease her anxiety.</p> <p>“It became my me time,” she said. “Me having a plan every day….having these sorts of pins in my day, helped me keep myself together.”</p> <p>Adele stressed that she “wasn’t bothered about [weight] at all” and her work at the gym simply “contributed to getting [her] mind right”. Because of this, she was able to push aside criticism that came with her recent weight loss.</p> <p>“I’m not susprised or disturbed by any of the [weight comments] because my body has been objectified throughout my career,” she said, “But it’s not my job to make people feel validated by their bodies.”</p> <p>Elsewhere in the Oprah interview, Adele admitted it was hard coming to terms with being a single parent.</p> <p>"It's a process. You know, the process of a divorce, the process of being a single parent," she said. "The process of not seeing your child every single day wasn't really a plan that I had when I became a mum. The process of arriving for yourself every day, turning up for yourself every single day and still running a home, running a business.</p> <p>"So many people know what I'm talking about and I feel like that as well. I juggle those things as well. I felt like not doing it anymore. And also trying to move forward with intention, not just trying to get out of it for no reason. It made my feet hurt, walking through all that concrete.”</p>

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EXCLUSIVE: Wai-Sai shares her Making It journey

<p dir="ltr">The latest episode of<span> </span><em>Making It Australia</em><span> </span>saw Makers embrace food, designing paired food costumes and creating tasty self-portraits.</p> <p dir="ltr">Hot temperatures only increased the difficulty of the challenges, with Sai-Wai’s candy-melt hands and Dan’s sugar glue falling through.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUKTUtXBxGu/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUHrxI_BMW8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Making It Australia (@makingitau)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr"><span>George took out the Master Craft with her intricate self-portrait using foods starting with G, and Rizaldy and Dan won the first challenge with their fish’n’chips paired costumes.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0; width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx; max-height: 100%;" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUKPJJStWF8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUKPJJStWF8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" target="_blank">Shared post</a> on Time</p> </div> </blockquote> <div style="position: absolute; width: 92%; bottom: 2px; left: 0; right: 0; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; color: #000; text-align: center;"> <p>5 Best VPNs to <a rel="nofollow" href="https://arablionz.cc/">arablionz</a> Vudu Abroad (Outside USA) in 2020</p> </div> <p dir="ltr">But, one person had to leave the show.</p> <p dir="ltr">After being eliminated in a shock announcement, Sai-Wai sat down with<span> </span><em>OverSixty</em><span> </span>to answer our crafty questions and share her plans following her time on the show.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What was the highlight of being a Maker?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Just being around like-minded people. Meeting that tribe of weird little misfits.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: It seemed like you all had such a great bond on the show as well.</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Yeah, yeah we did. Honestly it was pretty much immediate.</p> <p dir="ltr">Quite a few of us were from Melbourne, and I remember even that first day, when we were flying up to Sydney… I remember being at the airport just [thinking] ‘I wonder if anyone from Melbourne is going to be on the show’ and just looking around and I clocked Russell straight away…. Russell had their little sequined backpack and I was like ‘Oh! Fabulous’.</p> <p dir="ltr">I think when we landed I saw that Steph had been sitting right in front of me and she had this fabulous pink handbag. And then I think the next person I noticed was Jack when we landed because Jack had some amazing floral pants.</p> <p dir="ltr">We just knew who our people were. It was really funny.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What surprised you most about your<span> </span></strong><strong><em>Making It</em></strong><strong><span> </span>experience?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">How kind of comfortable I was at doing it. I think it says a lot about the professionalism of the people we were working with, in terms of the crew, that they made the whole thing really comfortable and… made me feel really, really at ease. That I could be myself.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: On the show, you created pieces that reflected your Asian heritage, could you tell us a bit more about what it was like to represent Asian creatives on the show?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">I think that one of my main drives to actually go on the show was to kind of represent Asian creatives. And I think once I met... everyone else who was part of the show, I was really happy to see that there was a breadth of age, experience, and diversity as well on lots of different fronts, and that was really refreshing.</p> <p dir="ltr">I think coming from a migrant background as well … I think it’s one of those things that’s coming from a place of love from your parents where they want you to be a particular thing because they’ve worked so hard to get to a point, and if you are outside that mould, that can be quite difficult. So, I think there’s a lot of Asian creatives that do have that experience, and either had to go into the field they don’t necessarily feel passionate about to please somebody else, or [push against it to pursue] that dream.</p> <p dir="ltr">Just being able to showcase my background and tell that story as well. And I think a lot of my art practice explores my sense of place as part of the Chinese diaspora, as well. It’s all tied in there, I can’t extract it from my work or part of my experience. It’s part of who I am.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What’s next for you after<span> </span></strong><strong><em>Making It</em></strong><strong>?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">It’s been quite an interesting journey. So after we finished filming, I had a bit of a break, and I had an exhibition up in Sydney open, [and] managed to get a road trip in, then came back and managed to get some freelance work with the wardrobe department of an American reality series that was filming in Melbourne… I think that screens next year.</p> <p dir="ltr">And at the moment I’m working towards an exhibition in November… I’ll have an exhibition in Melbourne in about November.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60:<span> </span></strong><strong>It looks like you’re now tending to the barn’s garden now that you have been eliminated, can you give us an insight into what’s been happening behind the scenes with the eliminated Makers?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Yeah, so hanging out there. So Harley and Susie have locked us in the shed and they trot us out every week. But yeah, looking after the garden, I’m quite happy with that.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: Last but not least, if you had the chance, would you do it again?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Oh yeah, yeah. It was fun!</p> <p dir="ltr">It was really fun, and honestly, I would say that you know, if there’s going to be a season two and anyone thinks of applying, just do it.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Making It Australia<span> </span></em>returns next week on Wednesday night.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image:<span> </span><span>@makingitau / Instagram</span></em></p>

