​Weathering the Storm with the WP #169

One month from now, I will be in the arms of my wife at long last as it has been since the middle of April, after I left Rome last. Another week has passed as I get closer and closer to saying arrivederci to America, first with a stopover in the UK for business, but closer than I am now, for 10 days in less than 2 weeks’ time. I know with all the trials and tribulations of my life, this is absolutely the right thing for me, as I reflect on a little over 4 years ago, my life was heading in a totally different direction, one where the business was doing well, just before the pandemic, but my personal life was totally out of control and sliding downward, even with an outward appearance of positivity. ​

The reality was very different, and the best of my friends and colleagues knew differently, as hard to hide, as I am one to show my emotions on my shoulder. It was no different than it is now and musings in these posts show that over the years I have been writing them; where I want to be, will be and know that this impending move is the right thing. I say what is on my mind, and sometimes without filters, which sometimes are interpreted the wrong way. It has been hard these past few months, since I had to part ways from Rosa, but this has been necessary, so we could sort through the details on both sides of the pond and tie up the loose ends. Our coming together again only a few short weeks away gives me true happiness and she has since I met her. ​

When this most amazing lady came into my life 4 years and a bit short of 4 months ago, my life had changed forever and for the better, with a balance I had never experienced in my life and something throughout my life, I never really had. Yes, that may sound strange and yes, I have lived many places, in Minnesota, New York and now New Hampshire and even a year in France, a half century ago, but no where I lived has ever been home, and settling down, until now, with a truly beautiful loving lady who captured my heart the first time I met her and showed me it is okay to love and be loved and brought a passion to life that I had lost long ago before meeting her. ​

I am so at peace with my decision to move forward back to the old world where I feel comfortable. I know there will be trials and tribulations there, but at this point I am totally ready for this new travel adventure, and for the first time in my life, I will be more settled. Please don’t get me wrong as having friends and some family who I cherish here in the states will be my connection here as will my business ties, as the WP will still be US based for the foreseeable future and from that standpoint, will not change. Technology will allow me to maintain the business and my friendships, thanks to zoom, WhatsApp, email, and even old fashion phone calls, but my home will be Italy with the woman I adore and love. ​

Things did happen this past week, and this was not simply a reflection of the past 4 plus year. Last week, as previously noted, I was in Dallas for the Travel Advisor Conference and for me, while I had some good meetings, it was more, a reconnecting with colleagues in the business, so a leaning on the personal side of things and I am glad I attended. Although the weather was not fully cooperative with delays both outbound and return, it was simply and literally weathering the storm like any day, so the last two domestic trips, the weather definitely was a factor. Upon my return, it was the routine of shopping, doing laundry, and continuing to prep for my clients, so just business as usual, as it continues to be. In the end, the days count down and slowly but surely, I prepare as much as possible for my departure for my future in my new world, the old world. ​

One last commentary has to do with history and a very important event in history, one we should all acknowledge and never forget. Although I am writing this on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, tomorrow, June 6, is the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Landings in Normandy. We recently had Memorial Day and its significance of being the unofficial start of summer here in America, but more importantly, what its meaning is, which is commemorating those who served and gave their lives in defense of America in wars foreign and domestic. Yes, people went to the beach, had BBQ’s and picnics, and enjoyed the long weekend, but what tomorrow represents is truly the sacrifice that all branches of the military gave in the support of democracy around the world. Think about it. Those still alive who survived that day would be in their late 90’s and perhaps early 100’s. It is, most likely, the last time any that were there on that longest day, ​

“More than 150,000 Allied troops landed in Nazi-occupied France on June 6, 1944, including 73,000 Americans, 60,000 British and 15,000 Canadians. It was the largest amphibious invasion in history, a meticulously planned assault that altered the course of World War II — and the 20th century. Around 4,500 Allies died, including some 2,500 Americans, in their historic bid to loosen Nazi Germany’s grip over mainland Europe. And so, for a few weeks every year, Normandy is transformed into a festival of remembrance, with cities, villages and cemeteries festooned with flags — including many American flags flown by French locals — while playing host to concerts, parades, and ceremonies. It’s not clear how many veterans are still alive. But some 150 Americans who took part in the monthslong Battle of Normandy, including two dozen D-Day veterans, are expected to make the trip to France this year, according to the American Battle Monuments Commission, the government agency overseeing cemeteries and monuments abroad.” Taken from an article from NBC News

I have been to Normandy and to the beaches, the cemetery and seen the pillboxes, the remnants of the mulberries, Pont du Hoc and many other aspects of the beaches some years ago and also have been to several cemeteries including at Coleville in Normandy, but most recently, the American cemetery in Luxembourg, where General Patton is buried with his soldiers in a simple grave. I have been to the cemetery in Nettuno and several in Sicily.  Americans, British, Canadians, and even German cemeteries throughout my travels over the years have been visited as I respect those that served, especially, those that went without question, and did their duty, be it WWII, the Korean conflict, Vietnam, and the more recent conflicts. I never served, but tip my cap and salute those that did, as I have friends and colleagues that did. Tomorrow is not simply a date on the calendar, but an event that changed history and freedom is never free. The fact I can pursue my own happiness, and not tread on other’s happiness is because of the sacrifices of others. Consider that if you have not already done so and thank a veteran for their service when you encounter one and appreciate the sacrifices they have made.  ​

As always, I hope you have enjoyed my offerings each week and appreciate that you have read my blog posts and look forward to continuing with sharing. As always, thank you so much for your support of Rosa’s and my little world now that they have been merged into one. We truly appreciate your support and congratulations. Stay safe, healthy, and most importantly happy, and as always, your shared comments and thoughts are most welcome!!!

If you would like to hear a video tour of the WWII memorials in Italy, click this button! I created a very in-depth commentary about these memorials when I visited just before COVID-19 shut down travel.