Welcome to something a little different in our den. Over the next few months, I’ll be republishing my travel journal from our big Italy trip this summer. Think of it as a replay of the adventure—sun, pasta, chaos, and all—one day at a time. And no, we’re not back in Rome (yet)… but this is the next best thing.

Day 1 – “The day of departure”

It’s way too early, but here we are. I’ve been up most of the night—not exactly from nerves, more from that electric restlessness that hits before a big trip. You’d think after all the lists, plans, and spreadsheets, I’d be able to shut my brain off. But no. It’s one of those mental ping-pong matches where you keep asking yourself: Did I pack the charger? Where’s my passport? Will the plants survive?

Larry & Guida are going to water them, so that’s covered. We’re packed—probably overpacked—but it’s a three-week trip across Italy. Rome, the coast, hill towns, food, history, the Pope (I still can’t believe I got tickets to the papal audience). So yeah, if I brought an extra pair of pants, sue me.

This is the kickoff. The first official entry in the Italy travel journal. I’m tired, but I’m excited. Let’s see what happens when we get on that plane and this whole Italian adventure becomes real.

“Viaggiare è vivere due volte.”

“To travel is to live twice.”