reaffirm

I may have blog visitors today who have one question in mind...
the answer to that is...

Hell, yes :)

snow on the mountains!

After two weeks of visiting archaelogical ruins, I was ready to see something new. Not that I was tired of seeing piles of rocks and remains of mosaics....in fact, I loved those places. I love anything and everything that speaks of past civilizations. I may not be knowledgeable about the goings on hundreds or millions of years ago, but knowing that there were humans who lived life differently then, but possibly went through similar daily struggles fascinates me. And the fact that I too, am human, makes me feel as though I have an affinity with them.

But, back to Troodos. The Troodos mountains are the popular camping and picnic venue in Cyprus during the summer, when those who can't stand the heat long for cooler climate. In winter however, the highest peak in Cyprus, Mount Olympus, is the site of their biggest (and maybe only?) Ski Resort. Depending on how cold the year's winter is, the resort opens several skiing sites. This year, it doesnt seem like there's much snow...judging from what we saw, I can't imagine anyone skiing in those mountains.



But there was snow. And Allan had his first snow encounter, while I stayed a bit further away...fearing I might slip and fall and hurt Buddy in the process. We drove up to the Troodos town center, where apparently, most Cypriots and tourists were. We've been wondering for days where everyone is....since we walk around main cities on weekends without seeing that much of a crowd. Maybe everyone drives up to the mountains on weekends....

When in Cyprus, do as the Cypriots do. So we stayed in the mountains, making Platres our jump off point. Once there though, there wasnt much to do but explore...and we found a nature trail which was supposed to lead us to waterfalls. Having come from a Tropical country though, where natural trails are abundant and waterfalls tend to be breathtaking....I was not impressed. Plus, it was getting dark and getting way too cold to be outside.

The following day, we went to the Town of Kakkopetria....nearer Nicosia and much further below Mount Olympus. Again, the town center was filled with tourists, but there really nothing much to see...except for Orange trees, Lemon trees, an empty church. There also was a particularly interesting site which we thought was of significance after seeing tourists make their way towards it....on closer inspection though...it was nothing, but a big piece of rock.

What perhaps was the best part of the weekend was driving to and from the mountains. I think I've written before that I love the landscape and the sights while driving on the motorways. Hills, peaks, valleys, plains....nature at its best.

my first valentine!

...sort of.

Reception informed me yesterday that I have received a postcard. I knew who it was from, I was expecting it and the whole 'valentine' thing is a joke....but it still felt nice to actually receive something via snail mail. Something other than bills for a change.

Thanks! Expect something from Cyprus soon :)

PS SHE isn't really an admirer, okay? Or at least I dont think so... :p