During a recent conversation with friends, it was mentioned that I would probably add a few lbs while living in Italy. This unfortunately has already occurred. My schedule has become very erratic these last three months and I have strayed from my normal eating habits. I am also deep into The Farewell Tour. Much like Cher, there doesn’t appear to be an end to farewell appearances. Each appearance marked by overindulgence in very excellent food & wine. Just this past Friday evening, I had dinner with my daughter and son-in-law. We met at The Cottonwood Grille (Boise, Idaho by the way) for a pre-farewell. I’ve never fully grasped the meaning of the expression, “parting is such sweet sorrow,” until now. My daughter is expecting her first child, my first grandchild. She is due right about the ... read more

So how does one pack for a two-year adventure? Answer: Very slowly! Unlike other moves I have made in my life, this has proved to be a new challenge. We have to examine each item, one by one. We have created six piles in the process. One very, very small pile that we will take with us to Italy aboard the plane. One shipping pile consisting of a few books that we deem essential to classroom instruction. One pile that will be stored for two years - the litmus test being, "Will we need or want it in two years?" One pile going to donation. One is for sale items. And last but not least, the trash pile. We are now 16 days from departure. The house is in total chaos. Things are being continually lost ... read more