Facebook... what's it all about?

As most of you know I (and apparently Cherryl, Becky and Toni) have been dragged into the Facebook thing. I'm really not a big fan for a variety of reasons but I do appreciate that it allows me to keep track of you all. I am a stalker.

The other thing that I like (and find odd all at the same time) is hearing from high school, junior high school and elementary (yes, that's ELEMENTARY) school friends. I recently heard from Ginger Swartz. I think my siblings all remember the Swartz family... another Santa Clarita Valley original. They lived up Vasquez Canyon. Anyhow, she told me that they lost her brother Rob, who I think was Jeffs age. Here's what she wrote:

"We lost our brother Rob 2 1/2 years ago. He was 44 years. His fishing boat went

down with his 3 crewmen. He was just going out to sea on the first day of crabbing.

Two bodies washed shore but not Rob. I've learned some big life lessons and 50 years

of age I now have a relationship with my birth father and three half brothers. It's crazy

but many blessings at the same time."

I don't want to be Debbie Downer every time I post, but my point is, you NEVER KNOW. Appreciate the now, appreciate those important to you , and live in the moment. I know it's hard with all the demands of life but it goes fast (yes, I'm repeating myself) and every step is precious.

Now, that said, for those of you who are NOT on Facebook, it's official... I leave for Italy in 12 days. I'll arrive in Milan where I'll meet up with a friend for several days then on to Cinque Terre to hike; back to Milan where I'll meet up with my friend again then our plan (at least at this moment) is to rent a car and drive the lake district through the alps to Switzerland. Not the trip I always thought I'd do for my first time to Italy, but just the perfect trip I need now. On my way home I'll stop and visit with Becky for 2 days. I'm excited and looking forward to it. My only regret- and it's a big one- is that I won't be here to attend Kyland's blessing. I will be there in spirit however and look forward to blog posts from Gordon on the event (hint, hint, hint Gordon!!!).

Love to all!