Aunt Robin

Well, my perspective isn't the most important in all of this, but I am officially an aunt!

My nephew David was born at 7:47 this morning. He was 7 lbs. 1 oz. and 20.5 inches long, I think. I got my first picture via cell phone, and he's a cute little fellow. Tiny.

And fortunately, I got the news before I left for my trip, and have time to see all the pictures before I go. Can't wait to go visit in January.

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Oh Deer

It was early Friday morning when I was coming home from a friend's house. Driving through the dark, twisty, windy roads, I was on alert for deer. I made it all the way to Leesville Road and well-lit territory and breathed a sigh of relief.

Then, I was crossing 540 when a car came up from the right. Then BAM!

No not Emeril. As far as I know, it was a deer. Knocked my left headlight well back into the engine. Crumpled or cracked the left side of the front fascia and left front quarter panel. Much blood and guts all over the front of the car.

After a day of hounding the insurance company, I got an appointment for 2:30 today. Upon arrival at the claims center, the adjuster says the car really isn't drivable. A few thousand for the cosmetic damage and who knows how much underneath.

But it looks like it's at a good body shop, and now my parking problem while I'm gone is solved. So long as I can get to work on Monday...

Money Matters

I've taken care of so many things, but I hadn't quite figured out what to do about money. Cash. Euro. Swiss Francs.

Turns out, after researching exchange rates, transfer fees, changing percentages, that the ATM card is the way to go. I juggled a few bills and transferred some money from savings, and even found more money in one account than I expected. The credit card is cleared and ready to use where possible. And I have some leftover cash from my neighbor to get me started.

And make sure that you call your bank to let you know you're going.

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10 days and counting

I think the countdown is right. In 10 days, I'll be on a plane for Europe. Actually, at this time I'll be headed to Atlanta, but we won't be picky.

I got my travel documents yesterday. I read about optional trips to the countryside in Lucerne, a Tyrolean night of fun, or an excursion to hear Mozart and Hayden. I can't believe this is my vacation trip. How cool is this?

Call me a geek buy I have actually practice packed. I got three sweaters, five turtlenecks, a pair of jeans, pajamas and lot of underwear and socks in my suitcase, plus a foldable one to take gifts in. I couldn't believe I got it right on the first try. I'll be wearing one of the sweaters, and I'll need to put in some personal items, but the carry-on will take some things too.

Finally, I got my digital camera. Now I have visions of taking "the picture" to hang in my stairwell. We'll see. I have 2 Gb of room to try in.