Ready to leave

I'm ready to board the plane for Rome; it's anxiety-building in the getting-ready-to-leave mode. Worry takes over. I've tips from family and friends (including Tips from Teddy and Flatricksteves). I colored my hair today and will shave my legs the evening before departure. Women, you KNOW we do this...

I'm as safeguarded as can be against pickpockets and theft in Rome. Shall I duct tape my passport to my thigh? Pin pockets in the bra? (two pockets for equal protection and lift)

I have addresses, directions, and vouchers for Rome's Vatican Museum (Sistine Chapel), the Necropolis under the Basilica, Borghese Galleria, and Uffizi in Florence. I have Couch Surfing contacts. I'll stay in hostels but will hopefully meet up with locals from Couch Surfing. I plugged in age 45 and up. Everyone responded. They had fascinating profiles -- extremely well-traveled and adventurous. Three men and three women, ages 48 to 64. Sweet!! If I meet one from each city, it will add to the adventure and experience.

I have my ticket from Florence to Edinburgh to rendezvous with Phyllis from Yellowstone on August 31. We have three weeks of hostel reservations in Edinburgh, Melrose, Glasgow, and Isle of Arran.

Once again, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Colorado, working, hiking, visiting with friends. For some reason, this stay, I feel much more at home. There's a new freedom and welcome at my sister and brother-in-law's house... freedom within me and welcome from them. Family has been good. Both daughters and their guy friends, niece and nephew... it was full.

House-sitting for two weeks, I'm remembering the sterile stillness of living alone. The stillness coupled with TV. I watch TV much more when alone. I don't like it but do it. I discovered Bravo and The Millionaire Matchmaker. mmmhhh, would life be easier?