The Opportunity of a Lifetime

Wingnut has been building Hilton points and saving airline miles for years. The plan was to take the family to Italy this coming February, but you know the old saying, "The best laid plans of mice and men . . . " Instead of a trip to Italy, I'm expecting the arrival our newest little bundle of joy in February.

On a date night, soon after discovering our impending arrival, Wingnut joked about taking a couple of the kids to Italy this November. Imagine his shock when I declared I loved that idea. He thought I'd feel disappointed in missing my trip, but I'm not the envious type and I really wanted our 15 and 13 year olds to have this wonderful opportunity (Karate Kid went to Italy with her grandmother nearly 5 years ago and we really have hoped our other children would get the same experience). Italy will always be there, and if I die without seeing Rome, I honestly believe I couldn't regret it.

I've been right there, all along, helping with the planning and the packing. I even got the information they need to attend a Papal Mass. Today they left for their pilgrimage. Wingnut and Oleander are beside themselves with anticipation. Stat Boy could not have been less enthusiastic. The boy truly hates to travel. He has always hated traveling, especially anything that involves long distances and/or flying. It was all I could do to get him on that plane this morning, but by golly, he is going and he's going to love it. At least I'm hoping and praying he loves it. Dear readers, if you have a moment in the next 8 days, say a prayer for my pilgrims!