The smells of Europe - ahhhhh - I mean the stench

July, 23 2010 - A stinky story

First off, think of something smelly, something revoltingly smelly - perhaps an over flowing outhouse. Perhaps the stock yards of Ogallala, Nebraska. Maybe rotting food roils your tummy. Whatever it is, think of it, really remember it, and then times it by 10. Now I will continue with my story. And pardon the soon to be obvious pun, but you can't make this shit up.

Chris was already in bed journaling and thanking God that her feet were finally up after 11 hours of stone streets and marble floors. Izzy and I had gone down to the library where they kept a computer, or you could take your laptop to get wi-fi. As hard as we tried to really vacation and "unplug," it is next to impossible and tantamount to torture for a 15 year old not to be "connected," so I tried to give Izzy time at each hotel to do her tech thing. Anyway, that's what she was doing, and I was journaling. I only purchased 30 minutes of connectivity for her, so we were done in a jiffy much to her chagrin.

Upon exiting the library there is the faint odor of feces - nothing troubling - we all live with people, and we all defecate, so it is a smell we are all accustomed to. Izzy asks, "Mom, what is that smell?" "We're in a hotel sweetheart. It smells like somebody needed to shit and shave, and the odor is seeping out from under a door." We continue down the hall to the elevator and the smell is getting a little worse. "Mom, that was some dump." "Sure is, wonder what they had for dinner?" Passing the stairwell now, "Holy shit! What is that smell?" We quickly get on the elevator and find relief with the closing of the doors. "What was that?" "I don't know, I don't know, what were the loud sounds in the stairwell? Sounds like some sort of construction work in the basement." Doors open and a wave of putrid stench (think dear reader, back to your chosen smell x 10) hits us like a brick wall!!! "Hurry, hurry, unlock the door. Get in the room, get in tHE ROOM, GET IN THE ROOM!!!" We are practically climbing over each other because we can't get in the room fast enough, and we shut the door only to find that there is no relief. The smell is slightly diminished in the apartment, but it is still wildly present. Knock on Chris's door "Can you smell that? What is that smell?" Izzy has run to our room to hide and I am doing that gagging thing like when you are trying to get something out of the back of your throat. Chris is laughing her arse off and gets out of bed and walks into the common living area where the smell then hits her. Ended her laughter I-tell-you. She immediately flies to the phone to call the front desk. "What is that smell??? It smells like burning poop."

I looked out the window and people were seriously running in the streets with their hands covering their noses and mouths.

Turns out the Uffizi is flushing/cleaning their sewer system. Which begs the question, "Where do they flush the sewage?" The Arno River is right across the street. I'm just asking.

The incident was funny - annoying at the time, but also hysterically funny. One thing I've learned from our European travel adventures is that you have to have a sense of humor or you would never go back.

Even with the Uffizi defecating on one of the nights we were there, I would still stay at this hotel again - I'd just make sure I knew the schedule of the Big Uffizi Shit before I booked.

Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me

July 23, 2010 - The Last Supper

We made it back from the glass blowing factory just in time to make our 15:15 appointment at The Last Supper. They are very strict about how many people they let in at a time to see the painting (only 25), and when you are all there (or even if you're not) and precisely on schedule, they let you into the first room, where they seal you in to control humidity levels. After a moment you are released and you all leave together to view the masterpiece. FABULOUS!!!

The Last Supper – the final days of Christ’s life. In John 13:21, Jesus announces to his apostles that one of them would betray him. The Last Supper is a depiction of that moment and the reaction of each of the apostles to that declaration.

I would love to give a history lesson on the piece, but am afraid I would lose our readers, although I find the piece fascinating and it’s history tragic.

I feel such gratitude at being able to see it before it is gone forever, because that is what time and the atmosphere will finally do to it. But, if we seal it up, if we prevent it from being seen, what would be the purpose of it’s existence? A catch 22???

The work began to deteriorate almost immediately after it’s completion, and bungled attempts at restoration and war and vandalism further damaged it.

It is a huge piece of artwork. I knew it was big, but was surprised and thrilled to see just how big. It measures 15 ft × 29 ft and covers the back wall of the dining hall at the monastery of Santa Maria delle Grazie. It took 3 years for Leonardo to complete the work, but he did not work on it continuously. In the 19th century, a manuscript written by Da Vinci was found with the order and names of each apostle; before this only Judas, Peter, John and Jesus were positively identified.

