Days go by.....

From Italy!!!!

As always, I wish I had written more while I was here and documented thoughts, ideas, feelings.... But the trip is almost over, and though we have been relaxing, we have also been busy. By the time the kids go down to sleep, the adults can't wait to put them in bed and snuggle them so that WE can fall asleep! =)

We've been to Rome, Siena, Florence, Elba, and the beach. I think Florence is my favorite of all. One day, we took the kids to the Medici palace. As a special treat, we were honored to "meet the Duchess." What a wonder for the kids! (We loved it, too.) She came out all dressed up and we were presented to her as "travelers from the New World." She couldn't understand why the women were wearing men's clothing and the girls over 18 were not married yet! She tried to admonish Jason on the importance of preparing matches and a wonderful dowry for at least the first two girls (Kathryn, 7 and Maggie, 5) and to begin looking for a wonderful girl for Liam, 8.

The kids all love to talk about "Maurizio, the Magician." They love it when he comes around, and of course, everyone can't wait for Liam's birthday party on the 7th. He will be the guest of honor and finally show them more of his tricks.

This post doesn't do justice to our trip, but perhaps I will find time to reflect on more memories in the coming days.... For now, I leave you with pictures.