Wishing you
festive FAMILY fun
in 2008!

Celebrating Michael's birthday
at a Mexican restaurant in Richmond, VA
November, 2007

I said to the man who stood at the gate of the Year,
"Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown."
And he replied, "Go out into the darkness and put your hand
into the hand of God. That shall be to you
better than light and safer than a known way."

Minnie Haskins (England, 1875-1957)

Dear Friends,

Here we are at the end of 2007. We started the year by saying goodbye to Paul Ricioppo; he passed away on February 5. A few months later, we said hello to Zooey Sophia Ricioppo, born July 5. She's fantastic, and we're all in love with her. Life in Europe is still very good - the pace, the lifestyle, the values, the people. In all, it has been another sweet year for Ron and me.

We didn't take any big trips this past summer. Instead, we spent the spring and summer replacing our deck over the canal behind our house. In summer 2008, we intend to just sit out there, do nothing, and enjoy the results of last year's labors!

I spent most of the fall in the US. In November, Ron also came over for two weeks. We had a fabulous time - with my mom in Atlanta, and with the boys and their families in Richmond.

Here are some of our favorite photos from 2007.

We thank each of you for your wonderful, enduring friendships. For 2008, we wish you good health, the energy to accomplish what you want, a safe place within, and lots of joy in your days and in your hearts.

Love,
Ron and Grace

it's good to go HOME