The painting contains several references to the number 3, which represents the Christian belief in the Holy Trinity. The Apostles are seated in groupings of three; there are three windows behind Jesus; and the shape of Jesus' figure resembles a triangle. There may have been other references that have since been lost as the painting deteriorated.

Two early copies of The Last Supper are known to exist, presumably the work of Leonardo's assistant. The copies are almost the size of the original, and have survived with a wealth of original detail still intact, so we know what the original would have looked like if deterioration hadn’t taken place.

As a believer in Christ, I can not begin to tell you how moving the painting was for me. They were thoughtful enough to provide - in almost chapel form - benches for contemplation and reflection. 15 minutes was not enough time for me, but time enough to contemplate the final days of Christ's life and to give silent thanks for his radical yet simple teachings that changed mankind forever. What a beautiful world it would be if we could all live by those teachings.

Soffieria de Carlini

July 23, 2010 - de Carlini

An early start to the day. Took a train to Monza (20 min.). From there we hopped on a bus - no idea how to get tickets - probably in the train station, but we didn't. Thought we could maybe pay with coins like in the states, but no........ the bus driver took pity and let us ride for free. We had no idea how far or which stop to get off at. Chris asked a woman and she told us in Italian to get off at the stop after she got off. Worked like a charm and we were in Machiera where the Soffieria is. No idea where we needed to go, so called the factory and Lucca (shop owner) came on his bike to show us the way. 1/2 mile by foot??? Voila!!! We were there. What an entirely sweet family.

It was super interesting and highly gratifying to see where the ornaments that we love are made. The glass blowers that were working that day were fascinating to watch. Truly amazing what they can do with a torch and some breath. Really incredible! Both men had worked there for over 30 years. The ladies, including Lucca's mother were busy gluing the accessories and do dads onto the finished blown pieces. They also had been working there for most of their lives. They were happy to let us take photos of them while they worked. We met Luccas's father too. He looked through the inventory to find the ornaments we were interested in. A small family run business, but they seem to do very well. They have several small clients, but also some bigger contracts with large retailers like Saks, Barney's, Lord and Taylor, Gumps etc.

Chris was truly in hog heaven. She is a real collector of the glass. I have many pieces, but I also have other glass ornament makers that I really like too. People who know me, know that I don't put much stock in who you know, so although it was a special treat to meet the family, they're just people like me, getting by - on their own path through his life. Its pretty hard to get any hero worship from me - next to impossible really - our shit all stinks. The artistry is what impressed me. The commitment to family and hard work - that impresses me.

I felt so bad for Chris, she was unable to get all of the ornaments she would have liked. Me too. Next time we'll have to bring a lot more money!!! We both would have purchased many more if we could have. As it was, I got one and sometimes two for each of our immediate family. They didn't have all the ones Izzy wanted, so we are going to look for them on-line. Purchasing directly from the family however was much less than it would have been if we payed retail prices. They are getting close to $100 USD here at home, and they were in the 12 - 20 euro range, so quite a difference.

Lucca gave each of us a booklet with the family business history. Very sweet. Chris lost hers in the train station, but I'm sure Lucca will send her another when he ships our ornaments. Still, she was very upset for losing it. In retrospect, I should have given her mine, because quite frankly, it will just sit in a box.

We didn't have tickets for the bus, and weren't sure how we would get back. Completely unsure if the next bus driver would be as kind, so Lucca drove us in his car to the little mart that sold tickets. The proprietress was just leaving for lunch, but she sold us tickets anyway. Helps that Lucca is Italian and could speak quickly to her so she could understand our situation. I'll have to learn some basic Italian before my next trip. Lucca really was so sweet and gracious. I enjoyed our visit very much and hope to return some day. Can't wait to get my package of ornaments.

Milano

July 22, 2010 - Milan

What a different city than we have seen thus far. Each city has had it's own flavor, but Milan is really different. Ancient meets modern. It reminds me a bit of NYC, just not so busy. I have enjoyed all of the cities we have visited and could live in each of them for a limited time, but Milan is the first city that I could make a permanent residence in. Of course the fact that it is one of the shopping meccas of the world and IS the fashion capitol of the world certainly makes it more appealing to ME!!! The Galleria near the Duomo is fantastic. Next time I come I'll need thousands of dollars just for shopping.

Our hotel is essentially an efficiency hotel. No extras. Just the basics. The least of the hotels so far, but it is clean and has a friendly and helpful staff. I wouldn't choose to stay here again though.

