As much as I have pretended that the dollar and euro were equal when I was making purchases in Europe, my credit card bill knocked that fantasy right out of my head. But as of today, the euro is $1.18, and there is talk that it will be equal by spring. What fabulous news for the spring shopping season!

We are here in rainy Seattle for a bit longer, but looking forward to seeing the sun in Florence again soon. This is the view from my deck. So misty that visibility is very poor.

But this does not deter Chia, who dons her raincoat and goes walking with me every day. We have to stay in good shape for shopping! And with the currency situation so positive, I envision LOTS of shopping!