Mina

Hi Kay:<BR><BR>No, I don't mind you asking...although I don't like to post too much personal info here. But I guess this won't hurt...<BR><BR>A few years ago, I found out that my parents applied for government help. My dad is ill, so there are some disability benefits. They even applied for food stamps. FOOD STAMPS! I wigged out when I found out. I told my mom we aren't on welfare, and that's why I work! We should leave the money to the people who need it, yada yada yada. <BR><BR>I always joked we were poor yellow trash when we were growing up. We lived in nice part of town, but never had much money. So it was with some pride that I was able to take care of my parents, with money left over to spare.<BR><BR>But I realized that my parents ARE poor (I use that word loosely...we are not on skid row). Should I croak tomorrow, they wouldn't have much. So who deserves government help more than them? They worked hard and honestly in this country for 30 years.<BR><BR>So to answer your question Kay, they get a little bit of help. The process of getting assistance took years, and they had to jump through quite a few hoops. Only a few months ago did my dad start getting checks. It's not much, but it would put food on the table should something happen to me.<BR><BR>And like I said, I've always got that little brother as backup.

LCUY

Hi Mina--- from Aus to Europe...good for you! Having spent several summers and an extended trip in europe in years past, I would also recommend the youth hostel plan. They are not just for 20 year olds, are often in really great parts of the cities (or villages), and often are in very historic buildings. the best part though, is that you will hook up with other travelers. You may spend an evening with someone, or may end up travelling together for a while, or might just get a few good tips on your next destination. Best of all, you're charged only for one person, and have some security in the group setting. on nights when you just need a private room, splurge and stay in a B&amp;B. If you liked the atmosphere at Sydney harbor B&amp;B, you will like youth hostels!

Sonia

Hi Mina<BR><BR>How are you? This is fantastic news. I guess London just wasn't enough eh? Glad you've taken the decision to pack in your job, I wish I had the guts, I really do.<BR><BR>If you need any info on Florence, send me a pm if you still have the address. Afraid I'm not going to Barcelona until May so you might be helping me out with that one!<BR><BR>Take care<BR><BR>Sonia

Anon

Mina,<BR>I am admire your way of thinking so much when it comes to working and taking care of yourself and now your parents! What a shame those values are lacking in so many people all over this country. Everyone wants someone else to help them instead of doing whatever they can to help themselves.<BR>You are a good daughter and a good person and you should be very proud of yourself.

Jim

Mina,<BR>Have you considered being a free lance travel writer?<BR>You are a very talented writer as evidenced by your recent trip to Ireland.

Mina

Jim: Yes I've thought about it, but I don't know where to begin. Writing seems to be a no guts no glory kind of profession, so I'm working on getting the guts. Not to mention I have to work on my writing skills! Thanks for the compliment though.<BR><BR>Anon: That's really nice of you to say, but as I've stated before, it doesn't have to do with being a good or bad daughter...it's just the way it is. <BR><BR>Sonia: Nice to hear from you! Yes, I will need help in Florence...mainly trying to find a place to stay. I burned out researching a couple of weeks ago, and haven't done much else besides get my airfare, eurail pass, and some language tapes. I better get my butt crackin'...I leave in 45 days.<BR><BR>But for now, I'm just kicking back, enjoying the last day of my twenties. I turn 30 tomorrow. =D

Me

To the top, Birthday Girl!!<BR><BR>Have a happy!

alan

Hi Mina,<BR><BR>I traveled a lot with my first wife but after 25 years of marriage she died. Was happy I traveled. Am traveling a lot with my second wife. (she now has cancer). I applaud you (and all the rest of us who have the courage and the forsight) to take a respite to go and search. My wife says that &quot;life's to short to drink bad wine&quot; and I must agree with that. Given all of that personal drivel, here are my suggestions and observations.<BR><BR>The cheaper the hotel, the longer you can stay in Europe but the ickier can be.I personally would go for the one* if I say it in a guide book.<BR>See if you can make close friends, one never knows where one is going to be next year. (Maybe working in Switzerland)<BR>If you're nervous about traveling alone, then don't. Try and hook up with someone in the hotel or the cafe and ask if they'd mind if you'd tag along for a few days. The worst they could say is no.<BR>Regarding backpacking. Backpacking is a little like bookkeeping. Let the system work for you not you for the system. I.e.<BR>A smaller pack then most people are carrying.<BR>Like alll people on this post, I wish you the best and may it exceed all your expectations. <BR>And as they say, s--t happens so just keep up the positive attitude and you'll do just fine.<BR><BR>Regards,

Mina

Hi Alan...For some reason I missed your post. Thank you for your encouragement. I hope your wife beats the cancer, and that you travel together for many more years to come.

xxx

Mina, first of all, what a wonderful daughter you are - may God Bless you. Now for my two cents. I think backpacking and staying in hostels would be a wonderful way for you to meet young people your own age. My son backpacked through Ireland and met some wonderful people that he still corresponds with. Just a thought.<BR><BR>I hope you have a wonderful time!