We decided due to time constraints, that we would try to see de Carlini tomorrow before our reservation for The Last Supper. Chris called them directly and got directions - sounds like the adventure I was hoping for.

Today, we went to the Piazza del Duomo and looked at the ENORMOUS cathedral with it's umpteen spires. It is the 2nd largest cathedral in the world. 40,000 people can fit comfortably inside. The tallest spire is 109 meters high or 358 ft, and you can do a breathtaking roof walk - which we did - WOW!!! The roof climb provides a unique and memorable opportunity to walk h high on the roofs of the huge Gothic cathedral. The views are magnificent and the opportunity to see the pinnacles and sculptures close up along the way is worth the climb alone.

I'll let Mark Twain describe it for you...

What a wonder it is! So grand, so solemn, so vast! And yet so delicate, so airy, so graceful! A very world of solid weight, and yet it seems ...a delusion of frostwork that might vanish with a breath!...

The central one of its five great doors is bordered with a bas-relief of birds and fruits and beasts and insects, which have been so ingeniously carved out of the marble that they seem like living creatures-- and the figures are so numerous and the design so complex, that one might study it a week without exhausting its interest...everywhere that a niche or a perch can be found about the enormous building, from summit to base, there is a marble statue, and every statue is a study in itself...

Away above, on the lofty roof, rank on rank of carved and fretted spires spring high in the air, and through their rich tracery one sees the sky beyond. ...(Up on) the roof...springing from its broad marble flagstones, were the long files of spires, looking very tall close at hand, but diminishing in the distance...We could see, now, that the statue on the top of each was the size of a large man, though they all looked like dolls from the street...

Dinner at a great little place at the hoteliers recommendation. Much more contemporary than any place we have eaten yet. Not traditional at all. Yummy, fresh food. The proprietress looked like Donnatella Versace and was a delight!!!

The Trevi Fountain

July 21, 2010 - Trevi

The Trevi Fountain stands 85 feet high and 65 feet wide. It is the largest Baroque fountain in the city of Rome. The fountain at the junction of three roads (tre vie) marks the end point of the "modern" Acqua Vergine, the revived Aqua Virgo, one of the ancient aqueducts that supplied water to ancient Rome.

In 19 BC, supposedly with the help of a virgin, Roman technicians located a source of pure water 8 miles from the city. The scene is presented on the present fountain's facade. The aqueduct was 14 miles long and ended into the Baths of Agrippa. It served Rome for more than four hundred years. A traditional legend holds that if visitors throw a coin into the fountain, they are ensured a return to Rome. Current interpretation is that two coins will lead to a new romance and three will ensure either a marriage or divorce. Another version of this legend is that it is lucky to throw three coins with one's right hand over one's left shoulder into the Trevi Fountain. That is what we each did.

An estimated 3,000 euros are thrown into the fountain each day.The money has been used to subsidize a supermarket for Rome's needy. People regularly attempt to steal coins from the fountain.The Trevi fountain is featured in Federico Fellini's film La Dolce Vita starring Anita Ekberg and Marcello Mastroianni. The fountain was turned off and draped in black in honor of Mastroianni after the actor's death in 1996. We watched a guy propose to his girlfriend in front of the fountain. The place is crawling with lovers. Part of the fountain is replicated at the Italy Pavilion at Epcot in Disney World.

Speaking of Disney... Izzy feels that most of the people visiting the sites in Italy are only there to check it off their vacation list - "Check, got that photo. Check, got me in front of that famous thing. Check, here's me with Cinderella. Check, here's me with the Venus de Milo," and that most people have no idea what they are even looking at let alone the level of artistry in what they are witnessing. She was so disappointed in the amount of garbage and trash that was strewn around the fountain; the level of disrespect, the lack of reverence - it made her cry. Sooooooo, being the sometimes smart mother that I can be...

I woke Izzy up early before we left for our Rome tour. The fountain was completely abandoned. Not a soul in site except security. The entire area had been cleaned up and was awaiting the next disrespectful crowd, but for a few moments we had it to ourselves and it was lovely. We took photos and just sat and wondered at the awesomeness that is the Trevi Fountain. What a special memory with a supremely special girl.

Rome In A Day - Yowza!!!

