Day 54 Firenze
Monday January 28th.
The is the second time I am writing this – I hit save just a minute ago and lost a full 30 minutes of work. I am really starting to hate word 2007 and Vista – I have never lost this much work t to software lockups.
I got up at 7 and woke of the Girls at 8am. We grabbed a quick bite – included with room and then headed to the car for the stressful drive across town to return it. We only got lost a couple of times and eventually got the car returned in one piece – no problems.
We struck out on foot – firs to the Piazza Santa Maria Novella – it was under renovation so we did not stay long. From there we headed to the Basilica de San Lorenza and paid to go inside. It was beautiful. From there we headed to the Cathedral – it was amazing – it seemed nearly as large as St. Peters in Rome. We paid to make the climb up the duomo. The views from the top were spectacular but I had a small attack of vertigo. There were only about 15 to 20 other tourists – I can only imagine what it must be like in high season. Actually the best part was getting to see the ceiling paintings up close – they are quite gruesome but mesmerizing – it is difficult to look away – for some reason from the distance I did not notice the details or comprehend the art. The scale is magnificent.
From there we walked to the Piazza della Republica – we thought we would get some drinks but after using the restrooms we quickly departed – a soda was 6 Euro. Allysha rode on the merry-go-round. We then walked to the Piazza della Signoria – there are a number of statues – very cool -I especially like the bronze statue of medusa and Neptune's fountain. There is also a copy of David.
Taking Mick's advice we walked back towards Piazza del Duomo and ate at a place called Coqinarius. It was small and cozy and it was cool to think that Mick and his family were here just a few months ago – probably helped by the same gentleman that served us. We had a feast and a bottle of Prosecco. The pear and cheese tortellini was amazing – a very interesting combination as you eat it the sweetness of the pear springs out of nowhere as you chew the pasta. The meal was terrific but Pam was in a very emotional state – not sure why – she was at the brink of tears through the whole meal. I think she needed some space – Aria had started to correct her and I think she is getting tired of it. On the walk here we saw a lady get knocked over by a car – she was fine but as Pam was running to help her Aria tried to stop her – it really upset Pam.
After lunch we hit the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo. There was a beautiful unfinished piece by Michelangelo Pieta – it was unfinished and actually damaged by him but still amazing. I am not sure what it is but when I look at his sculptures I can tell he was the artist. I am not sure why or how but it is so incredibly captivating. On the way out we bought some books on Davinci and Michelangelo.
On the walk back to the hotel we did some shopping, new boots for Aria, some used books, Skethchpad for Aria, some DVD's and Gelato for everyone.
Back to the hotel and as I am writing this Steve and Mick both IM me - I am going to publish this now.
