What I learned in Tajikistan

Home at last
Hi dad, your thoughts are magnificent and illustrative. I got your text about JFK, I don't know if you got my response. Here is the basic gist: we also went through JFK, less than 48 hours apart if you can believe it. I found the multicultural environment to be intrusive and crass. The only thing that saved me from complete frustration was the courtesy given to our children. Everyone smiled and spoke to them which is a juxtaposition from general "stranger danger" mentality of the US. The trip back and forth to Italy was exhausting and I'm so glad we went at time when we could stay for an extended amount of time as it made the trip worthwhile. The kids did great considering. Italy was busy and slightly chaotic, as usual. Francesco and I really got to talk and make some life decisions, however, so that was great. We will make a Florida-move decision over the next week or so. By now we've back back a few days and have mostly recovered from Jet Lag. Luca still came in to our bedroom at 4 am stating he was hungry "Mommy, it's breakfast time!" I took him to the window and had him look out and explained that it was dark and everyone was sleeping. He was allowed to turn his light on and play quietly in his room until "real" wake up time. Miraculously he did this and our day started around 620am. Lili is really amazing and is starting to walk everywhere. She has yet to take a true independent step but can walk alongside you with one hand for several minutes without tiring! Your trip sounds and looks so beautiful, I admire your adventurous spirit and your ability to make quick ties to people around you. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Perhaps the answer to the eye question may not be that everyone has 20/20 vision but that they do not get their eyes checked? In Italy I have long since noted that people do not care for their teeth in a similar fashion. They may drive a Mercedes but they've had a full set of dentures since age 30. Look forward to hearing what you find out. I have posted almost 100 pictures of our trip on Facebook. If you have trouble accessing it or would like any of those pictures sent directly to your email let me know. Love you so much, take care of yourself. Michele