Wednesday April 20, 2011 — Remembering Skip went well

Max and patti did a great job of organizing a lovely night at Mendociino Stories devoted to the reading of some of Skip's stories followed by one set played by our son Mike and his duo with our granddaughter Leah joining in with them at the very end. I don't think they are used to narrowing themselves down to one set. The musicians were as wonderful as ever but seemed to be in a more low keyed or subtle mood than I am used to hearing them. A few people had to leave before Leah played so I hope they'll get a chance to hear her on some other date. Because they were staying with us overnight, I got to listen to them really let loose the next day. That's always a thrill. I was so touched that they came all the way up to Mendocino for this event. I think they had a good time and we certainly had a great time visiting with them.

Sunday I headed for the Bay Area because Chuck and I were flying to Italy on Monday. Long flight with the usual lack of leg room. We had only one isle seat between us so we traded off every few hours for a bit more comfort. Chuck particularly needed the knee space. Each time I've flown the last couple of years, I think they've simply gone over the line of what's a reasonable amount of space to allow for each passenger. Then, the next time I fly, they've gone just a little further. I'm sure this complaint is going to make a big difference in that situation.

Steve met us at the Turin airport and we had a great visit and lovely risotto dinner made by Susan. Today is actually Thursday here. We lost one day on the way over and my computer is totally confused about that. I'm keeping it on the U.S. settings since we are only here for eight days. That includes doing the sit all day routine on the plane in reverse. A bit brutal.

Steve and Susan arranged for us to stay at a charming hotel on the side of the hill above Moncalieri, which is just a few miles from Turin. We're only about a ten minute drive from where they live. Mira had the last two of six finals yesterday so we quizzed her on possible questions for her history test before we returned to our hotel. This charming place consists of several rows of rooms with common verandas and a sunny courtyard between them as they climb up the hill. I have a lovely little suite on the first level with living room/kitchen, bath and room with a super comfortable bed. Chuck is on the next level and he has to be careful he doesn't hit his head on the ceiling when he goes to bed or rises because his bed is under the low end of a loft reached by a spiral staircase. He had the choice of that suite or one more like mine but which had too much lingering smoke to keep him company. So far he hasn't complained of a head trauma from his morning rising. He tells me he is entering from the foot of the bed to avoid hitting the ceiling. I'm crossing my fingers for him.

Steve made a reservation for us in a nearby town of Chieri to see a textile museum that was absolutely wonderful. Must go now, but will get back later or tell you about it tomorrow.