Italia

Perhaps my biggest regret at this point in my life is that I haven't traveled enough beyond our country's borders. I can partially chalk it up to the fact that I spent nearly 15 years living on journalist's wages, and when I did have any vacation time during that period, I used whatever I had for friends' weddings, family gatherings, holidays, and the like.

When I got older and (a little) more financially secure, it was marriage and kids that ruled the day. Kind of tough to think about a lengthy overseas trip when you're worried about paying the bills each month with additional mouths to feed. The point is, there never seemed to be the right time to hop on a plane and explore a faraway destination.

That's what made these past couple of weeks very special for me. I spent 10 days in Italy with my lovely wife by my side. It's hard to find the words to describe it. I mean, you can fill in the blanks (the food, the wine, the views, the history. . .the wine. . .wait, I already mentioned that), but the timing couldn't have been more perfect. I've spent the last four years struggling to cope with my parents' illnesses and deaths, and I finally had some time to. . .breathe.

I won't brag on it any longer, because that's not what I'm about. I'll let the pictures do the talking. Ciao, friends. Talk to you soon.