Decision 1: can we afford this??
After much discussion about the state of our finances, Dave and I decide to take our daughters to Europe. (Retirement savings...bah, who needs 'em?!)
Decision 2: when should we go?
With two kids in school, summer is our only option for a family trip of any length. Yikes, that means we'll be battling the heat, the crowds, the sky-high season prices - this last causes us to rethink the "can we afford this" question - but by now, there's no turning back no matter the hurdles.
Decision 3: where in the world shall we travel?
Somewhere in Europe is the unanimous starting point.
Germany? Says Dave, to get the ball rolling.
Italy! Say the girls.
British Isles? Says Dave hopefully.
Italy! Say the girls.
Languedoc-Roussillon? Says I tentatively.
Italy! Say the girls.
Italy it is.
But where oh where in Italy?
Somewhere in the countryside? Says Dave
Rome! Florence! Venice!!! Say the girls.
Umbria?? Says I enthusiastically (and I immediately proceed to jump the gun and pester Bill Thayer about how to find accomodations in Monteleone di Spoleto.)
Art by Michelangelo! Leonardo! Donatello! Raphael!! Museums! Towers and Domes! Waterbus rides! Cities!! Say the girls.
Cities it is.
After much discussion, we decide on Venice and Florence. Those cities seem to fit best with what the girls want to see and do, and it is "their" trip, after all. Venice and Florence...oh yeah, I think I can handle it! (I put Umbria on the top of my list for future trips though!)
