I am finally here!

I arrived in Rome yesterday around noon on a very sunny Sunday afternoon. I spent the rest of the day settling into my room, but jet lag and the lack of sleep caught up with me. I was in bed at 8 PM. Today I was up bright and early, but until just a few minutes ago it was raining heavily, so I took the time to catch up on a few things. We begin officially this evening. Until then...weather permitting...I will get out for some exploration in the neighborhood. I have attached a picture of St. Peter's Basilica taken from the balcony of my room.

Leavin' on a jet plane

I fly to Rome tonight and will arrive somewhere around noon. After all the anticipation it is finally here. I got back to New Jersey from Aruba late last night. After some laundry and reps king I am ready to go. The days in Aruba were just what I needed to let go of my daily "grind" in order to be ready mentally, physically, and spiritually for my time in the Eternal City. Ciao for now!

R & R

The first part of my sabbatical has begun...some R & R in sunny beautiful Aruba before I head to Rome for the educational part of my sabbatical. I know it is nice in Michigan today, but 85 degrees and this blue ocean are hard to beat!

Tomorrow...tomorrow ...

I leave GR tomorrow morning. Only a few hours until my sabbatical begins. After all the planning and waiting it will be here soon. I am very excited to begin my adventure! I want to say "thank you" to everyone who has wished me safe and fun travels. I will be back soon with stories and memories to share.

One Week. . .

One week from today I will be leaving on my sabbatical adventure.  The packing, banking, saying "arrivederci" to family and friends, etc. has kicked into high gear.  I would like to say that I am ready to depart, but I have a lot of unfinished business, personal and professional, to clear off my desks before I can go.  I am sure that most of it will get done and then the rest will just have to sort itself out. :)

Departure is fast approaching!

As I finish up the details to celebrate the Christmas holiday with my parish community and my family, I am all too aware that I will be departing soon for some R & R in the sunshine before I fly to Rome.  I am really excited, but a little nervous as well.  I am sure that it is going to be a wonderful sabbatical, but I have never been away from family, friends, work, or my home for that long.  I hope that I don't get used to it. 

Packing has begun!

Today I began the process of packing. I started by setting aside items and clothing that I am taking to Rome. I decided to start now so that I won't forget anything...I hope it works.