Review of the Packing List

4 Shirts ~ I brought a couple of more items to dress up dinner clothes.

1 sweater/cardigan/wrap - didn't bring it, didn't miss it.

3 capris

2 cargo like long shorts

Swimsuit. Coverup - didn't use 'em at all.

5 unmentionables

One pair of sneakers because Lynn reminded me we need closed toe shoes for biking in Lucca.

One birkies which will serve as sandals and slippers.

Scarf - one must bring one to Europe, but like the last time, it'll probably sit in the luggage. - never put the darn thing on.

Teeny Weeny wallet (acts as wallet or purse as well)

Money/debit card/credit card

Documents and photocopies/folder with tickets and itinerary/addresses.

Small daypack. Purple, got it from TJ Maxx. I'm always on the hunt for the perfect day bag. Carry on the plane. It worked but it was probably bigger than I needed. Overkill on the plane.

Travel vest - I really liked the vest because it alleviated my worries about where the money was, or constantly checking.

Point n shoot camera. I did miss my DLSR but I'm glad I wasn't having to worry about it being stolen in all of the airports and train stations.

Y jack and headphones - never used it. I brought my Zune, never listened to it and it got stolen out of my backpack (I believe) on the travel day home.

Small travel alarm clock. - very glad I brought this. The bed and breakfasts did not have alarm clocks on the room.

First-aid kit. Didn't bring it.

Medicine and vitamins.

2 pairs of sunglasses.

Sunscreen

Toiletries kit

Small makeup kit.

Sealable plastic baggies.

Sewing kit/safety pins - didn't use them.

Packing cubes. These really are handy.

PJs

Spot remover. Used it once. Bought a Tide Pen.

Inflatable pillow (or "neck rest").- forgot it. Didn't miss it.

Flat iron/hair stuff/brush - didn't bring iron.

Tiny locks used to lock luggage left behind in room.

Adapter. Didn't have the right one, thank goodness for traveling friends.

Small roll of duct tape. Skipped it!

3/4 paperbacks. Left them behind as I finished them, along with guide books.

Insect repellent. Never used it.

Rain Poncho. Left 'em home.

Packing List adapted from Rick Steves

What did I miss?

4 Shirts

1 sweater/cardigan/wrap

3 capris

2 cargo like long shorts

Swimsuit. Coverup

5 unmentionables

One pair of sneakers because Lynn reminded me we need closed toe shoes for biking in Lucca.

One birkies which will serve as sandals and slippers.

Scarf - one must bring one to Europe, but like the last time, it'll probably sit in the luggage.

Teeny Weeny wallet (acts as wallet or purse as well)

Money/debit card/credit card

Documents and photocopies/folder with tickets and itinerary/addresses.

Small daypack. Purple, got it from TJ Maxx. I'm always on the hunt for the perfect day bag. Carry on the plane.

Travel vest (just got it, lots of pockets, will wear on plane)

Point n shoot camera. I'm leaving the DLSR home. Extra memory cards.

Y jack and headphones to listen to Victoria's IPOD touch. I never listen to my own Zune so I'm going to skip it.

Small travel alarm clock.

First-aid kit.

Medicine and vitamins.

2 pairs of sunglasses.

Sunscreen

Toiletries kit with soap/foot spray. (Rick says not all Europe hotels have 'em) I have this peppermint foot spray that makes your feet all fresh and tingly and I think it'll be perfect after a day of touring, or even during.

Small makeup kit. If I don't have some, I'll fret. I hardly wear it while on vacation.

Sealable plastic baggies.

Sewing kit/safety pins

Travel information. Rip out appropriate chapters from guidebooks and staple them together. When you're done, give them away.

Packing cubes.

PJs

Spot remover.

Inflatable pillow (or "neck rest").

Flat iron/hair stuff/brush

Tiny locks used to lock luggage left behind in room.

Adapter.

Small roll of duct tape. Because Rick said so.

Mailing tube. Great for art lovers, this protects the posters and prints you buy along your trip. You can trim it to fit inside your backpack (though this obviously limits the dimensions of the posters you can carry).

