Where We are Going

2025

Segovia

Stone, Sky, and Storybook Magic — A Day in Segovia

Just a short train ride from Madrid, Segovia greeted us with sunlit stone and centuries of stories. We wandered beneath the towering Roman aqueduct,  climb the castle tower, explored the holy cathedral and lingered over lunch on quiet terrece at the alcazar where time seemed to pause.  In a single day, Segovia offered a glimpse of Spain’s layered soul—ancient, regal, and effortlessly enchanting.   A must see UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Tuscany

A Week of Renaissance, Vineyards, and Hilltop Charm

Nestled in the heart of Chianti, our week in Tuscany unfolded like a sun-drenched canvas of art, wine, and winding medieval streets. We settled into Villa Castellare dé Sernigi, where the welcome dinner—prepared by the villa’s own chef—set the tone for a week of indulgence and exploration. Mornings began with hot tub dips and espresso-fueled swims, followed by strolls past modern sculptures and olive groves.

Florence dazzled us with its Renaissance grandeur: from crossing the Ponte Vecchio to marveling at the Duomo and the statues of David and Neptune. Irene, our guide, led us through piazzas and wine windows, while sunset over the Arno and dusk views from Piazzale Michelangelo etched themselves into memory.

We sipped our way through Tenuta Torciano with Matteo, wandered the towers of San Gimignano, and returned to Florence for the Uffizi and a bit of shoe shopping. Midweek brought a trio of hill towns—Barberino Val d’Elsa, San Donato in Poggio, and Montefioralle—each with its own charm, culminating in a cellar tour beneath the ancient abbey at Badia a Passignano.

Rain gave way to golden light in Castellina in Chianti, where we climbed towers and admired Etruscan relics. In Siena, we navigated narrow streets and piazzas, met Sofia for a walking tour, and capped the day with another chef-prepared feast back at the villa.

Our final morning gifted us sunrise photos and hot air balloons drifting over the Tuscan hills. By afternoon we were back in Madrid, toasting the trip with tapas and stories shared with Sandi from Greenbelt. Tuscany had wrapped us in its timeless beauty—and we were already dreaming of a return.

Toledo

A Timeless Tangle of Stone and Story

Just a short train ride from Madrid, Toledo feels like stepping into a living tapestry woven from centuries of history. Perched above the Tagus River, this ancient city greets you with winding cobblestone streets, golden-hued buildings, and echoes of Roman, Visigothic, Moorish, Jewish, and Christian legacies all layered into its walls. We spent the day wandering through its maze-like alleys, marveling at the grandeur of the cathedral, and soaking in panoramic views from the hilltops. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, look closer, and imagine the lives that once filled these storied streets.

Madrid

Settling into Spain: Madrid’s La Latina Welcome
Our first month in Spain began in the heart of Madrid’s La Latina neighborhood—a maze of narrow streets, lively plazas, and centuries-old charm. As we unpacked our bags and began to settle into a new rhythm, the city quickly welcomed us with its vibrant energy and warm hospitality.

Your days start with breakfast on our balcony overlooking the morning stillness of our street, before the hustle and bustle of shoppers and tourists arrive.  Then a walk exploring the Roman streets of Madrid with the dogs, often walking to one of the many parks and gardens. 

We found a local gym just steps from our centrally located flat, where daily workouts became part of our new routine. Markets like Mercado de la Cebada introduced us to fresh produce, jamón ibérico, and the art of shopping with a basket in hand and time to spare. Evenings were spent discovering neighborhood restaurants, from cozy tapas bars to elegant spots serving modern Spanish cuisine.

This first chapter was all about grounding ourselves—learning the pace of Spanish life, embracing late dinners, and letting the city’s rhythm guide us. Madrid didn’t just host us; it invited us to live like locals.

Cottage

Frauenheim Cottage: A Legacy on the Lake
Since 1937, when Mike’s grandfather first built this lakeside haven on White Stone Point, the Frauenheim cottage has been the heart of five generations of summer memories. What began as a simple retreat has grown into a cherished family tradition—where days are filled with boating, kayaking, swimming, bonfires, and movie nights under the stars. It’s a place where lifelong friendships are rekindled and new stories are written each season.

Now, as Mike and David embark on new adventures abroad, the cottage has become their official U.S. home base. They plan to return each summer to soak in the familiar rhythms of lake life and continue the legacy of connection, relaxation, and joy that defines this beloved retreat.

The Move

To make this the next chapter of David and Mikes life work they had to sell their house in the small town of Greenbelt, MD.   Here is the video of the house they completely remodel in 2017 and sold in 2025.    They officially live at the Cottage on Lake Huron.  

Greece

Gail’s Special Birthday Adventure

To celebrate Gail’s milestone birthday in 2025, she and David—best friends for years—crafted a journey worthy of the occasion. The adventure began with three dazzling days in New York City, where they were joined by Mike. Together, they soaked up the energy of the Big Apple with two Broadway shows, a classic dinner at Sardi’s, and a bit of timeless sightseeing.

From there, Gail and David jetted off to Athens, Greece. Their first afternoon was a delicious immersion into local culture with an authentic Greek cooking class and meal. That evening, they glided through the historic streets of Plaka on a Segway tour—an unexpected highlight that brought ancient Athens to life.

Next stop: Mykonos. They explored the island’s rugged terrain, visited seven stunning beaches, and even kayaked along the wild northern shore. Then it was on to Paros, a gem of the Cyclades that still radiates traditional charm and tranquility.

But the celebration wasn’t over yet. With a quick hop to Santorini, they capped off the trip with 24 hours of boutique shopping, sunset chasing, and a night in a dreamy cave hotel carved into the cliffs.

A birthday trip for the books—filled with laughter, discovery, and the kind of memories only the best of friends can make.

NYC  Gail's Birthday Weekend