Italian wrap up

I’ll never forget our Italian vacation, it exceeded all my expectations. Luckily I have many photos to bring me back. A few things stand out in my mind and I would like to express my gratitude to all who made this trip so memorable. A big part of it was sharing the experiences with family and friends. Together, we gorged ourselves with great food and enjoyed good wine. And of course the laughter, lots of laughter, sometimes uncontrolled laughter.

Jimi – your thoughtful meal planning, ability to improvise and expertise and grace in the kitchen was incredible. That’s why there was always a crowd watching you cook. It’s unfortunate I rarely get to see you these days. Thank you so much.

Joan – many thanks for all your help with planning and organizing this excursion. All the things you did to watch over us, attend to our needs, accommodate our wishes from throwing a coin at the Trevi fountain to finding the best gelato shop did not go unnoticed. It wouldn’t have been the same without you.

Jon – or Mr Perfect. Way back when you first brought up the idea of this trip, it seemed like a fantasy. I can’t thank you enough for inviting us and I’m sure you and Kathy did more things than we’ll ever know.

On some level Italy has ruined me. I’ll never enjoy Italian food again unless I go back. Also I now want to take 2-hour lunches.

I don’t think we’ve ever spent this much time together and I have to admit I was a little anxious about spending 10 days with 14 people in a foreign country. Now I can say that my anxiety was unfounded.

I also learned a few things on this trip:

• Don’t give Uncle Dave too much wine.
• Tami & Amy Tahoe are very photogenic.
• Caitlin, beautiful as she is, I can never take a good photo of her. A failure on my part.
• Italian versions of French Bulldogs are much bigger.
• Italians don’t pick up after their dogs.
• Italians don’t drink tap water.
• Pesto is not supposed to be so heavy with basil.
• Never shoot portraits without Amy Tahoe.
• TJ Maxx $10.00 knives are a good deal.
• Whatever happens make sure I bring that flash.
• I can eat and drink a lot and only gain 1 lb. if I do a lot of walking.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes regardless of how they look.
• Ho bisogno di carta igienica più (I need more toilet paper).
• Never let Jimi hold my passport.