The summer days flew by in a blur.
One of our family’s favorite ways to connect is to share a travel adventure.
We stopped over in England to raise a glass with Cousin Nancy at The Eagle and Child, a favorite hangout of J.R.R. Tolkien.
Then on to Romania…
…Hungary…
…and Slovakia.
It was like stepping back in time.
In some places horse-drawn carts and hay wagons were almost as common as automobiles.
Travelers shared the road, no matter what their mode of conveyance.
During haying time in Romania…
…everyone seemed to be out working in the fields with their wooden rakes and hayforks.
Grandma and Grandpa too. 
While shepherds watched over their sheep, as they have done since time out of mind.
We visited beautiful villages…
…and cities.
We saw the ancient painted churches of Bucovina, designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
We tried some new things…
…met some new friends…
…and made memories which we shall enjoy for the rest of our lives.
It’s thrilling to go out into the world, but just as wonderful to come home again.
We found a treasure or two on our travels, but the best souvenirs…
…are always the new friendships, insights, and perspectives we carry home with us.
All words and images c2015 Naomi Baltuck.
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Writing Between the Lines 