So that's what that thing is for ...

With the invention of the CamelBack and other ingenious (although nasty-tasting) hydration devices, I was beginning to think those little deely-bobs on bike frames would become extinct. But today, I was feeling quite virtuous (there's that word, Val) and decided to ride my bike to the grocery store. [Of course, I opted against riding uphill to the Safeway and instead took the flat-ish route to Vitamin Cottage/Natural Grocer. My laziness cost me at least $20 extra in the high-end organic super-duper groceries. But anyway ...] After stuffing my backpack full of goodies, I realized I did not have room for the bottle of wine I planned to purchase. But no worries, "old" technology to the rescue:




Glad to say I made it safely home, although I dodged every bump possible to ensure that my precious cargo did not shatter.

Pourquoi France?

Or is it, Pourquoi la France? Either way, I realize we never really explained what the heck we are doing selling our house and moving. Well, if this isn't reason enough:

(I mean, come on, isn't that beautiful and quaint and everything the French Alps should be?) I'll see if I can come up with a better explanation. Mark is actually better at explaining all this, but he is off to help Max install wood floors in Suzy's condo. Soooo, here goes ...

It all started at Thanksgiving, when we were getting ready to break the news to my folks that we were seriously considering moving to Tasmania (yes, in Australia). Before we had really broached the subject, Mark got a call from Neil "Willy" Baxter from somewhere in France. Willy had been living in the town of Samoens, France, off and on for the past two years and he thought it had great potential for some business opportunities, not to mention property investment. Mark and Willy have wanted to work together for ages, so perhaps this was the big chance.

Mark was intrigued, as was I (not only by the thought of moving there but also by the idea of finally getting a First World vacation, with real toilets and showers and everything!). So we immediately made plans to visit in February. Once there, we fell in love with the town. Mark and Catherine and Willy have been hammering out their business plan ever since. Essentially they will be running a high-end tourist operation geared toward Europeans (mainly the strong-pound-loving Brits).

The paperwork is being completed this week, and then Mark will apply for his visa. The plan is to be there by September (perhaps Mark might go sooner). In the meantime, we will most likely be living in Dallas once the house is sold (more on that subject to be posted soon). Yes, Dallas ... in the summertime. Sounds like fun, doesn't it?

And the most important question:

Yes, Kai will be going with us. (Doesn't he look just thrilled at the prospect?)

However, we are torn as to what to do with little old Chester. Anyone want to give a loving home to our most adorable eighteen-year-old cat??

Where are the Joffes, indeed?

My goodness, has it really been 10 days since our last post. Time flies when you are floating down the river! Our trip down the San Juan was great, although not quite the totally relaxing experience we were hoping for. A freezing first night in camp after a 10-hour drive was not exactly welcoming, but Mr. Sun came out and warmed us up during the rigging of the boats. The first two days on the river were spectacular. Lots of drifting and floating and beer drinking and sunning. Aaaahhhhh, heaven! And the food was all delish!



On Day 3, however, the Evil SOB Wind came from downstream and would not let up, not even for a second. So what was supposed to be our easy, don't-even-put-the-oars-in-the-water day became a horrendous 9-mile slog down the river. Thanks to all the men (and Liane) for getting us downstream!! I hope someone got pictures of our five-boat barge!

Then the next day was over before we knew it and it was time to derig. The trip home started out fine, but once we hit Moab, we discovered that the mountains between us and home were being hit by a spring snow. James and Mark were our champions and got us safely over two passes, all while towing a 16-foot trailer. We were in bed by 4 a.m. Thursday. Today, Monday, I feel like I am almost recovered from the ordeal, and I didn't even drive or row!

But, really, it was great and a fantastic group of people, including two stellar six-year-olds ... yes, you, Katya and Pearl.


Pearl and Katya (and Chris and Greg)

For now, I must get back to work.