I'm now 15 days before I leave for Venice, Italy. I'm pretty excited about this trip. I'll be spending
two weeks in an apartment in a real neighborhood for the very first time ever. I've been to Venice twice before
as one of those hoards of daytrippers. We were boated in for a few hours then rushed back to our hotels before sunset as
if we were going to turn into pumpkins or something if we didn't. I never had the chance to experience Venice at
night. And now I'll have many late night opportunities. Whoo Hoo!
Two months ago I never thought that I would be taking this trip as my sister's health was uncertain. I cancelled
my September trip and went home to help her. Now she is 100% healthy and I am really grateful.
This whole scare gave me an even deeper appreciation for the small things in life. In some respects,
it taught me to really live life to it's fullest and enjoy the things that are important and that makes me happy. I
try not to sweat the small stuff. Life is just simply too short!
In August while visiting my sister, I woke up each morning to find my sister's dog Koa sleeping somewhere
in my room. In this picture, he apparently found a nice comfortable spot sleeping on top of my T-shirt,
which I had draped over my handcarry luggage.
The next evening, I decided to hang my T-Shirt in the closet instead of laying it on top of my handcarry and
this is what Koa did . . .
Koa somehow found a way (albeit odd) to make himself happy . . .
So like Koa, I guess I also try to move through life in much the same manner. I know what is
important to me and what makes me happy. And when faced with adversity I make adjustments and find
my way.
I am so grateful that my sister is healthy again. And in just two weeks I will be fortunate to be able to
take my 4th trip to Europe. Soon, I will be strolling through the streets of Venice, Italy!