July 21, 2010 - Rome Walking Tour

I arranged for a personal walking tour through Rome before we left the States, and so we got up early so we would be ready when the guide arrived at The Boutique Hotel Trevi at 9:00. We waited about 15 min. for her, so I called the company I had booked with and she was at another Trevi Hotel, so when she arrived, we were off and pretty much running through the streets of Rome. Amanda was our guides name and she was just great!!! A little "in-your-face" for Izzy, but so nice and very knowledgeable. That girl had a pace on her though!!! She relaxed after a little while and wasn't trying quite as hard and that is when we really started to like her. Amanda is American, so there was no problem understanding her. She is also a journalist, so she was well spoken and animated. She really was a wealth of information, which made our visits to the sites that much more interesting.

The tour started with a visit to several squares and fountains including the Trevi. We saw the Pantheon and other important ancient sites. We learned about St. Agnes and other martyrs and a myriad of Roman emperors including Julius Caesar. People still place flowers on his gravesite. I relearned many things about the art that had been pushed to the recesses of my aging brain, so it was fun for me to "in a way" go back to my art history classes and study once again the history of the art and architecture I was seeing - makes me want to go back to school.

Ancient Rome is just HUGE!!! We walked through the Forum and then down to the Colosseum. We learned a ton of history that I stored some where in my brain, but can't recall. The Colosseum and the things that went on there seem so barbaric, but we aren't really that different today are we??? The gladiators were just fame seekers trying to change their lives. Trying to gain favor with the people. It really is a lot like the reality TV of today. And I have no doubt that if we could televise fights to the death, that it would have the highest ratings of any show on TV. Human nature being what it is.

We broke for lunch and I had the most wonderful seafood salad. Izzy had spaghetti. I don't really keep track of food much, but this salad was divine - can't remember what Chris and Amanda had, I was too busy devouring mine. In Italy, they think Izzy's lunch and dinner choice of plain spaghetti with butter or olive oil and Parmesan cheese is completely normal.

After lunch it was on to Vatican City. Following the Vatican, we were suppose to go to a reservation at the Borghese Gallery, but our time with Amanda ran WAY long and we were unable to go. Just another thing to add to the "next time" list. Izzy was disappointed to say the least. It has been fun to watch her discover art. She has expressed thanks to me on many occasions for the great trip and also for instilling in her a love of art. She recognized many of the works and was grateful that I had taught her about them from a young age. She's talking about majoring in art history, but who knows, things change quickly at that age.

The Vatican museum is very large. We walked and walked and viewed and viewed, until at last we came to the Sistine Chapel. Kind of fun to think about it being the pope's very own chapel. He can use it whenever he wants and then things just shut down. The is no picture taking in the Sistine, but the crowds are so dense (thick and dense - take that as you wish) and everyone knows how I feel about rules, so I have to admit to sneaking in a few photos - many people were. Since there is no flash, I knew that no damage would come to the paint, so I only felt nominally guilty. Shame, shame. All of the great stories that go along with the different panels. Really fascinating stuff.

The highlight of the day for me was our final stop to see the Michelangelo Pieta. Moved me and moved me again - just breathtaking in it's beauty. Mary is sublimely beautiful and the crucified Christ is magnificent in death. I have goose bumps just recalling it. I could have examined it for hours, but our busy day did not allow for much lingering.

A cab ride home - duh - we were worn ragged. Even in our most comfortable shoes, the streets of Rome are brutally hard and uneven. We were happy to return to our hotel to rinse the dust off ourselves and to put our feet up and rest before dinner.

Izzy went directly to the room after dinner, but Chris and I enjoyed a gelato and sat on a bench outside our hotel just enjoying being off our feet and people watching. The people watching in Rome is as fun as the art watching in Rome.

Its off to Milan early tomorrow morning. We're hoping to get out to Soffieria di Carlini to see the hand blown Christmas ornaments that both Chris and I collect. We have no idea how to get there, but it is in a little town outside of Milan and we will have an adventure trying to find it.

What a delicious trip to spend with my dear friend and my baby girl. I have memories to last a lifetime.

I will definitely return to Rome

Roma, Roma, Roma

July 20, 2010 - Roma

The train ride from Florence to Rome took us about an hour and a half. We decided that we didn't have time to squeeze in Pompeii, but we'll be back. The next trip to Italy will be in the south and we can include Pompeii then. I'm disappointed, but it is already such a fast and furious trip - just touching the tip of the iceberg this time around.

The scenery from Florence to Rome was beautiful. The countryside is just lovely. Think "Under The Tuscan Sun." Villas dot the hillsides and there are crops growing everywhere. When I come back next time, I am going to take a scooter tour through Tuscany.

