4CarpenterHouse

       We were able to take a week off and head up to Germany to visit our friend Laurie and see the local Christmas markets.  We had great winter weather and enjoyed visiting and checking out several markets. Wiesbaden, Saturday market in downtown.  The girls after riding the merry go round  Laurie and Laurel getting crazy while waiting for ear piercing. Ferris wheel ride above Wiesbaden.  Deanna enjoying gluhwein in Frankfurt.  Quick bite of typical market foods.  Salami at the market. Pretzel booth in Frankfurt.  Mark and Laurie enjoying the Gluhwein and local treat. Deanna and Laurel in Assmannshausen.  Yes, another picture of drinking and wandering around Rüdesheim am Rhein     Lunch time at the market.  We were there on Monday and had a great time.  The locals said that the weekend it was " just crazy" but we found no crowds and ...

        We escaped Sigonella to visits old friends who are stationed in Northern Italy and added a visit to Venice.  We flew into Verona, stayed at the Jackson's in Vicenza and flew out of Venice after exploring that city for a few days. Kids geared up 2016 The Jackson/Carpenter kids ready to play outside.  It was much colder in Northern Italy than we normally get in Sicily.  Our kids borrowed hats and gloves. The same kids in 2009 at our house in Virginia, minus the Jackson's little boy who came later. We have finally got to place in our life where we can have a adult table and a table for the kids.  Dining at a Chinese restaurant in the Jackson's neighborhood. We took a day trip to the surrounding town of Soave known for its castle and great tasting white wine.  We had a beautiful day to walk up to the castle and wander around.  View overlooking the town of Soave. The castle was open which ...