It was a beautiful trip. Italy, even in the midst of a chaotic national election and certain economic crisis, believes in la dolce far niente. That means that no matter what your day job, or lack thereof, there is a certain idleness that the day will accommodate. This is why you can’t get your coffee to go. This is why, when my new pal Glenna asked to take home her leftovers, the waitress looked baffled and said, “I’m not sure. I don't think we do that here. I'll ask.”

Most of my time these days is spent wondering if my sister’s gone into labour yet. Six days ‘till due date. In the meantime, I’ll post a photo of the wee Maya Aliyah Schneiderman, born to Irena and Jamie about six weeks ago. Keep sweet, little girl.