The drought of WiFi has been broken. We just got to Rome, but since I have been unable to access the modern technological world for so long, I will make up for lost time- consequently this may be a loquacious post…so get ready…to rock steady.

After Paris we stopped in Annecy – a beautiful provincial town in France that is all built around a huge glacial lake. Swans everywhere, clearest water I have ever seen, delicious dinner- it was a lovely evening. The next day we made the 12 hour bus drive to Florence, Italy. Needless to say, there was some serious bonding going on during the twelve cramped, crick-in-your-neck, drooling-all-over-yourself drive. Apparently I am not a very cute sleeper.
Florence was one of the most beautiful places I have been in my life. Unfortunately it rained for the first few days, but it didn’t affect much. I am still blown away by all of the artwork I have been able to see. Michelangelo’s David was about 17 feet tall, flawless, and literally breath taking. We climbed the 463 steps in tiny cave/tunnels to get to the top of the Duomo, visited the Medici Chapel, the Uffisi Museum, Del Carmine, the Acadamea, the Bargello. I was able to touch the very paint of the frescoes of Massaccio and the marble of Michelangelo. And on top of it all, I bought me some snazzy looking leather sandals.
Our last night in Florence was my favorite evening so far- it was beautiful weather and there were live bands everywhere. Florence is a river town, so the breeze off the river made for the perfect evening- and the gelato didn’t hurt either. I may be obese by the time I come back to the good ole US of A.
So those are the highlights, I suppose, and I am now in Rome. I will soon be in the Sistine Chapel and on a walking tour of the Ancient City. I am still in awe. This summer is shaping up to be quite lovely. Lots of great photos, lots of new friends, lots of good food- who could ask for more?