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Tracy Grimshaw reflects on her 16-year journey on A Current Affair

<p>Every Monday for the last 16 years, Tracy Grimshaw has welcomed viewers to A Current Affair, which has fast become one of the most incisive public affairs shows in Australian television history.</p> <p>But despite all the accolades and criticism that comes with the job, the host says the first day back is similar to riding a bike - especially after a tumultuous year like 2020.</p> <p>"Last year it was a sprint every day and the year was a marathon," Grimshaw told 9Now.</p> <p>"I think particularly at the start of the pandemic, it was a really critical time for journalism. It was an important time for good journalism.</p> <p>"We had a very tense few months at the start when there was this hunger for information, and we didn't know much about how the virus would pan out.</p> <p>"But towards the end of the year we did a handful of shows where we didn't mention the virus at all. It becomes really organic."</p> <p>Grimshaw began presenting A Current Affair in 2006, replacing Ray Martin as anchor after nine years alongside Steve Liebmann, and later Karl Stefanovic, as the co-host of Today.</p> <p>With the pandemic changing the face of the world in 2020, newsrooms began to switch up their format.</p> <p>"As it started to take hold in March and April there was this massive thirst for information, and for credible information," says Grimshaw.</p> <p>"And that became our job, to try and feed that hunger. Knowledge is power and the more you know the more calm you can be, the less frightened you'll be."</p> <p>A Current Affair is widely known to champion the causes felt by the average Aussie, which is why they were suddenly expected to reveal what is fact and what is fiction when it came to information surrounding the virus.</p> <p>"I think for all of us, it wasn't just about myth busting, even though that is important. I think it all comes under the banner of reliable information. And what we saw last year was an explosion of unreliable information," Grimshaw says.</p> <p>"We had people pushing their own agendas, and it was part of our job to try and cut through what felt like an unwieldy amount of information that was coming in from around the world on the virus.</p> <p>"It was our job to make sure that the people we talked to knew their stuff. That every expert we called literally the best in their field."</p> <p>While much of the year was spent wading through the best – and mostly the worst – of the pandemic, there was still the magic that makes<span> </span><em>A Current Affair</em><span> </span>so riveting: from warring neighbours hosing down reporters to dodgy tradies, it was all there.</p>

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Backyard pilgrimages become the way to a spiritual journey thanks to COVID

