I love Matt’s droll “Is this part of your backpack or your ring?” I can hear him saying that and making a little smile and it makes me laugh. It sounds like an amazing trip.
I’ve only been once but love Florence, although can’t think of anything I learned. Just gawked appreciatively at a lot of art and other beauty. Went to all the big tourist spots.
The thing about grafting olive trees to protect the whole tree was especially interesting! I wonder if they try to harvest the two kinds of olives separately or what...
Also didn’t realize how aggressive grape vines were. We have a long back patio and we need something to edge it. I remember years ago seeing a house with grape vines along the back patio, and they covered a pergola and provided nice shade, and the grapes hung down so you could pick yourself a snack in tbe shade.
But now I’m wondering if those roots might mess up stuff (the sprinkler system, the patio itself...) hm!
As always... lots to think about! I enjoyed hearing about your trip! :)
PS That aria is on a TV commercial right now isn’t it? I can’t think of for what. Maybe a car.
OTR with 36 students now, so not much time to comment, but wanted to add that I love Florence--however the central part of it, within the old Roman Empire-era grid, is too cleaned-up and tourist-focused for me. Its pristine-ness made me miss the dirty vitality of Rome. Many wondrous and famous must-see things there in that central district, but my greatest experiences in Florence were found on walks beyond that zone, out into the winding medieval road network that meandered to the old city's edges and sometimes crossed the river. So maybe the life-lesson is: wander, and give yourself lots of time in a place like Florence.
What a wonderful message! And I agree: on this trip we spent very little time in the main tourist areas. We spent most of the time in the Oltrarno or even further out. And of course I endorse the advice to wander! Thank you for this comment!
I love Matt’s droll “Is this part of your backpack or your ring?” I can hear him saying that and making a little smile and it makes me laugh. It sounds like an amazing trip.
Thanks! He was so happy he found the ring for me!
The picture with the hot air balloons is so beautiful!
I was so excited when I looked up and saw them!
I’ve only been once but love Florence, although can’t think of anything I learned. Just gawked appreciatively at a lot of art and other beauty. Went to all the big tourist spots.
The thing about grafting olive trees to protect the whole tree was especially interesting! I wonder if they try to harvest the two kinds of olives separately or what...
Also didn’t realize how aggressive grape vines were. We have a long back patio and we need something to edge it. I remember years ago seeing a house with grape vines along the back patio, and they covered a pergola and provided nice shade, and the grapes hung down so you could pick yourself a snack in tbe shade.
But now I’m wondering if those roots might mess up stuff (the sprinkler system, the patio itself...) hm!
As always... lots to think about! I enjoyed hearing about your trip! :)
PS That aria is on a TV commercial right now isn’t it? I can’t think of for what. Maybe a car.
Great comment! And I am sure that aria is being used in advertising all the time. There’s a reason it’s so popular!
Well... I just heard the ad during college football 🏈 and went running into the room to see what it was for.
Velveeta!
😂🤣😂🤣
😂
OTR with 36 students now, so not much time to comment, but wanted to add that I love Florence--however the central part of it, within the old Roman Empire-era grid, is too cleaned-up and tourist-focused for me. Its pristine-ness made me miss the dirty vitality of Rome. Many wondrous and famous must-see things there in that central district, but my greatest experiences in Florence were found on walks beyond that zone, out into the winding medieval road network that meandered to the old city's edges and sometimes crossed the river. So maybe the life-lesson is: wander, and give yourself lots of time in a place like Florence.
What a wonderful message! And I agree: on this trip we spent very little time in the main tourist areas. We spent most of the time in the Oltrarno or even further out. And of course I endorse the advice to wander! Thank you for this comment!
“O mio babbino caro” --What a way to start the day.
Yes! I don’t care that the aria is overplayed. It is stunning!