And now for a little spaghetti ...

The Northwest Corner adjourns quietly for recess. Its proprietor traipses off for a couple of weeks in Italy, seeking to be warmed by a Mediterranean sun, enriched by surroundings of historical and cultural significance, and nourished by meals based on pasta and wine.

His editorial offices -- a driftwood shack perched on the bough of a fir tree overlooking Puget Sound -- will be once more unlocked and ready for business on May 27.

Arrivederci, e buona fortuna!