Monthly Archives: October 2016

We are happy to have a few more days with our Albanian friends. Last weekend there was a crowd of people and special group events for the 25th anniversary. This weekend it’s just Jim and me, and it’s been really … Continue reading →

I really was not ready to leave Florence, and certainly not eager for a day of travel. Six am taxi to the Florence train station. Wait at train station. Train to Bologna train station. Taxi to Bologna airport. Wait at airport. … Continue reading →

Venice is darling, but I love Florence better. Venice is like a Disneyland copy of itself. It is so expensive to live there that most locals have been priced out. The city exists almost solely for the tourist industry. Florence is … Continue reading →

We are essentially doing some sightseeing and other activities while we wait for the next eating opportunity. At mid-day we took a free walking tour. We’ve done this in many cities around the world and it’s always been an extremely … Continue reading →

My first thought when we saw our little apartment in Florence was “I never want to leave here.” It’s the nicest Airbnb we’ve ever stayed at, and the owner/architect/designer is so darling. Look at this cool blend of ancient exposed brick and … Continue reading →

One plane, one train, two automobiles, lots of walking and a bus today. Travel days are stressful. I can see why people take cruises or tours. It’s nice to just be delivered painlessly to the next destination. I would make … Continue reading →

We had a wonderful day celebrating Emanuel Church’s 25th anniversary. Our pastor from Ventura, Mark Patterson, preached. They ordained three new elders–more than doubling the size of their current board. I love hearing them take the same vows in Albanian … Continue reading →

We are on our way to Albania to celebrate Emanuel Church’s 25th anniversary. We are also going take a hop, skip and a jump to Florence to make it a real vacation for us. I’m getting less patient with people who … Continue reading →