Okay. I am SO dating myself with that reference to an aged, but very funny play from back in the 60's. But I simply can't resist it Because the funny thing happening on the way to the Forum is ME!!
I am taking me to Italy in May!!!!!!!
It all began a couple of weeks ago when I decided I'd like to find a writer's retreat to attend this summer and found one . . . in a small town outside Orvieto, Italy. I was entranced with the idea of writing in the mornings and wandering around the olive fields or grape vineyards or whatever in the afternoons. Plus it was a really cheap deal. I thought I might be able to work in a day or two in Rome or Florence if I was lucky.
At this point in the story I have to give the credit to Honey-Bunny, my husband, who asked me what was it, the writing part or the Italy part that I was more excited by? I put down my glass of Chianti and in a moment of sheer enlightenment said, "Italy!" Then, he countered, why didn't I just skip the retreat and go to Italy, only really go it; to Rome which he has no interest in visiting; to Florence and Sienna where he's been already; to wherever else I could get to in a couple of weeks.
Now that he's retired and we're on a fixed income I forced myself to utter, in the service of adult responsibility, a series of "Really? Really-we-can-afford-it? You're sure we can?" "Go for it," he said. And yes, yes, he is wonderful, incredibly supportive, etc etc etc as you are all thinking.
He's also departing on a three month hike on the Pacific Crest Trail for much of this summer (I too am wonderful, incredibly supportive, etc etc etc) which is the reason I am embarking on this adventure alone.
Actually, because I'm doing it alone my sense of excitement and pleasure is quadrupled! This trip, the longest I've ever taken in another country solo, now feels like a sort of lovely coming-of-age-at-the-age-of-60 extra special adventure. "Elizabeth's Excellent Adventure!" OR "Elizabeth's Excellent INventure!" As in INventing a newer, souped up version of myself who is undaunted by toddling around Italy by myself, gazing open mouthed at the Sistine Chapter, the Coliseum, the-you-name-it, while bravely mangling my second favorite (first is French of course) language.
There is much, much more to say to you about all of this and believe me I will, but for now - Ciao Bellas! I CANNOT believe I am doing this!!!
Oh yes I can.
Si! I can.
How lovely. I'm excited for you. You must take your laptop and keep us updated on your adventures.
Posted by: Sheila O | March 26, 2009 at 11:05 AM