The last journey on our Mini Spring Break Trip #1 was Firenze, more globally known as Florence. I had been here once on a work trip back in November and they had arranged for a night tour of the main touristy sections so I had a bit of knowledge about Florence. I would highly recommend the night tour as everything looked even more magnificent lit up, not that it was disappointing during the day mind you.
One thing that is different about living in Europe and traveling, in my opinion, is that you are able to explore differently than if you were on a scheduled tour. We have our own vehicle and can do as we please, when we please. However, we also have our own vehicle and must navigate directions and parking - two details that are not always fun! We made it though to a parking garage in a seemingly safe area and then set about on our journey to the attractions. The arch below was our landmark beacon to know when we were close to the parking area. I have absolutely no idea if it has a name or is famous. While I appreciate all that history can teach us, I am sadly not much of a history buff...I know, I know, you are thinking Europe is ruined on someone like me, but I promise I am appreciating it!
I tried to get a good picture of my traveling companions. I honestly cannot tell you how in awe of them I am. They walk and walk and walk, mostly without complaining;). They are taking it all in, going with the flow, and enjoying what Europe has to offer. I am one proud mom. Oh yes, that handsome man there, he is the sane to my crazy - enough said.
Fortunately, Cadin and Cambria are so easy going still that they allow me to take their picture in front of a TWINS' Caffe! Too cute...yes, corny I know, but look(!), our twins in front of the TWINS' Caffe. OK, I shall stop now.
This Dali' sculpture was right outside the Accademia - which is where the real statue of David is kept inside. So far, we have opted NOT to go into any of the museums and this could be one of the reasons that the kids have remained happy travelers thus far. We still have more than 2 years so that could change, perhaps when we have visitors - hint, hint!
The first sight of Duomo Square, which is definitely more exquisite at night. It was also very crowded with lots of tour groups.
Perhaps my best picture of this trip, my gorgeous Cambria exploring her new love of photography.
The cherubs in Duomo Square.
We continued to explore and guess what we happened upon??!! Oh yes, a little market in a piazza that was focused on wine, cheese, lovely sauces, and olive oil. The heavens opened and sang...:) As you can see, some of us were more into this little detour than others.
However, her disposition had improved as she was belly up to the tasting table...and no, we did not let her taste the fermented grapes. I did taste grappa for the first time though - ewwww!!!! This man had a lovely brochure for his agriturismo that is a working B&B in addition to a winery. I hope to get a visit there in our time here. Love this kind of thing.
After prying me away from purchasing more pesto and wine (darned backpack only holds so much), we made our way to another shopping plaza, this one fairly famous for its bronze wild boar. The Loggia del Mercato Nuovo is a little structure that has been around since 1551 and was designed to be a refined place for merchants to sell their goods. This one is housed with lots of lovely leather products as well as the famous boar which is said to provide you with great likeliness of returning to Florence if you rub its snout!
Ah, more nudity. This whole open area in the next few pictures is the Piazza della Signoria and it is sort of a big open area with lots of incredible sculptures and structures. This replica of David is outside the former ruling Medici's home and is the Palazzo Vecchio. Just a few of our closest friends checking out the place too.
I love capturing them when they are focused. Grandma Stonebraker (Grandma Francie, also known by one of my cousins as Grandma Flyswatter...love family names!) was the kind provider of these cameras for Christmas and the kids have had a ball capturing their own memories of our travels. I will have to do separate posts capturing their pictures.
Here the cherubs are along the Arno River and the next standing at the end of the Ponte Vecchio, a famous bridge that houses about 2 million pieces of jewelry in a very small amount of square footage.
Sullivan is apparently sending kisses your way and Cambria is modeling the new Firenze bag. The ladies have started collecting bags of all shapes and sizes that document where we have traveled. They are having a grand time seeking and selecting. I am feeling bad for Cadin in not getting much, but he is holding out for something more grand I believe.
All of this trekking led to a hungry and tired crew, so we were on the lookout for an off-the-beaten-path restaurant. We happened upon this incredibly cool place that was underground. The architecture was awesome and the atmosphere just what we were looking for - not mobbed by tourists. The food was good and the company even better.
Two of the nicest people in the world, right there. I am so lucky they are my family! Look at the background, such a neat little place.
Post-meal, we were ready to get back in the monster van and head back to Naples. Until next time...when I will bring you our Mini Spring Break Trip #2 to Sicily!
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