3/4 paperbacks.

Insect repellent.

Rain Poncho.

Passport Renewal

I can't believe it's been five years since we applied for passports. Victoria's passport expired this year and the process for children is pretty much like applying all over again. In the last five years they seem to have gotten their act together for single parents. The questions on the application, and the directions, seem much clearer for single parents than before.

Victoria is thrilled to be rid of the pixie-cut photo on her old passport. Eighty-five dollars and ten minutes in the post office, and we should be good to go for August!

Memories of third grade field trip

Wed Nov 09, 2005

Given the problems we have had with this year's teacher, and several situations where safety was an issue, I volunteered to the school's principal to chaperone each and every field trip. Actually I volunteered to develop a chaperone training but no one liked my idea. The last field trip did not have enough chaperones and the teacher sent home a note saying the children were running and it was dangerous. Attending field trips is the only way I am comfortable ensuring for my child's safety.

The note came home on November 2 dated October 31. It announced a field trip to the Science Center in West Hartford for November 9. Chaperones must pay 6.00 and children 7.50. I hustled over to the bank for exact change and sent in the money requesting to be a chaperone, please contact me if there is a problem. No contact. Victoria isn't sure I am a chaperone because her teacher has indicated OTHER parents are chaperones, but has not mentioned me.

Last night at basketball practice, I had a conversation with a mother in the other third grade class. She was to chaperone today and was sent home a note indicating she ought to bring a bagged lunch, wear comfortable shoes, what time to arrive and what to expect. I was noteless.

I show up at school at 9:05am, knowing OTHER chaperones are expected to be there for 9:15am. Eli's father is there to chaperone and the teacher gave a stern lecture to Eli on how she did not choose his father to be a chaperone and due to his inconsideration, now his father had taken a day off for nothing. Eli's father held strong and said to his son in front of the teacher, "You made a mistake buddy, I don't want you to feel badly about this. We are going to have a great day." He told me he was ordered to attend by his wife and there was no way he was not going. He said he does not like this teacher and we agreed we ought to get together soon.

We all waited in the class as the teacher asked a child to get her a tea bag, another child for half n half, another child was sent to close a door, and the entire class was silent for two full minutes while she tried to figure out what tomorrow's hot lunch choice was so she could take orders. It was interesting to see her in action. We were given our assignments. I was not surprised to see my group of three contained Victoria and the two toughest girls.

The teacher was on the phone or whatever device she has sticking in her ear, and said it is NOT ok for a parent to follow the bus to the Center. She sends a child to get the principal. The principal came in and explained she could not prevent the parents from following the bus and going to a public place.

At 9:25am the other teacher announced the bus was ready to leave. Our teacher was still sending kids to the bathroom. We boarded the bus, some kids sat three to a seat. We left at 9:45am when we were to leave at 9:30am. It was an excruciating hour drive on a school bus constantly telling kids to sit down. I sat near Eli's father and the other four rows of seats behind us all had kids. The teachers all sat up front, near each other. The little girl sitting next to me shows me a pair of pants she has in her backpack. I asked why she brought pants with her and she said, "In case I have an accident." Great.

On the bus two in my group are fighting with each other. One girl is crying. I must have looked perplexed because all of the children explained to me they always fight. Always? Yes, always. Why are they in the same group? They looked puzzled. It was clear, I was being punished. This teacher is dumber than I thought, giving me two challenging children. Little did she know I had a bag of chocolate and was not afraid to use it.

We arrived at the Science Center at 11am. We are half an hour later than planned and immediately went into our project. One of my group members had difficulty working with her partner and seems to have some impulse control difficulties. I liked her though. Victoria worked with her two friends, one of which speaks no English. She called Victoria Victori. Cute kid. I would have liked her in my group because I need to brush up on Spanish.

After the project, which most found boring, we went to use the bathrooms then went back to the bus to eat our lunch. This is truly torture. After thirty minutes and a million times of passing trash up, we exit the bus once again and have approximately one hour in the Science Center. All the children have been counting, recounting, stealing, waving and showing their money for hours and were looking forward to the gift shop.

