Hey Baby

We're very excited to announce that Ann is expecting a baby! Last week she visited the doctor and had her first ultrasound. Her due date is January 4th, and everything is going very well. Of course, we expect that the baby will be born in Italy, which should be an adventure in itself. More baby updates will follow...

Weekend Trip to Verbania and Villa Taranto

John spent this weekend alone in Italy, while Ann and Thomas wait one more week before the big move. Saturday afternoon was a great opportunity for John to go exploring. He had a nice walk through the little town of Verbania on Lago Maggiore. Also, in this town, there is a fantastic botanical garden: Villa Taranto. John had a great time strolling through such a picturesque area beside a beautiful lake, and enjoying a late lunch at an outdoor cafe.

Back in Pennsylvaina, Ann is nearly finished with her Italian lessons, and Thomas can't wait to get into his new house in Italy and see Daddy.

Ciao!

Moving Our Stuff

Today our belongings were systematically boxed, loaded into a container, and carted away. Our home in Pennsylvania is now half empty, and many of our most important belongings are on their way overseas. We'll probably arrive in Italy before our things, which means that we'll spend several weeks living in empty houses on both sides of the Atlantic.

In Memoriam

John lost his mother, Mary Bedell, on the morning of June 9, 2007. Although Mary had recently been diagnosed with cancer, her passing was sudden and unexpected. John's mom was a remarkable woman. She left a positive mark on everyone she met. She was deeply loved and will be sorely missed.
Mary's Obituary

Unfortunately, this has been a difficult year. Ann lost her father, Kelsie Harder on April 9, 2007. Kelsie's obituary appeared in the New York Times shortly after his death:

Ann and Thomas visit Italy

Ann and Thomas travelled to Italy this week to visit the European School, see our future home, understand the medical system, and make various plans. The trip was tiring for them, but wonderful. Thomas especially liked the airplane ride (although Ann thought it was too long). The country is beautiful, and we can't wait to return.

(The photo above is of Ann, standing next to the church in Oleggio)