First Leg on the Trail Completed!

Well - we made it! Not too many bumps in the road, either - or bumps in the sky! Rick really is an old hat at flying and even though we didn't get upgraded to Business or First Class, he got us in Economy Plus, right at the front in the bulkhead - so there was plenty of legroom and space to catch a few zzz's and watch a movie or two. Believe it or not, we actually had dinner served - and it wasn't pretzels and cheese...an old-school, hot, probably-marriot-catered, foil-wrapped dinner. There was cause for prayer against coveting, though... Our seats were just behind the "curtain" of Business Class, where tablecloths cover trays, actual china is used, and chairs are upscale recliners in blue - with personal overhead lamps, I might add. We watched all this through the "curtain" which was made out of fishnet material - BUT we let it go and enjoyed our private bulkhead accommodations (next time I'm bringing my own tablecloth!).
Got to the ship early this morning in beautiful (bella bella) Italy. Driving here (on the bus) brought us through vineyards and farmland that was breath-taking. We're practicing our syllables to end in vowels so we can communicate - si! Prego. Our room is FABULOUS! We have a huge double bed and a sitting area with a big window looking out to sea. Stephanie sent flowers (thank you so much!!!) and Cindy our Travel Agent sent a welcome basket! We're feeling the love here! I'm wearing my ear patch and not feeling seasick - so all is well.
Tomorrow we dock at Sicily (Messina) and tour in the afternoon. Can't wait.
Will blog again in a few days... but in the meantime, know that our footprints are walking through a beautiful season of refreshment. Happy Trails.