There have been no post for several weeks, and for good reason; my whole family has been here. From 6 July to 15 July my mother and sister visited, and then my dad, step-mom and aunt from 20 July to today.
Finally, we’re free, free at last.
Actually, it was great to have everyone here to see our house, to see the area we live and have an excuse to explore Italy even more.
The trips were both great. Much of what we did was similar, but each was also very unique. When my mom and Becky were here, we took the mandatory Venice trip, and also spent time at the beach, Tuscany, Florence, and Verona. A couple of the pictures from their trip are below. This trip was really special because I had never really traveled with my mom, especially big trips like Europe.
Trip highlights: place-Leaning tower of Pisa; event-Becky/Andy bonding time
My dad’s trip was also excellent. Most of the time we have spent together over the past few years has been rushed because of busy schedules and sensory overload. However, this trip proved to be different. He promised early on that this trip would be relaxed and chill, and he lived up to his word. I have actually never seen him so relaxed (and I don’t think it was medication). I think he was just really glad to be here.
Like I said, both trips’ itineraries were similar. We visited Venice (but 3 times on this trip), went to Verona, Tuscany, and Cinque Terra. With both trips we spent a couple days just hanging out in the local area, cluing them into some of the beauty/frustration of the Aviano area. Pictures from their trip are below.
Trip highlights: place-Cinque Terra; event-the whole family staying in one hotel room to save a couple Euros (that exchange rate is killer).
Finally, an event that was supposed to take place while my mom was here… but got delayed and happened last Monday while my dad was here; my promotion ceremony to Captain. Now, the promotion is generally a sure thing for JAGs, but it is nevertheless and important event and even more meaningful when you have family to be there to see one of your professional advancements. When you reach a new rank, you can have your family ‘pin it on’. They literally pin your new rank on your uniform as you swear in to your new position. I have some pictures of my dad and Sarah pinning my Captain bars on.
We were so happy to have everyone with us and hope that we can host as many people as possible during our three years here. We consider it a privledge to be here and are happy to make it easier for others to come or at least give them an excuse to come to Italy.
