It turns out breast self-exams are unnecessary, it could apparently even be a little risky as it might foster a false sense of security.

I’ve been doing the regimented self-exams since my mother’s breast cancer fight, I wasn’t even sure that I was doing it right but it comforted me, or maybe I just like touching my boobs– I’m not sure which it is.

We’re still to monitor them, so as to notice any changes. So I guess I’ll still be touching them.

Technorati Tags: Breast Cancer, self-exams

(Interspersed are pictures of London not necessarily related to the post – more pics to follow)

While it’s great to be back in Beautiful British Columbia (those Brits are still driving on the wrong side of the road!); I realize that I’ll have an amazing life if I lived in London. It’s where my friends, family and frenemies are and I miss them all so much it makes me sad.

That’s the thing with vacations though; it’s a taunting glimpse of what your life could be if you were independently wealthy and didn’t have to work.

It goes without saying that London was marvelous. I did so much, went so many places even though I didn’t get to do half the things I set out to do. I obviously need a lifetime.

It turned out to be a journey of discovery, although I didn’t set out to find anything.

I discovered the origins of our thalassemia minor.

I’d always wondered where I inherited my unique sense of style until I sat in my aunt’s amazingly cool flat with Philippe Starck furniture while she lauded minimalist design.

I discovered a sisterhood (fortunately not of the traveling pants variety) that I’d long forgotten.

I took a stab at the source of my family’s dysfunction.

Someone tried to convince me that my father’s traits are because his parents apparently didn’t love him enough – quelle ironie!

I came to resolution regarding my father and I’m sure it’s final.

I discovered amazing friendships and relations.

And finally, that crazy people abound all over the world.

London on the other hand is still beautiful and full of character.

Technorati Tags: Travel, London

I don’t know why I do this to myself; I’m always in a spinning frenzy before my vacation.

Back when I was young and naïve I believed that the crazed panic that ensues before each vacation at work meant I was indispensable – now I know it just means I work with a lazy (or overworked) group who’d rather not take on the extra work. Can’t say I blame them.

My father has somehow managed to become the underlying focus of my trip without even trying. I don’t plan on seeing him and I wish everyone would respect that. I don’t want to make a big deal of it.

It’s simple really, it’s my vacation and I only want to see people (and things) that bring me joy. Why can’t they understand that?

Technorati Tags: London, Travel