Indulgent Weekends

We've had a pretty indulgent weekend.  Because this is often the case, and because I picture my life in five months somewhat absent of these types of indulgences, I thought I'd discuss.

Our weekend has been full of the following...
laying out on our balcony
having drinks at Piazza Riforma
reading Kindles
listening to Ryan's music
choosing a fancy place for lunch and ordering champagne (we are in full-fledged "why not?" mode)
lots of walking
napping
picking up birthday jewelry (that's now my size)
painting nails
planning upcoming vacations
and stopping by German bakeries for dessert

I'm going to miss this no kids, little obligation, no car and house note kind of Europe.  I think in five months, our Saturdays will be full of Home Depot, boxes, stressing about jobs, and cleaning house.  And while I'm positive I'll welcome the change, I'm basking in this for a little while.

So, this is my view at the moment.  I'm writing from a lounge chair.  It's quiet and warm.  My stomach's full of fish and asparagus, white wine, and almond cake.  I can hear waves, boats, and birds.  I have nothing to do but finish this post, pick up my book, and continue reading.  I think I'll be channelling this image one day in the near future.  

Just in case you thought my writing lately has been pro life in Europe, con life in the US, these are the things I'm looking forward to the most, and are completely absent from our lives at the moment... 

driving

LOTS of family 

American friends

gardening 

knowing how to get places

cooking meals with black beans, crabmeat, cilantro, store bought frosting (and just for Ryan, Tombstone pizzas) 

our cats  

talking to people on the phone

attending weddings

visiting Maddie at Spring Hill 

babies 

and Coke icees

I really am excited to have all my family within driving distance, but I mention Maddie in particular because she recently decided on a college, and it's only a state away!  It wasn't an easy decision... she had big name schools, diverse landscapes, and a range of scholarships (including full!) pulling her in different directions.  She chose to play volleyball for Spring Hill in the fall, and I can't wait until her games are just a road trip away.  I'm going to be a badger fan!