Florence

After the magic of Venice I found Florence dirty and crowded. I managed to navigate the public bus system up to Pizzale Michelangelo which overlooks the city. From there I set off on foot with a map in hand in search of Villa Agape. I found myself wandering the beautiful Tuscan landscape following winding roads going up higher and higher. The villa was so beautiful! The nuns that run the villa are very sweet and kind and of course speak only italian. Me speaking only english proved to be entertaining, but we figured it out. I had a tour of Florence and the famous Uffuzi museum which was amazing. The next day I spent the whole day on a tour of two beautiful Tuscan towns, Siena and San Gimiarno. I loved Siena so much I actually recommend staying there and taking a day trip to Florence. I picked up a beautiful handmade leather journal in Florence. I can't wait to finish my current journal and start my new one! So far I have been fine traveling alone. I am surprising myself with my fabulous navigational skills and quick understanding of public transit. 

The following is a journal entry from my first night in Florence:

I have caught a glimce of heaven and this is what I saw - luscious rolling hills blanketed in rich shades of velvet green, the sun bouncing off the tops of the trees.  The green ocean of foliage stretched out across the valley and down towards the city.  I am perched on a quiet hilltop off of Piazzale Michelangelo watching the sun go down, enjoying a crisp white wine and a caprese salad.  The tomatoes grown in a garden nearby, the mozzarella so fresh it tastes as if it was made this morning.  In Italy the flavor of olive oil lingers in your mouth caressing the back of your throat.  All of the food is so simple and fresh.  Caprese salad is my new addiction...