So I was basically away for the entire month of August which was unexpected. My entire family and I went over to England, where I have a lot of distant relatives, and then on a vacation within a vacation to the Continent, specifically to Germany, Belgium, France, and Luxembourg, a trip back to where I lived in Germany as a youngster way back when. Getting off the airport was a hassle and looking for a decent taxi even worse. There were so many people looking to catch a taxi. But through all the flight issues we had and the parking4less rental, my family's place in England is vacation enough, out in the country between Oxford and London, and it was, as always, such a joy to be there as well, if not nearly for long enough.

Suffice it to say, we had an amazing time, with my kids picking up some French along the way and now able to say "No!" in several different languages. Great memories.

I tried to avoid the news as much as possible while away. I saw the headlines in The Times and on BBC and , but I wanted to be away from politics. My brother and I talked politics a few times, notably after Santorum got out of the race, but that was about it. I needed a break. And I got it. (Thanks again to Michael for taking over during my absence. He's been on fire lately.)

But... it's time to get back to it. And I will. Later. For now, here are a few photos from my trip:

Stone Henge:



French wine store!