So Inspired!
By: Ma. Theresa P. Valdes

    I almost forgot how incredible Europe is! Being there is my idea of heaven and Venice is my permanent address. DOV was so wonderful and complained only once about my entire excess luggage. He did not even say a peep about my shopping because most of it was for the new house. We only had a minor argument regarding which clothing to bring for our stay in Venice. As you all know by now, I am not your average backpacker. There is no way I can fit all my stuff into check-in size luggage to last me for two days. Of course DOV can travel with just an extra pair of boxers in his computer bag.

    Europe though is best for light travelers. Maybe if I did this type of trip more often, I would master the art of minimalist fashion. But I don't think so. I just can't help buying gifts for family and friends. Shopping in those quaint Venetian stores where they call themselves artisans and not mere salespersons is so awesome.

    By the time I was done with my Venice holiday, DOV was freaking out with the luggage we needed to lug into our train cabin that took us to Paris overnight. To think we were shipping our Murano purchases and more artworks such as masks and paintings already. It did not help that it was really low season so all the shopkeepers would take time to entertain your inquiries. They would speak of their work with so much pride that you would feel so honored to own a work made by them - even if the work were merely a lampshade.

    Being back here made me realize that if only people would work with the same amount of enthusiasm, we would do a better job. Especially workers in my field, who do a haphazard job in the project - they need to get motivated. Maybe I should have a contest among the workers doing my house and the prize would be a trip to Europe.

    The sad reality about going on a vacation is it is always not long enough. As they say, leave the place with something to come back for. But this time was a bit too tiring because we did some transcontinental travelling that I was just too confused with my time and my body didn't know what time zone to adjust to. More importantly, I missed my kids that last leg of our trip.

    One thing that temporarily corrects my insomnia is travelling. I am in bed by midnight and up at 8 AM. What a great way to start the Year of the Dragon! So to all you Rotary boys, take your wife or your significant other to those not married to Europe, specifically Venice. Believe me, you'll love her more.

    See you on the 17th for our annual Valentine's celebration. Please try to come in a matching outfit with your partner. If you have no partner, come in red. We will have a penalty for those not conforming. (Editor's note: no penalties!) Of course, we will have the usual games, prizes and giveaways. Eugene arranged to increase the budget for better prizes. I can't wait to see Becky shave her head to match Alvin's. I'll see if Al is true to his words.