5.25.2008

Got My Groove Back

I feel as though I’ve been away from a computer since forever.

Between Jules’ visit and trips to Rome and Athens, it’s been a hectic, but joyous, two weeks. Remember when I told you I had lost the “wow factor?” Forget I ever mentioned it. I’m still buzzing from the sights and sounds of the last couple weeks.

However, I don’t think it was the new geography that impressed me as much as it was the quality time with good friends and my Max, who was able to accompany me on both trips.

Rome and Athens were more than just a way to spend vacation time. In both cities, I met some of my husband’s lifelong friends. I got the opportunity to see his old elementary school yearbook, hear funny stories from his college days, and order a shake at his favorite high school hang out. Max also drove me by his childhood home in Voula, a coastal suburb of Athens.

In just a few short days, I was able to get a glimpse of my husband from days gone by. It was not surprising to hear from his friends that, even as a young person, Max displayed the same joy, warmth, and integrity, which I have also witnessed over the last three years. Finally, I got to see Athens, a city I have visited before, and Greece, a country where I have roots, through his eyes. And I could understand why he loved the time he spent there so much. I wish we could have stayed a little longer.

But all good things must come to an end. Max returns to work, where he faces a hard couple weeks and I am going on a hunger strike—for real this time. Needless to say, I ate my way through Rome and Athens. It was impossible to do otherwise because the food was delectable. I am also happy to stay I have probably staved off aging for a few years. After sampling ample quantities of the wine of Italy and ouzo of Greece, I am sufficiently pickled.

16 comments:

Anonymous said...

So nice to hear you sounding like your old self again. And what a treat, trekking into your husband's past!

jaded said...

What better way to tour Rome and Athens than to eat your way.

Unknown said...

You sound terrific...glad you're back!

kenju said...

Ah, it's nice to know that you've been enjoying yourself. I hope you'll tell us more about your experiences in Rome. I know all about that excellent food; when we were there, we ate our heads off everyday, but we lost 9 pounds on the trip, from all the walking.

Paige Jennifer said...

I was in Europe in 2006 - one week in Spain and a second week in Portugal. The cuisine of the first week left me losing five pounds but I made up for it and then some the second week. Three cheers for elastic waistband skirts!

Jill said...

There's nothing better than spending time with family, good friends, and memories of years past.

Glad you had a great trip!

Dan-E said...

i frekain' love ouzo. let me tell you, that stuff could cure a lot of ills.

nice to see you're doing so well.

Jennifer said...

You sound happy! I'm glad to hear it. Please be kind to yourself and don't sweat the weight. I do love getting a glimpse into the past of the people I care about...so interesting.

Dianne said...

Sounds like an amazing trip. I'm thrilled for you.

I doubt you need a hunger strike LOL, as my Nana would say - you look so thin :)

Welcome Back!

Cheryl said...

Quality time with fantastic people can definitely get you buzzing. Sounds like a great time!

karey m. said...

you're home! have been thinking of you heaps and heaps...psyched to hear your trip was grand. it should've been.

a hunger strike? how...ghandi of you! can't wait to read your peaceful thoughts and observations, free to rise to the top when unencumbered by chips and chocolate.

ha. why am i visualizing a new feature? "what i didn't eat this week..."

Tiffany Fairbanks said...

Awesome! I'm so happy for you!

@JeanAnnVK said...

Sounds like a wonderful time...I thought it had been awfully quiet...glad you are back!

Unknown said...

Just found your blog... wish I didn't have to get ready for work. After I started reading... I realized your were in Mannheim... I went to school there.. years ago. I am glad you are enjoying the city as much as I have..

Erin said...

I'm glad to hear that you got your wow factor back. Sounds like you have an amazing trip.

LZ Blogger said...

WOW! joy, warmth, and integrity... who could ask for more? ~ jb///