We took a cab from the termini to our hotel. Our hotel was right on the square where the Trevi Fountain is, so the cabby had to drop us off outside the square. We had a little bit of a problem finding our hotel and it was tricky trying to maneuver our suitcases over the stone roads and through raging crowds. The fountain is a very popular tourist site. Once we found the hotel, it seemed pretty straight forward. It was right around the corner from the fountain - GREAT PEOPLE WATCHING!!!

The hotel room was substandard. After the delightful places we had already stayed, it was dirty, drab and SMALL. The extra bed they put in our room looked like it was made for a small child and we broke it when we sat on it. The front desk staff was very nice. They put us in a new room that was cleaner and a bit larger and the beds could actually accommodate adults. After our check-in frustration though, everything went smooth and we enjoyed our stay at the hotel. Although the staff were delightful and the location was fun, I would choose a different place to stay if I were to return.

After we unpacked and rested for a bit, we went out exploring. We checked out the Trevi Fountain, but the crowds were so large that it was hard to see and was so unenjoyable, that we left and headed for the Spanish Steps. I ran to the top. From there, we roamed the city near our hotel and ended the day with a gelato - YUMMY!!!

Pisa

July 19, 2010 - florence-pisa-florence

Pretty much everything in Florence is closed on Mondays, so we caught a train to Pisa to see the leaning tower. It REALLY leans!!! We purchased tickets to see all of the sites on the "Field of Miracles," which included 2 museums, the duomo, the tower and the baptistry. I LOVED Pisa!!! It was perhaps one of the hottest days so far, but there was much to see. I was happy to endure.

I continue to be in awe at the sheer quantity of really great art that we see everywhere we go!!!

Botticelli, Tintoretto, Titian, Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Pisaro, Raphael, etc. etc. etc. They were so prolific. I wonder how they did it?

We caught the wrong train back to Florence, and the one hour train ride turned out to be three, because we made every stop along the way. We missed out on some shopping due to our mistake, but I thought it was very interesting to see some of the local flavor and smaller villages.

Rome in the morning. Every city has had it's own flavor. I'm sure rome will be different too.

Florence Thy Name Is Beauty!!!

July 18, 2010 - Florence

Went to the Accademia in the morning - they were happy to take our reservations from the night before, just charged us a little to rebook. We were happy to pay whatever, just to avoid the hellaciously long line outside in the heat.

All of the art at the Accademia was exceptionally beautiful, but the highlight was certainly DAVID. Izzy and I sat for quite some time just taking it all in. I had to view it from every single angle to get the full scope of the genius. I was overwhelmed and wept at the terrific beauty and majesty. What an utter delight to see up close a work of art that has captured my imagination since I was a small girl. Only Michelangelo was able to bring life to a piece of marble that others had failed with. After we viewed the rest of the museum, we had to return to view DAVID one last time. Izzy and I snuggled and marveled at his extreme beauty and size.

The Duomo was exquisite, but we were unable to climb the steps, because it is closed on Sundays. The interior was gorgeous though!!! The Catholics love them some expensive churches.

The baptistry was a little more austere, but still lovely. The mosaics on the floors were stunning!

The Uffizi was next. We just kept plugging along even though we were already so tired. There aren't any brilliant or original words to describe the beauty that we were able to see. The highlights of the Uffizi were The Birth of Venus and a Rembrandt self portrait. They had an additional Caravaggio exhibit, and it was spectacular!!! His use of light is exquisite. It is the 400 year anniversary since Carivaggio's death, and the Italians love to memorialize their famous folk. They believe that everything good that ever happened to the world, happened in Italia. They are a very proud people. I LOVE it!

11 straight hours on our feet with a short stop for lunch. We are so grateful when the day ends and we are able to rest our feet, but we are enjoying every minute.

On our way to Firenze

July 17, 2010 - Venezia - Florence

We tried to see the St. Mark's Basilica before we left for Florence, but the lines were sooooooo

long. This is not the optimal time to visit Italy I fear, but since Izzy's GS event was happening now, it seemed like the best option.

We didn't get on the train to Florence that we wanted, so we had some time to kill. It was excessively hot, so we were looking for some place air conditioned to have a bite and wait, and I think we picked the single most expensive restaurant in Venice. We weren't even paying attention to cost - just ordered what sounded good, and then we got the check. In retrospect it is humorous, but at the time YIKES!!! What a mistake. A 98 EUR lunch, which is approximately 126 USD. Seems excessive for lunch - right? Probably the most expensive meal we will eat on our trip and it wasn't even that great.