<p>Many major religious pilgrimages have been canceled or curtailed in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. These have included the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/23/world/middleeast/hajj-pilgrimage-canceled.html">Hajj</a>, a religious milestone for Muslims the world over; the Hindu pilgrimage, known as the <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-india/india-cancels-historic-hindu-pilgrimage-as-coronavirus-cases-mount-idUSKCN24N14P">Amarnath Yatra</a> high in the mountains of Kashmir; and <a href="https://www.orderofmalta.int/2020/03/12/coronavirus-cancelled-the-62nd-pilgrimage-to-lourdes-and-all-international-conferences/">pilgrimages to Lourdes</a> in France.</p> <p>Pilgrims have faced travel delays and cancellations for centuries. Reasons ranged from financial hardship and agricultural responsibilities to what is now all too familiar to modern-day pilgrims – plague or ill health.</p> <p>Then, as now, one strategy has been to bring the pilgrimage home or into the religious community.</p> <p><strong>Journey of a thousand miles</strong></p> <p>Pilgrimage can be an interior or outward journey and while <a href="https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/003043429">individual motivations may vary</a>, it can be an act of religious devotion or a way to seek closeness with the divine.</p> <p>Through the centuries and across cultures, those who longed to go on a sacred journey would find <a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/1594960?seq=1">alternative ways to do so</a>.</p> <p>Reading travel narratives, tracing a map with the finger or eye, or <a href="https://www.britishmuseumshoponline.org/matter-of-faith-an-interdisciplinary-study-of-relics-and-relic-veneration-in-the-medieval-period.html">holding a souvenir</a> brought back from a sacred site helped facilitate a real sense of travel for the homebound pilgrim. Through these visual or material aids, people felt as though they, too, were having a pilgrimage experience, and even connecting with others.</p> <p>One such example is the story of the Dominican friar Felix Fabri, who was known for recording his own pilgrimages in various formats, some geared toward the laity and some for his brothers.</p> <p>Fabri was approached in the 1490s by a group of cloistered nuns, meaning that they had professed vows to lead a contemplative life in the quietude of their community. They desired a <a href="https://muse.jhu.edu/article/261870/pdf">devotional exercise</a> so they could receive the spiritual benefits of pilgrimage without having to break their promise of a life that was sheltered from the outside world.</p> <p>He produced “Die Sionpilger,” a virtual pilgrimage in the form of a day-to-day guidebook to Santiago de Compostela, Jerusalem and Rome. In these cities, pilgrims would encounter sites and scenes associated with many facets of their religion: shrines to honor Jesus and the saints, relics, great cathedrals and sacred landscapes associated with miraculous events and stories.</p> <p>Fabri’s guidebook sent the pilgrim on an imaginative journey of a thousand miles, without having to take a single step.</p> <p><strong>DIY pilgrimages</strong></p> <p>My current <a href="https://carepackagegtu.wordpress.com/2020/07/01/spotlight-barush/">book project</a> shows that from Lourdes to South Africa, from Jerusalem to England, from Ecuador to California, DIY pilgrimages are not just a medieval phenomenon. One such example is Phil Volker’s backyard Camino.</p> <p>Volker is a 72-year-old father and now grandfather, woodworker and veteran who mapped the Camino de Santiago onto his backyard in Vashon Island in the Pacific Northwest. Volker prays the rosary as he walks: for those who have been impacted by the pandemic, his family, his neighbors, the world.</p> <p>After a cancer diagnosis in 2013, a few things came together to inspire Volker to build a backyard Camino, including the film “<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/07/movies/the-way-directed-by-emilio-estevez-review.html">The Way</a>,” a pocket-sized book of meditations, “<a href="https://annieoneil.com/">Everyday Camino With Annie</a>” by Annie O'Neil and <a href="https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/M/bo5974687.html">the story of Eratosthenes</a>, the Greek polymath from the second century B.C. who figured out a way to measure the circumference of the Earth using the Sun, a stick and a well.</p> <p>“For me, this guy was the grand godfather of do-it-yourselfers. How can someone pull off this kind of a caper with things at hand in his own backyard? It got me thinking, what else can come out of one’s backyard?,” he told me.