Dazzled by Michelangelo's David and Everything Else in Florence

Of course, that is any understatement. It is hard to comprehend how Michelangelo created such an amazing statue. It is a masterpiece beyond beautiful, beyond description, really. Check out Accademia Gallery: http://www.accademia.org/explore-museum/artworks/michelangelos-david/

Similarly, it was a mind-blowing moment when we turned the corner and beheld the massive and breathtaking Duomo of Firenze (Florence), or more correctly Santa Maria del Fiore, the cathedral of Florence. My photos are almost useless for conveying the scale and "awesomeness" of this structure. I'd include a photo, but it simply would not do it justice.

Also saw Donatello's wooden sculpture of Mary Magdalene. The sorrow of Jesus' death and perhaps the magnitude of understanding his love of her and forgiveness of her sins, all seem to be captured in her face and posture. 

No Planes, but Definitely Trains!

Yesterday wrapped up with wine at the hotel's little patio/garden then off to dinner at La Botte. I started with an app of mortadella and some fresh greens. My main course was grilled scampi - all delicious and beautifully plated. For dessert, I split Tiramisu with dinner mates Liz and Gerry, chasing my share with a decadent cappuccino. However, even that was not enough as afterward we went just around the corner for the requisite gelato - I had two scoops: pistachio and cream! 🐷 Oy, I was so stuffed I skipped this morning's breakfast!

As I type this, we are buzzing through the Italian countryside on the high speed train to Florence. So excited to see what today's adventure brings!

Friends, Romans and Countrymen

June 13

Today's sights included the Palantine Steps, the Forum and Colosseum.

We saw where Caesar gave the thumbs up or down and where he was cremated after assassination. The remains of the Temple of the Vestal Virgins included three towering columns. Next to that was the house of the Vestal Virgins. Beneath our feet were large and small cobblestones in place for more than 2,000 years old - can't imagine how many feet have stepped on them. Very humbling.

When in Rome...

Arrived in Rome yesterday (6/12).

Amazing and hard to believe! I am posting only a couple photos right now and will add more later. The pix are 1) at Trevi Fountain with. Fr. Bob and Fr. Stephen, and 2) My first authentic Italian gelato!