Thirty minutes in the gift shop. Kids with five dollars wanted items that were twelve dollars and other children were given six dollars but would only spend one. Victoria was using her allowance and was willing to spend it all on yet more stuffed animals. We have bags full of stuffed animals. Oh heck, we have rooms full of stuffed animals.

Eli's father and I walked around the museum looking at animals and exhibits. When we got to an area I'd stand by the exit. I was positive one of my group was going to be lost. It occurred to me I didn't even know their last names. Realizing they were really behaving as best as they could, I passed candy out discretely. We don't want other children to know we are breaking the rules.

We walked over to another exhibit room and I hear my group in a sing song to their fellow classmates, "Victoria's Mom gave us candy, Victoria's mom gave us candy neener neener neener."

What else could I do? I had already given them the candy. I sang back, "If you don't be quiet you're not getting any moooooore."

Silence! Gotta love it.

We were to board the bus at 1:30pm because it was going to take longer to get back than planned. I gathered my group up to head to the bus and I passed the teacher who was saying, "Let's go see the dinosaurs" to her group.

We boarded the bus, which had parents and kids, but no teachers. The teachers were all late. Victoria asked for her gift bag and I realized I had left it somewhere inside. Victoria immediately cried and I ran off the bus in search. Someone had found it. Disaster averted.

The bus ride home was twice as long as the bus ride there, or at least it felt like it. The little girl next to me said, "I'm so proud of myself for not wetting today." Me too. Me too.

Practice Packing Lite

Our trip last week enabled us to try out our packing lite theory for our Europe trip this summer. I brought enough for five days. I used my new carry on luggage size, though too large for an Aer Lingus flight.

I brought too many toiletries. I didn't use half of the lotions/sprays/whatnot I brought. I didn't use the straightener once, opting for my hair up the entire time. While I didn't wear makeup the whole week, as I thought would happen, I still can't bring myself to leave it all home. I've learned to pair it down a bit.

I didn't need too many pairs of socks because I wear sandals most of the trip. I did run out of books by Thursday so three was not enough for a week. I only brought my point and shoot camera, and am wondering if I should either leave lenses at home along with the flash, or try and make it through Europe with only the point and shoot.

Victoria did fine as well. She listened to her IPOD and used her touch a lot. My smart phone did a lot of work for me that I might ordinarily use a laptop for: it was able to get addresses to area attractions, directions, and movie times. I didn't listen to music at all, and I'm wondering if perhaps next trip I'll just bring along the dual plug for Victoria's IPOD. It doesn't seem worth it to bring my Zune when I don't use it.

I think we'll be able to manage two weeks in Europe with carry on sized luggage with a small back pack or tote as well.

Review of Barclay Towers, a timeshare in Virginia Beach

I traded my crappy timeshare for April vacation at the Barclay Towers in Virginia Beach. The timeshare units are all one bedroom and feature a boardwalk/beach view. This means the set up is pretty unique. When you enter the door, the queen size bed is immediately in front of you, set up as a small bedroom unit with a good size closet. Walking down the narrow hallway, you pass the good sized bathroom into the living room with sliding doors out to the balcony overlooking the beach. The kitchen is small, with a full sized refrig, mini dishwasher and small stove and microwave. The units were all in working order and there were plenty of pots and pans.

The furniture was in good condition. Cable television was limited but included 3 HBO channels. The coach opened to a sofa bed, but we never used it. I didn't find the couch very comfortable to sit on but the chair was ok.

The carpets and flooring all appeared to be in near new condition. The air conditioning unit was very loud. I mean very loud. The position of the bedroom, near the door to the hallway, could be a problem if people out there are noisy. We had one morning of some loud folks leaving at 5am, and I welcomed the air conditioning unit kicking on at the right time to drown them out.

