On Friday, my sis and her family flew back to the islands and as usual, she and I both cried like
a couple of babies at the airport. It NEVER fails! It was fun to spend the holidays with my sis and
her family and I am really thankful that they were here!
As we contemplated the new year, my sister reminded me of an old wive's tale that in order to start brand
new, one needs to clear out the "old". She said that people always put away all of their holiday decorations
and gifts before the new year rolls in. A sort of out with the old, in with the new! Or maybe she told
me this, because of the big gift wrapping mess I had in my room! Anyhoo, over the weekend I cleared out
all of my christmas decorations in preparation for the new year.
So as a new year rolls in, I reflect on some of the memories of 2007.
- I am grateful that my sis recovered from her diagnosis of stage one cancer and that she is 100% healthy.
- I am grateful that I have stayed healthy & that my family and friends are in good health.
- I am grateful that I was again able to travel to Europe. This year it was an awesome two weeks in Venice, Italy.
And I am so grateful for discovering the community of Slow Travel, which is a wonderful site that taught me to really
appreciate and experience the places that I was traveling to. I am so grateful for the terrific people on ST who
provided me with valuable advice and inspiration. They also read my blog (which is not a very easy thing to do, trust
me!). He, he!
I am grateful to all the folks that I also had the pleasure of meeting during my travels. Sometimes I just
feel so dang lucky to be able to have such great people in my life. And of course to my friends who always encourages
me in my crazy and adventurous endeavers! They are never discouraging and that means a lot to me! Thank
you all!!
My priorities in life have definitely changed over the last 3 years. I have a carpe diem mentality that drives
me to seek out new adventures and discover unique life experiences like never before. I want to live life
to the fullest and the new year will be no different. I can't wait to feel inspired for that next big adventure!
Can you feel it? . . . I can!
So, in honor the new incoming year (2008) this month's photo is a shot of the interior of the very prominent church
of Santa Maria della Salute located in the Dorsoduro District of Venice. . . . It was taken during the very special Festa
della Madonna della Salute which was held on November 21.
The Fiesta della Madonna is a religious celebration that involves a procession, led by the
Patriarch, that leaves St. Mark's and crosses a pontoon bridge across the Grand Canal and ends at the Salute Church.
Thousands of local Venetians go to seek pardon in front of the Madonna. They bring candles to light. I
was very fortunate to be in Venice during this special celebration and I too brought my candles to light and to give thanks.
As I stood there in this awesome church among hundreds of venetians I felt a sense of honor to be a part of this local tradition,
celebration! In a way, it sparked an inspiration in me to seek out other celebrations around the world. It was
a very cool feeling!
I want to wish everyone a very happy, healthy and safe new year filled with lots and lots of great travel experiences!
Peace,
Kathy
