OK, I’m going to stop obsessing about the book and pack. We’re traveling light, but did find a long single carrier that will keep all three cats comfy on the back seat. First stop is Athens, NY right outside of Hudson, NY, where we will stay at Brigit and Casey’s for three weeks to housesit and puppysit while they’re in Italy. 136 N. Washington Street, Athens, NY 12015

Then we move 45 minutes up the mountain to the little house next door to Linda and Rolfe’s place. We’ll be on the road for two or so days beginning this Wed. am,7/19, ambling rather than trying to hit a deadline, arriving the afternoon of the 21st. My new laptop holds a four-hour charge so I can sort files at least and get a grip. We will come home following Labor Day, probably about the 11th of September. Billy may make a flight in midway to check on things. I have two books to get my arms around and several photographs–food shots–and food testing to do, one on deadline and one to get some major work done on during the break from New Orleans.

In the short term, I’m posting the family address and phone list so you all can find each other. We’re packing cells, Blackberry and laptops, so phone and e-mail will reach us anywhere. Kit