After giving Michael a big hug and a kiss I took off for a three week trip to Minnesota. Michael stayed home so he could bring home the bacon – or in Italy, the pancetta.
Minnesota was not my only destination; my trip included North Dakota, Kansas and Iowa.
My flight to the States was uneventful, and once I landed, I barely got a few, “yeah sure, you betcha’s” out and I was off to northern Minnesota where the highly skilled and charming Dr. Smith, DDS (Rebecca’s husband) had arranged for me to have a root canal. Nothing like starting out your vacation with a root canal. It involved a few trips up to Fergus Falls but I was in good hands with my sister Rebecca and Dr. Smith.
The rest of the time was a flurry of getting my dad’s photo story book completed, preparing for this birthday party, shopping and some various doctors visits for the middle age body that I now inhabit. My Grandpa Elmer always told me “don’t get old” but then we know what the alternative is so I will have to do the best with this one.
We presented Dad with his special book the night before his party. My sisters helped me assemble this unique gift with photos from various stages of his life, birthday wishes and stories or memories from many family members and friends. It was 65 pages long and a loving tribute to Dad. I know he greatly appreciated it and was very touched by all the lovely sentiments and fond memories. Dad didn’t want a huge party so we kept it to the immediate family and some close friends. Susan baked Dad’s favorite pies, and we had a delicious spread of typical Minnesota picnic foods. I also facilitated a little wine tasting including three bottles of vino I had brought from Italy. Molto buono.
My sister Susan from Seattle flew in for the festivities, and we took a trip out to Elk River to visit with our Aunts, Eunice and Irene. We also got to see cousin Kelly’s new home and hear about all the plans for her fall wedding to Eric. Aunt Janet drove down from Appleton, Minnesota. She looked great and as always it was fun to see her.
I spent an afternoon/evening with my friend Becky and got all the updates on her busy life and we talked about her coming to visit us in Italy. Becky and I shared a lot of “adventures” back in the day and I am looking forward to her visit. Even middle-aged women can still stir up a little trouble.
One of the highlights of my vacation was my side trip to Leavenworth, Kansas to spend a little time with the Riggins family. The “boys” Anthony and Zachary are now impressive young men. Anthony graduated from college and Zachary is a sophomore in college. Teresa and Ken have a gorgeous home enhanced by Teresa’s decorating talents. Una casa bellisima. Ken is one of the most popular professors at the military college at Fort Leavenworth and working on his PhD. They all have busy lives and it was a treat to see them all. Teresa and I did a road trip from Kansas to Minneapolis and got caught up on “life.” It was so special to spend time with my very dear and cherished friend.
Three weeks went by quickly and I was missing my man. After the long flight I arrived at the Venice airport with no one in sight. What the heck?! He was delayed in a meeting and kinda’ forgot about me. He got a "Needs Improvement". Well – that all got straightened out and I was back home in bella Italia.
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