We got on a train to Florence without incident, and got there in the early evening, but because we were planning to leave earlier, and couldn't get a train, we missed our reservation to the Accademia. I hope they will accept our reservation in the morning. We'll go early and see.

Our hotel is right on the Arno river between the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi. It is a very nice location and a very nice hotel. We are pretty close to all of the major sites, and very close to tons of shopping. The weather is a little milder than Venice, so Izzy is a happy camper - we all are.

Our first dinner in Florence was super yummy!!! Izzy had spaghetti as usual and says it is her favorite so far. I had a tuna salad - delicious!!!

We did some shopping and I purchased a few things. Florence is more fashion conscious than Venice. There are tons of super great shops. Bought some shoes of course. Lovely leather in Florence.

We stopped for a lemon granita and while seated at the little cafe eating it, the proprietress opened a 2 liter bottle of Coke and it exploded, sending Coke everywhere - including on us.

We walked back from there, had showers and went to bed - dog tired every night.

Ciao Venezia!!!

July 16th - Venezia

I will not be disappointed to leave Venice. It was something to see, and I'm glad I did, but I am ready to move on to Florence, where there will be so much to see. I will more than likely return to Venice some day - when the weather is milder, and walking the streets will be more comfortable, but for now, it is enough.

The highlight of Venice for me was the Peggy Guggenheim Museum. It has the finest collection of contemporary art. We got lost trying to find it. When you ask an Italian for directions, everything is always "just to the right," or "just to the left." One man tried to tell us where the museum was and then finally just threw up his hands and walked us over there.

Another hot day, but no matter how hot it is, we know we can always find cool refuge in a museum.

Hot Gondolier!!!

July 15, 2010 - Venezia

We took a gondola ride in the early evening. It was lovely. Izzy and I had a very nice time, but Chris was very uncomfortable, and because of that, the ride she had been so looking forward to, turned out to be disappointing for her. We felt so badly for her.

Our gondolier was extremely attractive and fit, which made Izzy happy since she promised her friend Karah, that she would bring back a photo of a hot gondolier.

The profession of gondolier is controlled by a guild, which issues a limited number of licenses granted after periods of training and apprenticeship, and a major comprehensive exam which tests knowledge of Venetian history and landmarks, foreign language skills, and practical skills in handling the Gondola typically necessary in the tight spaces of Venetian canals.

Venezia

July 15th, 2010

Left Berne. I am sure it is a fascinating city when you have time to explore it and it is not so damn hot!!! A woman at a paticularly un air conditioned shop, told me that it is usually 15 degrees cooler in CH and no one has air conditioning, so we were there for the freakish hot spell and we were glad to leave.

The train to Venice was easy peasy. Had to switch in Brig, but that was easy too. The Swiss train system is a thing of beauty. Not so in Italy, but it is fun to discover the differences in countries and cultures. Everything in CH is well labeled and in English, but the Italians are not that concerned with the need of international travelers. When we got to Venice and stepped off the train, a wave of heat and humidity unknown by us until then, hit us like a tsunami. Berne seamed like a picnic comparitively. We had no idea how to get to our hotel and did not quite understand the vaperetto system yet, so we took a water taxi which was SOOOOO much fun!!!

The Grand Canal is quite breathtaking! The wind cooled us down as we motored passed water front villas and museums and breathtaking architecture. The taxi dropped us right at the dock of our hotel, and we were there!!! Chris met us in the lobby and we immediately went to tour the Doges Palace and to view the Duomo.

The Doges Palace was interesting. I love to imagine how people lived in different times, and then be grateful for all of the modern blessings we enjoy. Especially in the US. I am awed at the immensity (sp?) of some of the works of art. It amazes me to think of the talent of the masters.

The Bridge of Sighs was fun to walk across - it was over the same canal that our hotel was on. Another case of finally being able to see something in person that I had here to for seen only in pictures. Sad to think of prisoners walking across to the prison. The prison cells were small and damp, and in the summer must have been stifling. I'm sure no matter what crime they committed, that after a short time in the cells - if they didn't die first, they deserved to be let free. It was awful!!!

I have read about Venice many, many times, but until you start walking around and realize "Hey there are no cars here" you do not have a concept of the canal system. It was very charming. All the little alley ways and bridges are fun to traverse, although unless you have a map, you are screwed and even with the map it is easy to get lost.

