My foot giving me lots of grief and jet lagged children so decided to use the "red tourist bus" to sight see Rome. Loving the heat, sunshine and blue skies! Threw our coins in La Fontana di Trevi to ensure our return to Rome and strolled (or hobbled) along the beautiful cobble stoned streets to the Foro Romano and Piazza Venezia. Zac had a melt down by this point and refused to walk any further so we headed home to cool off. Missing our pram! Poor little thing f...

After about 26 hours of travel via Dohar, we finally reached beautiful (and HOT) Italy. 35 degrees a bit of a shock after chilly Crafers winter. Kids were fantastic little travellers- thoroughly enjoying the plane activity packs, treats with every meal and of course the non stop movies and TV! In our sleep deprived state, and trying to juggle our ridiculous numbers of bags, we managed to leave the laptop on the first plane!! How can that be possible!?? Got it...

After about 26 hours of travel via Dohar, we finally reached beautiful (and HOT) Italy. 35 degrees a bit of a shock after chilly Crafers winter. Kids were fantastic little travellers- thoroughly enjoying the plane activity packs, treats with every meal and of course the non stop movies and TV! In our sleep deprived state, and trying to juggle our ridiculous numbers of bags, we managed to leave the laptop on the first plane!! How can that be possible!?? Got it...

Well after a LOT of logistical challenges from visa delays, problematic foot surgery, not being able to work in the UK, needing to change schools and not securing tenants.... we are FINALLY off!! Our year away has had a bumpy prelude but that should mean its all up from here! The kids are so excited... wearing their new eye-masks for the plane (on their foreheads) ever since leaving the house! (well done Aunty Michelle!!). Sad to say goodbye to wonderful friend...

Organised to meet up with Anja this morning in Troghi- Zoe and Zac's lovely kindy teacher from 2013. Was really great to catch up and reminisce . The kids were so happy to see her again. Still soooo hot here- high 30s. Felt very nostalgic driving along all the beautiful Tuscan country roads from 4 years before. As lovely as ever...even in the baking heat! Pencil pines, old stone buildings with terracotta rooves, golden fields- ahhhh bella Italia!! Headed off aft...