The people at the front desk appeared bored and didn't perk up when I asked questions on the first day such as, "where can we grab some milk". The property is sold out for timeshare buyers but do rent out hotel suites to other guests. Continental breakfast was available to hotel guests and timeshare guests were given breakfast on Monday at 9am along with a little presentation on the area happenings. When we checked in, we were given a packet which included area attractions along with direction on how to get there. The check in/check out procedure was clear, and we received instructions two weeks before we were scheduled to arrive.

It was great to see the sunrise each morning from the balcony or, if too chilly, from the living room. It was a great spot to people watch too, as there are all sorts of interesting characters roller blading, biking, walking, running and kite flying right outside of the unit. We were given the second floor, probably not the most desirable floor, but we liked it because we could easily bypass the two elevators easy enough. We had great weather last week, and all days except one were warm enough to lay out on the beach.

The indoor pool was adequate and in good shape. There were plenty of staff to keep up with towels, sweeping and keeping the general areas clean. This is where we found the friendliest staff members. We received trash removal service and fresh towels daily. We received maid service twice during the week which included refreshing the bath & body works toiletries and a vacuum/dust/clean. Typically these services do not come with timeshare stays unless you pay extra.

The location is near 9th Street, right on Atlantic Avenue. Parking is limited in front of the unit, but there is a parking garage right across the street. After the weekend folks cleared out, we had no difficulties finding a spot out front of the building. Plenty of places to eat and snack lined Atlantic Avenue. Lots of little shops and such were all a walk away. Vendors were all over renting family bikes, single bikes, roller blades and such.

This is one of my favorite drive-to vacations we've had, in the six years or so we've been trading for spring breaks. I would definitely return to Virginia Beach, and definitely would stay at this timeshare spot again.

Packing Lite

I'd like to try and pack only one carry on for our Europe trip. I can't imagine taking trains all over Italy and having to take a large suitcase. Who is going to care if I wear the same 4 outfits for two weeks? I'll wash them, promise!

Yet each time I mention wanting to take as little luggage as possible, people seem shocked. My only real concern is taking back treasures we find in Italy. I thought maybe I'd bring a fold up tote bag (Rick Steve's of course) and sending that through luggage to be able to carry on the treasures.

I'd really like to try it!

Italy Planning

Aer Lingus released summer fares at the prices I was hoping to pay. It wasn't my favorite airline when we fly to Paris a few years ago, but this is strictly about price. The people are friendly enough, it's the layover in Dublin that feels like a time warp.

We got open multi city fare for about 700 each. We're flying into Rome to spend three days there and out of Venice after spending four days there after our tour of Amalfi and Florence. I was insane about spending the rainy weather-time reading on the places to stay. It's overwhelming.

I found a post online about a person's favorite spot to stay in Rome and booked it:
http://www.residenzafarneseroma.it

Trip Advisor has 42 reviews, mostly favorable. I booked a superior double for 94 Euros a night. Most of the spots offer breakfast with the nightly rate and this place is no different. I requested a quiet room based on some of the reviews I've read.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g187791-d298958-r34048016-Hotel_Residenza_Farnese-Rome_Lazio.html#CHECK_RATES_CONT

Venice took some time to book as well. I settled on a bed and breakfast with great reviews:

http://www.casangiorgio.com/

I booked the Junior Suite with Altana
http://www.casangiorgio.com/junior_suites_panoramic.html

This place has even better reviews
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g187870-d571462-r55354439-Ca_San_Giorgio-Venice_Veneto.html#CHECK_RATES_CONT

I chose each place to hopefully experience a bit of residential life in the spots in Italy, a bit off from the main tourist spots.

Womens Big East Tournament

We spent five days last weekend at the Big East Women's tournament in Hartford. We learned it's not likely we'll want to see four games in one day.

There were lots of characters in the crowd. We had a familiar face sitting near us with a big ole UCONN hat on his head which reminded me of a Dr. Suess hat. He seemed hurt when people didn't chant with him. He'd go out to a platform and raise his arms up and try to get the crowd to spell, chant and sing. We sat next to three lovely people whom we became friendly with. I suppose we must have had good seats because each time we arrived, someone was sitting in our seats and had to be asked to move.

