Planes, trains, and automobiles

        Well, it's taken all of 22 hours.  Planes--
     

          Trains--

         And automobiles--

        But we're finally in Italy!  I guess anything really worthwhile always requires some effort, right?         So thankful for the incredible privilege and joy of visiting this beautiful country with our two girls. (And doubly thankful for my wonderful husband for holding down the fort while we enjoy this adventure!).
        We flew into Milan...took a nearly hour long cab drive to the train station...and then a three hour train ride to Monterosa (in Cinque Terre).  For the record, although my brain is mush from no sleep and lots of traveling, this place is absolutely gorgeous!  A beautiful coastline with brilliant blue water, rocky cliffs, and a charming little villages.  I simply cannot believe we are here!
        My girls, leading the way down a little path above the sea...and then the view from up top--

I'll shut up now, but I have just one more comment before my head hits the pillow.  If this old earth is just the tiniest little foretaste of heaven, can you even begin to imagine what the real deal will be like?  Wow.  Beauty everywhere, no sin to stain perfect holiness and righteousness, having eternity to share it all with people you love, and forever enjoying and basking in the glory and love of the Savior who is our joy. 

Thank You, Father.  Thank You.  Thank You for love.  Thank You for beauty.  Thank You for allowing us to enjoy Your gifts and to share them with those we love.  A shared joy is quadrupled!   Thank You for this day, this moment.  Thank You that as beautiful as this old earth is--and as hard sometimes, too--this world is not our home.  Thank You for the promise and hope of heaven.  

And Lord, thank You for Italy!  

To God be the glory.