I need to get out of here

I actually have a valid excuse for not blogging this time! Kristen and I decided to spend two weeks in Italy. We headed over in October and spent two fantastic weeks between Rome and Tuscany (though most of the time was spent in Tuscany). We're already talking about what to do on our next round over there (hopefully within the next 3 years).

On the plane back home, I didn't sleep much. Instead, I had a deep reflection session with myself. The first question people ask, is "how was your trip", the second is almost always "what was your favorite part"? But how can I ever put those experiences into words? It's impossible for me to verbalize those amazing experiences. How can you describe the smell and ambiance of the Sistine Chapel? Or how the wind sounds at night next to the Colosseum? Or how soft Gelato is? Those experiences are somewhat personal and I don't know if I could ever fully explain it. So my answers are always "The trip was amazing", and "Seeing the Tuscan countryside (and wineries) was probably my favorite".

As I'm typing this, I can't help but think of similiar experiences I've had in my life. The two that jump out at me most, is how the lawn feels under the Eiffel tower at night (especially with a baguette and wine). And how the transition of overly-busy Rio de Janeiro feels when you walk a block to the beach, and suddenly it's peaceful and almost quite.

While on the train to Florence, a lady told me "There's a difference between vacation and travel". And I would almost argue that traveling is better than a vacation.....

And here are some sidenotes:

- Michael Cuddyer will be gone in the offseason. Sorry Twinkie fans. It's my off season prediction

- My Superbowl picks are Green Bay v. Pittsburg.

- Is there anything more tasty than sushi in the afternoon? I don't think there is!

- I went to Pinstripes the other weekend. Wine and bowling? Don't mind if I do!

- I'm on week 14 of my current workout regime. I've noticed a major definition change, but I can't seem to put on weight! My goal was to add 10 pounds of muscle, but so far I'm only up to about 4. Damn this rapid metabolism!

- I need a new arch enemy in my life. Joe Cooper just isn't cutting it in the "nemesis" category.

Well it's Saturday. And for me that means 2 hours at the gym, a HUGE lunch, a nap, and some major fun tonight. Minneapolis streets and random people I will see: I apologize in advance.