Victoria spent some time watching Mr. Blue Man jump up and down in section 235, behind the home team's basket. He really expends a lot of energy jumping up and down and hollering by himself.

Lots and lots of short haired women who wore fleece vests and comfortable shoes. I say comfortable shoes because they were not wearing sneakers, like I was. There were quite a few men in groups, in their 30s or so. These were not men who gave up on the Husky-men but true fans of women's basketball. Very nice to see.

Watching the games live are really different than on television. You sort of take the athletes for granted when you watch them on television. The UCONN women, who typically I end up cheering against because I want the game to be more interesting, seemed to be the only women in the conference who played anything like the men. We watched a Southern CT Women's basketball team this year and I was amazed at the lack of inside game. All of the dribble penetration ended with passes out to the perimeter for an outside shot.

It's almost becoming a completely different game. I like the way UCONN plays, not for the obvious reasons, but because they have inside game.

In retrospect, we probably shouldn't have gone to the championship game. The parking, only being one game, and it being a school night made for a late night. The game wasn't terribly interesting.

Italy – Bella Italia Daily Itinerary

Sorrento and Florence

Day One

Arrive in Naples
Upon exiting customs, you will be met by an Adventures by Disney representative who will escort you to your
transfer vehicle. Relax as the driver assists with your luggage and escorts you to your hotel.
Check Into Your Hotel*
Benvenuti! Your Adventure Guides welcome you to bellissimo Sorrento. Relax as they check you into a chic hotel
near the coast with a view of the Bay of Naples.
Welcome Reception and Dinner at Hotel
Meet the other families that will share the adventure! Gather together and enjoy your first of many mouthwatering
Italian feasts.
Meal Included: Dinner
* Depending upon departure date, Guests stay at either Hilton Sorrento Palace or Hotel Europa.

Day Two

Journey to Positano
Walk into a picture postcard and enjoy this magical fishing town that cascades down hillsides into the sparkling
blue Mediterranean—no wonder it's one of the most photographed places in the world! Your Adventure Guide tells
about the history and mythology of the area as you ride a private motor coach to Positano.
Exploration On Your Own of Positano
It's a perfect morning on the coast! Whether you desire a relaxing day walking along the shore or shopping for
treasures, enjoy the locale before boarding the boat to Amalfi.
Private Boat to Amalfi and Lunch On Your Own
Hop aboard a private boat, glide across the sapphire sea and tour the Amalfi Coast from the ocean side. This
unforgettable cruise is exclusive to Adventures by Disney Guests.
Amalfi On Your Own
Ask your Adventure Guides for tips to find the perfect Italian lunch! Dive into a sublime family lunch in this
charming town. Now you're living la dolce vita! Then spend the afternoon exploring as you wish. When finished,
return to Sorrento on a relaxing, two-hour motor coach trip.
Dinner in Sorrento
Join your fellow adventurers for a fragrant feast in the Garden Room at the beautiful o' Parrucchiano Restaurant.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day Three

Ferry Ride and Walking Tour at Capri
Journey to this legendary isle that has captured the imagination for generations. Stroll through designer boutiques,
crumbling ruins and dazzling cliff-top views that will take your breath away.
Lunch On Your Own
Seafood doesn't get much fresher than this. Enjoy lunch with a view with your family. Your Adventure Guide will be
happy to make suggestions for a quick bite or a leisurely meal on your own.
Private Boat Tour of Capri
Take a private cruise around this enchanted island and discover some magical swimming spots! Explore the
stunning coastline and take a dip in sapphire blue waters. Enjoy your afternoon in paradise!
Visit Agriturismo La Galatea Farm
Journey through the peaceful countryside to a quaint farm and learn about pressing olives to make olive oil,
making mozzarella cheese and harvesting delectable fruit. Afterwards, learn to make pizza with the experts in an
exclusive activity.
Dinner at La Galatea
Dine on the delicious pizzas you made during the pizza-making activity along with fresh fare right from La Galatea
farm.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day Four

