Austin, TX

First, every married couple should go away together for the two weeks we share. I decided that Melissa and I would go to Europe every year after our first trip. I always say “we travel to Europe the last week of April and the first week May” In all of my travels I have never met anyone with that type of certainty in their life and for that I am sad.

Second, if you can make it to Egypt there is an alternative. It is much cheaper to jump in a dumpster and to hang out for a few days. Draw a triangle to represent the pyramid to complete the atmosphere.

Third, Rhodes…As much as Egypt disappointed, Rhodes delivered. I have never had my expectations more surpassed. The folks on the cruise backed me up. As much as I wanted it to be my own, they recognized it too… and God delivered St. Paul there as well.

Fourth, Athens… Dang I live a charmed life… Maybe God does have a purpose for me. They rioted, went on strike, killed people, …. yet our time there was perfect. I was only ripped off twice and managed to leave with everything that was important (Melissa).

Fifth, we made friends. Some I hope we keep. Bastian could have been the anchor for the boat. He was that big. He was German but came to America to play Football. He played at Iowa State as a Center. His wife Nicole is a pistol. They have the zest for life that I want to always have. “Stay thirsty my friends”.
We had great companions in Joyce and Dom our Australian friends from Perth. They spoke fluent Italian and added much to our day in Taormina.

Sixth, Yara the girl who kept our room. “How are you, Mr. Ruuusselll!!!” Every time I walked down the hall. I could have taught her to make a few mortgages… Yara- I hope you have a great two months with your daughter!

7th, Cruise Director Paul, Paul on the third day, I told you to offer me a job….I think I might have had too many drinks that day. I want to keep this fun and not work. Thanks for sending down your business card and keeping up with Melissa and I. You did an awesome job!! Be proud of your efforts and your staff!

8th, Gonzalo and Lloyd. I am a creature of habit and they knew that. For instance, my nightly scotch or two.. It was a real treat being served by these two fine gentlemen. For Melissa, I was easy to find, just outside the dining room and when she did find us, they treated her like royalty. Thank you my friends.

9th, Anamaria and Murat, our lovely waiter and assistant waiter. What a wonderful experience having you serve us! Melissa says my English wavered but your service never did. I hope the man downstairs is behaving Anamaria. (Her boyfriend worked downstairs)

Now I am pretty sure I have to go back to work. Anybody need a mortgage? I have waffled a bit on this trip. Before we left, I said I would not go back to Europe without my children. Now I have doubts, there are only so many places in the worlds that take your breath away. I want to be with my children when they experience that, but you only see things in that way one time. The whole family traveled to Chitzen Itza last year. Chitzen Nitza was one of those moments for me, but I don’t think the kids saw it that way. I asked them to read this blog while I was gone but no one had the time…SO Kids if you ever read this far and want to join in Dad’s passion, make a comment on the blog. I will know you are ready. Otherwise, I love you forever and be waiting for the day you want to discover the world. I will always be ready to do it with you.

Adios,

Roaming Russell