We have traveled extensively this year thanks to my work and our love for our family.

France - A whirlwind trip the second week in June. One day in Paris, two days in Normandy, three days in Cannes, of which one and a half days was spent in a meeting followed by an extravagant black-tie dinner in a medieval castle on the water. Loved Paris more than we thought we would...Normandy was very moving for my WWII knowledgable husband, and Cannes, well, it's beautiful but pricey. Definately would return to Paris and everyone must go to Normandy at least once in their life to pay their respects.

Alaska cruise - This was a 70th birthday celebration for my mother-in-law the last week in June (we had five days to recover from France before jumping on another plane to Vancouver). Also along for the journey was my father-in-law, my husband, my mother and brother (my brother treated my mom), and my husband's brother and his wife. Three balcony cabins together and the fourth cabin was two decks up in a "junior suite" (my brother is spoiled). Fabulous, fabulous time. Glacier was the fave of everyone. First cruise for everyone but my brother (he is a cruise veteran) and we were all impressed with the luxurious surroundings and ate waaayyy too much food. Disappointed though in the lack of any night life and the quality of the shows, and the few whales we saw. But would go back in a heartbeat!

Australia - Nine days after returning from Alaska, we jumped on a 14 hour flight to Australia thanks to an invitation for me to speak at a conference (my first time speaking...very nervous). The speech went well and as we have experienced once before in 2001, the Australians are fabulous, generous and fun people! We spent the whole week in Cairns...my husband went diving, I snorkeled, we experienced the Kuranda Railway, explored the aborigine culture center, and took the city bus up the coast to Trinity Beach (magnificiant) and Palm Cove (our favorite). Our surprise was at the heavily Asian influence in this tropical city, but were told it was because Japan is only a six-hour flight. Disappointed in the quality of snorkeling/diving, though. Water was not as clear as we expected whether on a nearby island or at the outer reef. Perhaps overcrowding is taking a toll on one of nature's wonders of the world.

Hawaii - We leave on this trip Sept. 26! Will post details later!