Tuscany

I really wanted to see this:



and this:


But I'm counting my many blessings because I got to see this:

Venice

Venice looked fake. Amazingly fake. As we walked around all day, I kept remarking that it looked just like a movie set. I honestly couldn't get over it. It was gorgeous. I don't think I've been to a more unique city. Whoever decided to build it on the water like that??

Entrance to our Hotel . . . so cute.

My man sampling the gelato

The Gondolas at St. Marks Square

Everywhere in Venice looked just like this . . . amazing.

How I Love This Man!

On our way too expensive Gondola Ride in Venice.

When the rain is blowing in your face,

And the whole world is on your case,

I would offer you a warm embrace,

To Make You Feel My Love.

When evening shadows and the stars appear,

And there is noone to dry your tears,

I would hold you for a million years,

To Make You Feel My Love.

Zach sang me this song at our wedding and he proves these lyrics everyday. He is the most supportive, patient, loving husband anybody could ask for. I express my gratitude to Heavenly Father for him EVERYDAY. He makes my life fun, he takes care of me, he shows me the way through it all.

When life gives you lemons . . .

disappointed: depressed or discouraged by the failure of one's hopes or expectations.

the lemons trees at our Tuscan Villa

I should be grateful that I didn't anticipate having any problems on our trip to Italy. Before leaving, I was excited and a bit nervous, and I never anticipated I would react to being 6000 miles away from home with such desperate panic. After 3 days of consistent panic attacks with no end in sight and no means of alleviating the pain, we had to come home.

We saw Venice and spent a day in Tuscany and then we boarded the 14 hours of flights home. I feel relief to be home again, with my children. But of course, I feel disappointed.

I'm trying to make lemonade out of this experience and all I can think of are the things I'm grateful for.
My children. They didn't forget us during those 4 days.
My parents. For being the witnesses of my life and for helping me through the past 27 years.
My Husband . . . oh my Husband.
Family, Friends, everyone who loves me and supports me.
Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ for teaching me what I apparently must learn to grow but also providing safe harbor.