CASA VALENTINE…

………WHEREVER WE ARE TOGETHER, WE ARE HOME

And we’re off…….

Written By: Arlene Ridolfi Valentine - Mar• 19•14

Paris Adventure

We’re on a mission this year (2014).   It’s a sabbatical year for Russ and we are re-creating our first travel adventure.  In 1989, after 25 years of a rather normal life of courtship, marriage, children, family life and college years, all of which were carried out while both of us were working, we decided to shake things up a bit and follow a dream that had been percolating for many years.  We arranged to take a three month road trip through Europe.  I kept a detailed diary with drawings.    The re-creation mission is in progress.  So far,  we have followed the same itinerary, staying in the same places wherever possible.   Some things were the same, many have been very different.  We are older and wiser now but what stayed constant for us was our curiosity and enthusiasm for travel.  We’ll post some of our encounters right here but we’ll collect all the “then” and “now” drawings, photos and impressions and put them together in a little volume that will probably prove to be entertaining.   Living it certainly was.          And the adventure began here….both times.

 

What We Saw Today…..

Written By: Arlene Ridolfi Valentine - Feb• 18•14

KINDRED SPIRITS, POTENTIAL FRIENDS

Kindred Spirits

Animals always know, don’t they, when they encounter a kindred spirit.  Lately, Russ has been yearning to have a dog but our travel agenda at the moment doesn’t allow such comfort.   This brave little fellow picked up on that vibe and came as close as he dared……