This blog is essentially for me.  I felt like I needed an outlet for my creativity, and an easy way to keep track of the many things that happen day-to-day.  Nothing earth-shattering, but important to me if only in their small, daily ways. 

A blog also strikes me as a really nice way to stay in closer touch with friends and family, most of whom live far, far away.

Chances are, you already know a thing or two about me.  Why else would you be here? 

But just in case, here are the essential bits:  I’m Joan, an American woman living in Italy, and I’m the mother of two seriously great kids. 

People who don’t know any better are always jealous of the Italy bit.  Guess what?  It’s not as romantic and wonderful as you might think.  Still, lots of people assure me I have an interesting life. 

I tend to think of it as merely complicated.