Happy birthday, Jane Addams

Oh, and happy birthday {weekend} to you too, Alyssa! You share your day with Jane Addams, Brad shares his with the Dalai Lama and I share mine with Lewis "Scooter" Libby. Awesome.




Alyssa, in the Gardens of Rodin (Paris, France).

Pete and Alyssa's 2007 blog throughout Western Europe. "We plan to travel simply, volunteer, and build relationships with locals and family."

Alyssa was one of the first people I met, 10 years ago now, during freshman orientation at college. We were in the same mentor group (is this a Christian College thing?) and started off in the same major. I'd like to think that I'm a different person now at 28 than my 18-year-old self but it has been a rewarding journey having several long term "met-in-college friendships." She's been a great friend, a listening ear and creative accountability partner over the years. Alyssa is also a wonderful traveling pal, roommate, camping buddy and concert companion!

Cortona, Italy (June 2004)
The group: 11 in all, 1 rented villa, 1 rented car

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Here's a "Scout Sunday" in the theme of Alyssa's blog...

Brad and I took a walk around our neighborhood and loaded this curb-side discovery into our Jeep last night. Poor Brad, I have no upper body strength. I am made of weak sauce. It was a royal pain getting it into our apartment- I have a large bruise to prove it, too! Perhaps Alyssa will have some artsy suggestions for repurposing this dresser. Maybe I'll order some of her drawer pulls.