We walked and walked and walked like the little pioneer children who gathered berries for food. My Mormon friends will understand the reference. I'm pretty sure that the pioneer children were never as hot as we were in Venice though. High 90s and 5 billion percent humidity. YIKES!!!

We ate food at a cute little place after getting lost and going round and round and back and forth and finally finding the place just down the street. I'm pretty sure we passed it many times.

Venice was a crazy busy place - people everywhere, moving and standing. It seemed to undulate like the water that surrounds it and runs through it's canals. The canal system is fascinating and charming. Watching the gondoliers navigate through the myriad of water craft, is fun. Mostly we just roamed the streets looking for interesting places to see. There are sooooooo many shops. You could spend your entire time there just shopping if that is what you desired.

Our first day in Venice was hot and tiring, but we enjoyed our time together, and look forward to the rest of our time.

Berne, CH

Wed. July - 14

We left the Chalet today. Izzy is glad to be done with the mountains - too much hiking!!!

Got to Berne and had trouble checking into the hotel. our reservation had been canceled for some reason, but they had a room for us, and that was good.

Berne was FREAKING hot and we got lost on our way to the botanical gardens, so pretty much we were just drenched in sweat and hating life. We did however have a great time with the awesome Flowers fandamly!!! We never did connect with Jessica and Kate in Berne - they had fun riding around on bikes though. After the not-so-pretty gardens, we made a bee line for the Kuntz Museum where we saw the most incredible contemporary art collection. We watched a bizarre film/performance art/animation thingy that was so far out, none of us were sure what it was about, but it did make us think and we are pretty sure it had something to do with how stupid the human race is.

No air in the hotel - BLAH!!!! had to get a fan from the front desk - happy to get the hell out of Berne and on our way to Venice.

Adventure Park

Tuesday July, 13th

Today we went to the Adventure Park. It has a series of zip lines and high ropes courses - rock climbing and repelling. It was a long, hot hike up there, but WOW!!! was it worth it!!! We all zip lined several times and then some of us repelled off of a high bridge while the others zip lined more. After we all went over the bridge, I dashed back to the top so I could jump off the bridge. That was such a rush!!! Standing on the platform after climbing over the bridge railing was SUPER SCARY, but the hardest part was of course, stepping ( or jumping in my case ) off of the platform. What a rush!!! Izzy too loads of photos and someone shot video, so we will post those when we can.
Fun facing fears and pushing to do hard and scary things. Scaling the rock face was the scariest thing for me. Putting my life in the hands of a 15 year old was hard for me, but what a thrill to scale an actual vertical wall - real mountain wall with only natural hand and foot holds - no man made handles to grasp, you had to find your own. It was harder than I thought it would be. We repelled down, and did it again. What a FUN, FUN day!!!

Beauty

monday, july 12th

i'm thinking of my mother today as i tromp through the mountains - she loved to hike and walk to the beauty of God's creations - to the beauty, and through the beauty, and right in the middle of beauty. Beauty from afar, and beauty in her face - she taught me about beauty, and more importantly, taught me to love beauty. much to her chagrin, she is now mostly passed her walking and hiking days, but inside, she is still young and able - the desire to touch beauty is still there, and so i dedicate today, to my dear mother, lover and teacher of beauty.



jenn

Sunday - our free day

We had a weird free day. Because it was Sunday, most things were closed. I'm not sure why the program gives us Sunday for our free day - the girls were all disappointed that we weren't able to shop. We did go to a Medieval castle in Thun - many steps up - EXHAUSTING!!! I thought it was very interesting, but it was lost on Izzy. The view from the 4 towers was quite beautiful. I'm glad I live in modern times though - what a cold, savage and stinky way to live. We are so blessed to live when we do.

After the castle, we wandered the town and did some window shopping. We still had plenty of day left, so we took the train to Brienz (charming little town) and went to the Ballenberg Living History Museum. I could have spent days there, but we only had a couple of hours, so we dashed through only a small portion. It fascinates me to see how people from other places and in other time periods lived. We saw cheese making, ribbon making, wood carving, textiles, farm life, etc. but can you guess what i enjoyed the most??? Of course it was the clothing - LOVED IT!!!

Switzerland is VERY, VERY, VERY expensive. Even with a weak franc, things are super expensive. About $20 USD for a burger. I don't eat burgers, and all of our food was provided through the chalet, but WOW!!! Europeans must love to come to the states for their vacations.

After the museum, we did some shopping at the gift store. I got a charming nativity to add to my collection. The train ride back was beautiful as always through the mountain valleys, and we were so pooped out after a long day of walking, we took a taxi back up to the chalet, which is a 20 minute walk up the steepest damn hills - worse than Stillwater.

