We had to do some business as our daughter is back-up for our banks, and business and other practical matters that you have to make plans to cover when away even on a short vacation. Mostly we enjoyed their company knowing that it would be at least a two month stretch before we saw them. This, of course, has happened in the past — my children have gone to college, to study abroad and to live in other US states (actually we’re lucky when we get to see our son more than twice a year some years).

But we have to admit missing the baby for that long is surely going to be missing some amazing growth spurts. After a few tries with calling me “gamma;” she lighted upon “da-ba!” this weekend! And she knew she’d invented it – we’re sure! Ask her to point to Gramma Shannie – she points to me. Ask her to point to Da-ba – she points to me. Each time with a smile that tells you somewhere in the brain is evolving a very funny sense of humor!

And, my best girlfriend – our daughter – will be sorely missed. She is the most amazingly capable and strong woman I know; and she’ll be okay without my physical presence – but I shall miss our almost daily phone calls dearly.

We also held a salon. For two or three years now, we’ve hopefully been brightening up two or three Saturday evenings during the New England winter by having friends, acquaintances, and their acquaintances stop by for a few hours of appetizers, drinks and great conversation. We had about a dozen folks and a great evening.

A few folks had brought travel quotes for us. My favorite: “Traveling in the company of those we love is home in motion.” Leigh Hunt

My home will be with me on this trip: it is a funny coincidence that my hubby of 36 years and I leave on Valentine’s day. He and I have sailed many a metaphoric and real storm together – not to mention the glorious sunsets.

But I shall miss, and think daily, of the girl, the grand-girl, the boy and the other girl, and all those who stay behind. I shall bring you all in my heart.

We are getting excited though. The itinerary at this point with lots of details to work out – including how soon to work out some of the details goes like this: Israel (10 days), Madrid (a few days), Granada for three weeks of Spanish language school immersion, Morocco (with son and his wife joining us for a vacation) for about a week, back to Salamanca for two more weeks of language school (somewhere in these weeks is a few days in Sevillas – maybe even Easter weekend). Next we’re onto Porto, Portugal for about a week, back to Barcelona and surrounds (1 week), Marseilles in France, maybe a driving tour of Alsace and into Paris for a few days, and lastly to London and Southampton to catch the Queen Mary home on June 2nd (and we have yet to figure out at what point our daughter and grandbaby join us for their vacation).

Are you tired yet from reading that? I am. It is a huge number of details to arrange. Let’s not talk about the cost with the dollar not so good in Europe. We have come, though, to really appreciate Rick Steves’ guidebooks and website.

And, let’s not yet think about the million details of caring for a home and business while we’re gone!

But let the countdown begin to one of the most fascinating years of my life! Happy New Year!