Adventures in Germany: Pasta, Pizza and Prosecco, OH MY!

In mid-April we were thrilled to spend a week of relaxation and family on Lake Como, Italy. My sister, Laura, and her family flew all the way from Boston to join us for the week. It was my niece and nephew's Spring Break, so what better place to spend it than Italy? I know they would have made their Italian ancestors proud! The only drawback of living so far away is not getting a chance to see our friends and family more regularly. This trip was extra special because it was the first time Bria got to meet her Auntie Laura, Uncle Ryan and cousins. Mission accomplished- Bria was thoroughly entertained by her "new" family members. Jake, on the other hand, had a different approach. We are not sure if it is a phase, but he has definitely perfected his "toddler scowl." He is rather shy in new situations so it took him a few days to warm up, but by day 3 he wouldn't stop talking (in his English/German/toddler babble). Before day 3 he was quite entertaining to watch as you would ask him a question and he would pull the cover of the stroller over his head as if to say "I don't want to be bothered right now." Bella and Noah were not only superstar travelers, never getting jetlag or slowing down, but they were such great helpers and babysitters. Similarly, Laura and Ryan also deserve an award. After finally having kids old enough to take care of themselves, they decide to vacation with a 2 and almost 1 year-old. Maybe not the most relaxing vacation they have ever had, but they were major troopers. I think the fabulous Italian food, drinks and gelato might have helped!

Lake Como (Lago di Como), in my opinion, is one of the most picturesque places I have been. Located in Northern Italy, it is the third largest lake in Italy, and one of the deepest of all of Europe. Not only is the Y-shaped lake lined with elegant 19th-century villas but the snow-capped Alps to the north add to it's beauty. We took advantage of the ferries, hydrofoils and speed boats to visit several towns including Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, Tremezzo and Como. We especially enjoyed the little town of Argegno where we rented a lake-side Villa for the week.

The mood turned somber when we learned about the horrible bombings on Marathon Monday, but we were especially grateful that Laura and family were with us in Italy and not at the finish line. Similarly, my brother and sister-in-law, who are regulars at the marathon were also out of town that day, so we counted our blessings! Our thoughts and prayers were (and remain) with friends and family in Boston as they recover from this terrible event. Having lived in Boston and also having run the Boston Marathon, I know what a unique place the city is. I am so proud of how the people of Boston have responded to this tragedy and I have no doubt that they will emerge even stronger. You never tell a runner they can't finish a race, so Boston will finish this race. (On a side note, Laura will be running Boston's "Run to Remember" 1/2 Marathon on May 26th and is raising money for "The One Fund Boston" an organization created to raise money for the families affected by the Marathon bombings. If you have any desire to contribute please contact me at etrumble8@hotmail.com for Laura's info).

Needless to say, our week in Italy was memorable for many reasons. Ciao Italia!