Around the World in 112 Days!: THE DECISION

DOESN'T THIS LOOK BETTER THAN FIGHTING IN COURT?

Why would a 48-year-old, successful attorney decide to shut down her practice for 4 months at the height of her career - and get her (ex) husband to follow suit - so they could cruise around the world?

First, I deserve it! I've worked since I was 13 -- full-time for the most part since graduating from high school at age 17. I've never had more than 2 weeks off, ever.

Second, I have a unique opportunity, which may never recur. To say this was a "good" year would be an understatement. I waited more than 4 years to receive a court-awarded payment for my legal fees in a case that is reputed to be the largest civil rights verdict in U.S. history against Child Protective Services (a corrupt Social Services Department took a former Miss California's children based on a lie about the mother, concocted to cover up their own mistreatment of the girls; it took her 6 years and cost her about $500K in legal and fees to regain custody of her girls). I may never have the financial ability to do this again . . . you never know.

Third, I want to go while I am still young and healthy enough to be able to snorkel, swim, walk, hike, climb (e.g., Sydney Harbor Bridge), ride zip lines, camels, jetfoils, catamarans and cable cars, and tredge out to the Acropolis, Olympia, and Iguazu Falls . . . and young (enough) to still look good in my pictures!

So why am I taking my ex-husband, Bill, along? We married as friends and remain great friends to this day. What can I say - I'm adorable (ha ha). This break from the stress of our daily legal practices may be just the prescription we both need -- either that, or we'll throw each other overboard!