Italian Alps & Riekers

Meg and Mark Rieker, the sister and brother-in-law of friends in our ward (Kirt and Lilian Fulcher) were very generous in welcoming us into their home in Maniago, Italy. Maniago is close to the Alps in Northeast Italy.

Another highlight was staying with them and being able to enjoy the Alps. Danae & I both love the mountains and it was nice to ride and hike a little through them.

On Wednesday the 16th, the day before we left, we wound through to Nove to buy some (more) souvenirs (ceramics, etc.) and then spent the night in Florence before starting our trek back.

Calista is very skilled with her hands. While at the Riekers, Marks parents were visiting (as he was ordained a high priest now that he is in the bishopric). Calista was standing on the lap of Mark's mother just playing and she grabbed for her earring. I saw it and the sister, to which she said it was OK. I kept watching and two-seconds later I saw something shiny in Calista's hand - yep, she had smoothly removed the earring and started to play with it. I'm going to have to watch this smooth handed little girl! :)

We must say, we consider ourselves very blessed that through all of this Calista enjoyed it all, saying "hi" to all she met, and in essence charming them. (We noticed that she had a preference for men - so I'm going to really have to keep an eye on her!) She also traveled very well. We told her since she traveled so well, we can take her on more trips. Hopefully to Hong Kong next! :)

Love,
Jerry, Danae & Calista