Phew. . .

We've been running around all day long for the last couple of days -- some things are going smoothly, others just a bit doubtful.

We met with the notaio, who gave us the estimate of the taxes and her fees. Much. Way much. We have to pay about Euro 7850 more because we are foreigners and bought outside of the area of where we work. Bummer.

We made visits to the realtor and the bank.

Most importantly -- we set a date of July 30 with the bank and notaio to close on the house. (Yes, that is the day that Maddy and I are leaving. We may have to change that.)

We met with the post housing office. That took an inordinate amount of time, but the housing counselor was knowledgeable and helpful and will actually help with the connection of the utilities.

We had a car accident. Everyone is safe, but now we have to deal with the issue of getting the car fixed.

We met the appraiser. Please, please give us a high appraisal. Some folks think that it shouldn't be a problem, others think that there is no way we'll get what we need. (Remember the mortgage amount available is based on this appraisal.)

Back and forth. Back and forth. Back and forth. We sent Maddy to school to spare her the misery of the car rides.