More tomorrow - peace and love

jenn & izzy

Finally - we are connected!!! Yippee!!!

My iphone won't let me write posts for some stupid reason that I don't understand, so I have to wait until I can use a computer. izzy and I were lucky enough to score free wi-fi at our hotel tonight, so we are happy, but also frantically trying to catch up with all things internet related.

INTERNET TROUBLES AT THE CHALET

The internet has been down at the chalet and we have been very frustrated. There has been much to share, so we are bummed that we could not share it with you while it was happening. We will do our best to catch you up.

Niesen and Oberhofen Castle

We had another fun day!!! We took a funicular to the top of Niesen and had a fantastic panoramic view of all the mountain peeks and valleys. It was quite awesome. There were tons of parasailers and it was just spectacular to see them all soaring in the sky all at once!!! I ate macaroni and cheese at a little cafe at the top of the mountain and it was delicious. Izzy had applesauce and pommes frites (french fries). WE are having a fantastic time!!! The weather is heating up and hiking is a bear, but the scenery makes up for it for me ~ yoù will have to ask Izzy how she is liking it.

Busy, busy, busy, no time to blog

No time for blogging!!! Sorry to those of you who have wanted to follow us on our travels, but they have us so busy at Our Chalet, and there are limited computers. Only 3 for 92 girls and their leaders.

I am having a great time - not sure about Izzy. There is far more hiking than she anticipated.

Izzy has been sick and we have struggled with that, but she was feeling better today, and I am so proud of her participation. She made it on foot to our destination, and we had great fun swimming in the glacier lake after a tough 1-1/2 hr. hike up the mountain and a gondola ride to the lake. When we have a place where we can post photos, their will be many for you to view.

Switzerland is just gorgeous!!! We have hiked every day. The Girl Scout events have been fun - at least I think so. Isabelle is a harsh critic, so I'm sure she has some complaints. It is so fun for me though to be alone with her and getting to know her better and watch her conquer some of her fears. Yesterday we went repelling. First a 10 meter drop (30 feet) and then a 25 meter drop (75 feet). Izzy did it even though she was sick - she was a trooper.

It is Suisse Night tonight at Our Chalet. We'll learn about Switzerland and eat fondue and learn Swiss songs, etc. We are well worn out and should sleep like babies tonight. It took us a few days to work out the sleep thing, but I think we have it conquered now.

Later - Jenn

I Wish Humans Could Eat There Young

Switzerland is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been and what am I doing??? Not a darn thing. Izzy has been sick for two days and I have been trapped. The rest of the Girl Scouts are out enjoying the beautiful scenery and I am here on the computer. POOP!!!

Our Chalet

After many many many many hours on planes, trains and buses, we have reached Our Chalet. The room we are staying in isn't ready for us yet, so we are waiting and waiting and waiting. We are dead on our feet and want to sleep and brush our teeth.

Switzerland is b.e.a.utiful. But we feel slightly like ditzy Americans. The only thing mom can say is she thinks the trains were very efficient. Blah - she needs better thoughts. It is only about 75* here.

A small note from Izzy

I hate packing but my least favorite thing about it is this:

'What books am I going to bring?'

Can't I bring them all? How am I supposed to choose? IT'S TOO HARD!

hee hee

Just needed to share my frustrations

Pre-Trip

Benvenuto! This is our travel blog. We made it so you could enjoy our trip with us. And... if you don't wish to enjoy our trip with us then stay the hell out of our blog!!!

We will be leaving Monday morning for Switzerland. It will take us approx. 8 hours to get there from Atlanta, where we lay over for a couple hours before we catch our flight to Zurich. We will be in CH for a week with the Girl Scouts. From there we travel to Venice, where we will meet up with our friend Chris Vicha. We then travel to Florence, Pisa, Naples (Pompeii), Rome, Milan, and we end our trip in Paris! We will be gone 22 days.

It's 2 days before we leave and we have yet to pack anything. :P We hate packing. Nay, we despise packing. We have spent 2 hours making this blog and procrastinating even more.

Mom is more nervous than excited, and I think she is on crack. Sure, it's ok to be a little nervous, but the fact that she is letting it cloud her excitement, is just sad. I am SUPER DUPER excited but am not so keen on all the walking and the heat and the weird food and the stinky people on the train. But other than that this will be the trip of a life time.