Details, Details, Details.

Each day I try to become a little more prepared for our jaunt abroad.  Yesterday the plan was get bread and milk to survive until we leave.  On the way home I realized I hadn't exchanged our dollars to Euros.  I think this is a problem because you have to order them from the bank leaving in four days??  Today I will figure that one out.  In addition, we have been trying to read up on tips what not to miss in Italy.  We want to  book as much as we can before we leave to make things "easier."  I came to realize too much information is not good.  In the past few days, I have read that tipping is rude, police ignore the pick pocket problems, and make sure to have a rail pass.  The next blog tells me to tip if it was good service, how to protect your pockets and just enjoy point to point service on the trains.  I think I have hit information overload.  The only remedy for that is to wing it!  I am blessed to have the type of family who can go with the flow.  Now about those Euros, why is it they charge you for using your own money...don't get me started!  Bank, laundry, baseball, pack, and not necessarily in that order!  Till next time.

getting ready to go T minus 9 days...

My daughter Jackie is spending this spring semester in Florence Italy.  Is there any greater excuse to go on vacation in Europe than that!  My travel companions for this jaunt across the pond are my husband Rich, oldest son Johnny and my youngest Danny.  We are all excited to see Jackie, explore Italian cities rich in history, and all I've heard about the food!  For me, getting  a family of four ready to go to Italy is no easy feat.  What have I done so far? Well, I have booked the flights, rented the apartment, and thought (thought) about what clothes to bring.