What were you grateful for this week?I’m so grateful I live in such a beautiful place as it makes my morning runs so much better. Running through Italian hills or by the Ligurian Sea beats running through the suburbs any day. 

What was the most difficult or challenging part of this week?I miss having a car for multiple reasons. I miss the freedom and flexibility of being able to get up and go whenever I want. I also simply miss driving. It’s been difficult for me to figure out to get around without the conveniency of a car. 

Tell us about a “wow” moment you had this week. I brought a couple of toys for the boys from America that we open occasionally. This week we started using a dry erase book that helps with handwriting/practicing English basics. It may not sound like the most exciting thing, but the boys have really enjoyed using it!

Tell us about your week! The highlight of this week was going to the seashore near our home. I can’t even begin to stress how incredibly lovely it is. The sound of the waves is soothing on any beach, but the beach here in Imperia is rocky instead of sandy so the sound of the water rushing back to the ocean through the rocks all the while sending the rocks rolling down the shore is absolutely tantalizing. Of course the views are enthralling as well, featuring colorful buildings, palm trees, and rolling hills jutting up off the coast. This week also seemed to be full of lots of small but good things. I got to support the boys at their judo match where they did so good! We found some games that incorporate learning English and that the boys enjoy. It has helped to get the younger brother more engaged which was good for all of us. It’s also exciting to me that as they learn English, I’m learning Italian. It’s nice to know we’re all in the same boat. Another simple pleasure was found when, despite detesting reading on electronics, I started reading on iBooks. Sadly, I didn’t pack enough books to read but now I can read again and I’m so happy about it. It was a laid-back week but it makes me all the more excited for the fun weeks in the future.