</p> <p>Volker began walking a circuitous route around his 10-acre property on Vashon Island in the Pacific Northwest. It was a chance to exercise, which his doctors had encouraged, but also created a space to think and pray.</p> <p>Each lap around the property is just over a half-mile. Realizing that he was covering quite a distance, he found a map of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route to track his progress, calculating that 909 laps would get him from St. Jean Pied-de-Port to the Cathedral of St. James.</p> <p>To date, Volker has completed three 500-mile Caminos without leaving his backyard.</p> <p>Thanks to a <a href="http://philscamino.com/">documentary film</a>, Volker’s <a href="http://caminoheads.com/">daily blog</a> and an <a href="https://www.nwcatholic.org/features/nw-stories/vashon-camino-pilgrimage">article</a> in the magazine “Northwest Catholic,” the backyard Camino has attracted many visitors, some simply curious but many who are seeking healing and solace.</p> <p><strong>Pilgrimage and remembrance</strong></p> <p>The story of Volker’s backyard Camino inspired Sara Postlethwaite, a sister of the Verbum Dei Missionary Fraternity, to map <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/travel/ireland/go-walk-st-kevin-s-way-co-wicklow-1.553577">St. Kevin’s Way</a>, a 19-mile pilgrimage route in County Wicklow, Ireland onto a series of daily 1.5-mile circuits in Daly City, California.</p> <p>The route rambles along roads and countryside from Hollywood to the ruins of the monastery that St. Kevin, a sixth-century abbot, had founded in Glendalough. Postlethwaite had intended to travel back to her native Ireland in the spring of 2020 to walk the route in person, but due to pandemic-related travel restrictions, she brought the pilgrimage to her home in Daly City.</p> <p>Every so often, Postlethwaite would check in on Google Maps to see where she was along the Irish route, pivoting the camera to see surrounding trees or, at one point, finding herself in the center of an old stone circle.</p> <p>Several joined Postlethwaite’s walk in solidarity, both in the U.S. and overseas.</p> <p>After each day’s walk, she paused at the shed at her community house, where she had drawn a to-scale version of the Market Cross at Glendalough.</p> <p>As Postlethwaite traced the intersecting knots, circles and image of the crucified Christ with her chalk, she reflected not just on the suffering caused by the pandemic but also about issues of racism, justice and privilege. In particular, she remembered <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/article/ahmaud-arbery-shooting-georgia.html">Ahmaud Arbery</a>, a Black jogger shot by two white men in a fatal confrontation in February 2020. She inscribed his name on the chalk cross.</p> <p>For Berkeley-based artist <a href="https://www.maggiepreston.com/">Maggie Preston</a>, a DIY chalk labyrinth on the street outside her house became a way to connect with her neighbors and her three-year-old son. There is a link here with the medieval strategies for bringing longer pilgrimages into the church or community. <a href="https://www.luc.edu/medieval/labyrinths/imaginary_pilgrimage.shtml">Scholars have suggested</a> that labyrinths may have been based on maps of Jerusalem, providing a scaled-down version of a much longer pilgrimage route.</p> <p>They started out by chalking in the places they could no longer go – the aquarium, the zoo, a train journey – and then created a simple labyrinth formed by a continuous path in seven half-circles.</p> <p>“A labyrinth gave us a greater destination, not just somewhere to imagine going, but a circuitous path to literally travel with our feet,” she told me.</p> <p>As neighbors discovered the labyrinth, it began to create a genuine sense of community akin to that which many seek to find when they embark on a much longer pilgrimage.</p> <p><strong>‘Relearn to pretend’</strong></p> <p>Volker’s cancer has progressed to stage IV and he celebrated his 100th chemo treatment back in 2017, but he is still walking and praying on a regular basis. He offers the following advice:</p> <p>“For folks starting their own backyard Camino I think that creating the myth is the most important consideration. Study maps, learn to pronounce the names of the towns, walk in the dust and the mud, be out there in the rain, drink their wine and eat their food, relearn to pretend.”</p> <p><em>Written by Kathryn Barush. Republished with permission of <a href="https://theconversation.com/as-coronavirus-curtails-travel-backyard-pilgrimages-become-the-way-to-a-spiritual-journey-143518">The Conversation.</a> </em></p>

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