Reboot

The intentional part of the reboot was an incredible ten-day meander through Europe (three cities, three nights each). The trip not only served as an indulgent reward for finishing my book, but filled the well to overflowing and engendered off-the-charts gratitude for the blessings in my life (one of the biggest of which is my traveling companion, who did more than her share of planning and execution, and who is a source of inspiration as an example of how to truly live).

The deep mental rest of leaving everything behind (including and especially the news cycle) had me ready to hit the ground running when I returned. I allowed myself two transitional days: to exhale, unpack, do laundry, and hang with the CWP, who did an amazing job of keeping el demonio happy while I was away. The unintentional part of the reboot occurred on the third day, when I woke up with Covid (which I'd previously avoided for five and a half years). Time to pivot once again, I thought, as I gathered my Tylenol (don't even get me started) and my throat lozenges (reports of the sensation of razor blades or ground glass were not exaggerated). My execution of all of the fabulous ideas that simmered and plans I made as I immersed myself in novelty would have to wait a bit, and that's okay.

It's hard for a neurotic with control issues to let go entirely, though. So in between fever dreams and coughing fits I thought I'd whip up an articulate post about my travels. (I'd laugh if it wouldn't start another round of hacking.) Just. Not. Happening. Instead, I'm treating you to a visual account of a few of the highlights.

The trip started in Florence. This is the shot that adorned all of my Italian language texts. Taken from the rooftop bar of our hotel, a renovated palace.

Couldn't get enough of the view from our hotel window of the red tile roofs with the campanile in the distance

On to Lake Como, which we learned is not a town, but a huge, Y-shaped lake dotted with countless villages. Spent an afternoon in Bellagio.

View from our hotel window in the city of Como. Loved staying in this lively place with a medieval history.

A visual reminder of my favorite memory of the trip. We were duped into climbing 500 feet up to an old lighthouse. The altitude and exertion had us almost turning back several times. It was worth pressing on.

One reward for persevering: unforgettable regional cuisine and a spectacular view

The train ride through northern Italy to Zurich the next day provided a welcome rest and endless postcard views.

Proof of life in Zurich. Staying in the Old Town was perfect.

View from the funicular we took from the outskirts of Zurich.

This trip was a spectacular reboot. It was a great way to celebrate the accomplishment of a goal and I'm excited to go forth (once I rise from my sick bed) and explore new ideas and interests. I'm also looking forward to resuming the healthy routines I'd formed and continuing to forego some of the less healthy ones (cough, doomscrolling) that I left behind. Stay tuned.

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Thanks for reading! As always, I welcome your comments and questions.

GOOD THINGS

Cough drops with liquid centers.

I received my author's copy of my book (Rising: Notes on a Resurrection). Just a few more tweaks and it'll be available at most online booksellers. I'm beyond excited with how it's turning out.