Pompeii
Journey to a town that's literally frozen in time! Learn how Mt. Vesuvius' volcanic explosion actually preserved
remnants of this ancient civilization, and walk through the petrified streets, houses and amphitheaters of
yesteryear.
Lunch at MEC Restaurant
Trade tales with your fellow adventurers about the morning's excursion as you devour fabulous Italian fare at this
restaurant in Pompeii.
Travel to Florence
Ride a motor coach for 2 hours to Rome, then board an express Eurostar train for 1.5 hours from Rome to
Florence for a picturesque journey to the breathtaking city of Florence.
Arrive at the Hotel
Welcome to the elegant hotel that will be your home for the next few days. Bask in the heart of cultural Florence!
Wine Tasting and Junior Adventurer Games
Enjoy a relaxing wine tasting before dinner as the Junior Adventurers play games with the Adventure Guides.
Dinner at the Hotel
Take your time as you dine at a bountiful buffet in the hotel dining room.
Disney Movie Night and Junior Adventure Dessert Time
While parents enjoy the evening at the hotel, kids can kick back, savor some dolce and watch a classic Disney
movie!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day Five

Breakfast and City Excursion
After breakfast at the hotel, share the timeless treasures of the Renaissance on a privately guided walk through the
city. Marvel at Michelangelo's "David" and the Duomo.
Lunch at Ristorante Rubaconte
Take a midday break from your travels and sit down to a delicious lunch in this sleek restaurant.
Museo dei Ragazzi
Follow your private guide on an interactive tour of the fresco paintings in Florence's "Children's Museum."
Afterwards, paint your own fresco to take home!
Uffizi Gallery
Explore this famed gallery steeped in Renaissance history at your leisure. Marvel at masterpieces such as "The
Birth of Venus" by Botticelli and Michelangelo's "Tondo Doni."
Florence and Dinner On Your Own
The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish! For dinner, ask your Adventure Guides to recommend the best place
to have your Florence family meal.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day Six

Morning Excursion to Monteriggioni
After breakfast, journey to this beautifully preserved village and see what lies behind its fortified walls.
Excursion to Siena
Visit an enchanting city that is remarkably preserved in all of its medieval glory. Travel through time and visit the
historic main square, which is famous for its annual Palio race. Enjoy exclusive entrance to the Eagle Contrada
Museum to learn the history of this famous and exciting horserace, dating back over 400 years.
Lunch in Siena
Indulge in a special family lunch in this charming town at a local trattoria.
Free Time In Siena
Explore Siena as you wish this afternoon.
Dinner in Florence
For dinner on your own, ask your Adventure Guides to recommend the best place to have your Florence family
meal.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day Seven

Journey to Pisa
Tour the Piazza del Duomo where the Fields of Miracles resides, along with the famous tower that has leaned into
history! Then board a motor coach to lovely Lucca.
Lunch On Your Own in Lucca
Enjoy a leisurely lunch in this tranquil city that was never conquered.
Bike Ride Atop City Walls of Lucca
Hop on a bicycle like the locals and ride along the shaded, peaceful paths that run along the tops of the walls of
Lucca. Gaze upon the unforgettable scenery of the old town as you cruise under the chestnut trees.
Farewell Renaissance Dinner at Palazzo Borghese
Toast to the magnificent Mediterranean adventure you've shared with your family and newfound friends at this
elegant palazzo built over 400 years ago! With irresistible Italian dishes, lively Renaissance entertainment and a
few Disney surprises, this party celebrates the adventure of a lifetime
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day Eight

Breakfast at the Hotel
Bid farewell to all your fellow adventurers, and enjoy one last meal in Florence.
Transfer to Airport
Relax and enjoy your final moments in Italy as we handle your luggage and arrange for transportation to the
Florence airport. Say arrivederci to your fellow adventurers until you return again!
Meals Included: Breakfast

European Airfare Woes

I've been hunting and hunting for fare prices to Italy for the summer. All the prices around around the 1200 dollar mark. Every once in awhile Priceline sends me an email telling me I can bid again. So I bid 700 dollars and it's never accepted. I'm hoping there is at least a little change in prices soon.

Has anyone heard from my travel agent?