Home early!

Hi all--unfortunately we had to end our trip early. Because of complications and side effects of my cancer treatment and increasing lymphedema in my left leg, it became very difficult to continue. Nothing life-threatening, but we thought it better to go home rather than risk further problems. We were able to change the flight easily (although not cheaply!) and are now safe and happy at home. We have trip insurance, so shouldn't lose any money.
Love to you all, Vern and Karen

Stress Free Stresa

Hi all--we made it safely to Stresa on Lake Maggiore. Looooong drive from Bormio to Malpensa, but then a short bus ride to this lovely spot. We have a beautiful room at La Luna Nel Porto Hotel overlooking the lake and are definitely chilling out. Tonight we go to a classical music concert at the Stresa concert hall; weather is iffy (kind of cloudy and might rain) so it will probably be a quiet day. Love to Jeff on his 31st birthday! And love to you all! V and K

Passo dello Stelvio

Today Vern rode the epic Passo dello Stelvio, with 48 switchbacks, gaining 6000 feet in 14 miles. I spent a couple hours at the Bormio Terme spa (I include a picture from the internet, since they were rather reluctant for me to take a camera into the baths.) We head for Malpensa Milan airport tomorrow morning and then take the bus to Stresa in Lake Maggiore for a little R and R. Having a great time! Love to all, Vern and Karen

To Italy!

Vern is riding the Bernina Pass and Albulapass into Italy today--I cleverly rode in the luggage van to Bormio, as it was beginning to rain before they left. He had a tough day yesterday, but a much better day today. He seems to get stronger as the week goes on. The Albulapass is a bear; and he has the Stelvio to look forward to tomorrow! I'm safely (and drily) esconced in my room in Bormio, after going to a little cafe for a panini. We're staying in a cute hotel named "Baita dei Pini" (which means "take a bite of my panini" in Italian. ) The bottom picture is when we crossed the Rhine River yesterday--very cool! I also must mention that our granddaughter Kasey's first day of kindergarten was Tuesday, and she was so excited! She loves her teacher, and most of all, loves the fact she can have chocolate milk for lunch. Remember when things were that simple? We are having a great time on the cycling tour, but it will be nice to stay in one place longer than 2 nights. It's a great group of people, who love to punish themselves and then eat a lot! Love to all, K and V