submitted by Val

THOUGHT OF THE DAY: Carpe diem

The day dawned, as usual, with the hopeful sounds of our neighbor to the east – a hyperactive rooster cockadoodling from 4am through the evening, every ten minutes. We are tempted to purchase one of the many Easter hens in storefronts to keep him quiet.

Some of use went to work today, while others had the day off. Barbara and Elizabeth soldiered off to work; Tony went scuba-diving (ama – against medical advice since he tore a ligament in his shoulder with his fall last week. Like all men, he’s created a myth to cover up the truth of his stumbling fall and has told the boys at school he got it playing football. Playground news travels fast and gets twisted. (By next week Tony will probably be playing in the World Cup!)

Val, Eileen and Julie drove off in a zippy, red car rental – a Toyota Aygo – which cost 80 euros for 3 days. Destiny Ayios Nicholaos and Spinalonga—definitely worth seeing. A lovely city and Spinalonga has a fascinating history as it was last lived in by a leper colony disbanded in the mid-1950’s. Driving on the highways is easy, and the views are spectacular as you wind through the mountains. Don’t be afraid to rent and drive – there is really only one main highway that runs end to end. Adventuring off the main roads can be confusing, but always fun.

Patricia ventured off with her family to Reminthon where they were happy to witness a baker making filo dough The city is very busy and not a great destination for the very young, 3-year-old Julian. The organic farm was closed. Posted hours are irrelevant here. Museums and doctors close before hours, seemingly on a whim.

Tony returned from the watery depths, having had the pleasure of going down 30 meters to see a cave. Cool. Elizabeth braved it out alone at school, and conducted so many rounds of bingo that she’s taking Thursday off to recuperate!

Tonight we a have a night out on the town up at Arolithos for a Greek dinner and traditional dances.