Rucksacks & bad backs (Lauren's first blog post)

Ok, I've given in and decided to contribute to this blog too (this is Lauren btw).

Why is it so hard to get out of bed during the week but come Saturday you're wide awake at silly o'clock in the morning? Well we decided to put this to good use and decided to test drive our almost fully packed rucksacks and travel clothes. We walked all the way to Springfield shops and back. I know what you're thinking.... "EPIC! They are so ready!/ where the heck is Springfield? (it's 1 mile up the road)" Hmmmm.....

.....This is when the thought popped into my head, "might have been a good idea to get fit before our trip". Oh well, I've convinced myself that starting our trip walking around cities (New York, Rio, São Paulo and Buenos Aires) that have multiple coffee shops and bar options will help ease us into the trip and steadily build our fitness levels, which will be much needed for our Patagonia trekking stretch. 

Many of you know that Gareth has had a history of lower back pain, well I've only gone and got a problem with the same joint! What a pair! Let's hope and pray it doesn't impact us too much. If all else fails, we will b doing a coffee shop tour of South America.

Many people are asking us how we are feeling. I'm finding it almost impossible to get my head around what this trip will be like but we are both really excited. We know it's not going to all be easy but what an opportunity to have an adventure, something I've dreamed of. I'm feeling so grateful but will definitely miss my lovely friends. Please find us on Skype if you can as you might catch us when we've got some internet.

Must go, got a very special friend's birthday to go and celebrate.