Coming to an end

It's hard to believe it's almost June. The SYA students are gone, leaving me with finishing up loose ends. Max finishes schoolol in a week and a half (only 5 more days of wearing a grembiule!). Then we're off to Sicily for two weeks, back to Viterbo for a week of packing, then return to the U.S. on the first! That ought to be a sight -- two adults, one child, two cats, wheelchair, scooter, canes, car seat, carry-ons, and somewhere between 6-9 suitcases!!!

We've been having all our final lunches, dinners, cocktail parties with SYA faculty and staff. One teacher even left today. I've really enjoyed working here -- in a small school where you know everyone, with a faculty that is both dedicated and hysterical, and in a small town where everything is within walking distance. While I'm looking forward to some of the comforts of home, there is a lot to be missed here. Even Max, who has been ready to go back for some time, is starting to realize how many things he'll be leaving behind.

It was not an easy year, in many ways, but none of us regret the decision to come. It's a year we'll look back at with awe, "Can you believe we pulled it off?" we'll likely say to one another. What a great experience.

I'm sure in our remaining month we'll begin many a list of "favorite foods" and "things we'll miss." But, as always, it's the little things, the intangible things that will leave the greatest impact.

I'd like to thank Patrizia who has made this a richer year for me. She helped me with sewing and taught me so many new things -- crochet, macrame, jewelry making, soutache. She's a talented, creative person who is always looking to learn new skills and techniques. And above all, she is a very good friend. Grazie, bella.