The Beauty of the Sun in Firenze!

I don't know if it is different, but something about the sun has been majestic in Florence this summer. Perhaps it is the unseasonably cool weather.  It ain't cold, but the weather really has been lovely and that suffocating, humid heat where every part of you drips sweat has not been as present as usual.

I remember in 2007 whenI came for the summer it was so hot.  Alex did not have an AC and we were DYING.  His uncle generously offered to buy us a portable unit, so we drove out to the Gigli shopping center to buy one.  We get it home, take it out of the box and get ready.  Directions: must let sit for 24 hours before use.  I cried.  I cried.  I CRIED!  It was so hot and all I could imagine was the cool relief that would come from that machine.  It was eventually up and running and we survived.  

But this summer is different...so far.  There is a breeze and the nights are cool and refreshing.  It has been perfect for strolls and exploration.

I mentioned the sun.  I don't know what it is or if it has always been there, but the way it bounces off everything is glorious.  Almost like it is reflecting sparkle and glory off the buildings.  

There is nothing more I love to do in Florence than visit Piazalle Michelangelo just above the city, south-east of the center.  It is a great workout hiking up there and once you arrive, you are set for 20 minutes...2 hours or all day!  If you walk up the hill a tiny, you will find the church of San Miniato.  This is my favorite church in Florence.  We did not make it the other night, but I will return and you must go at sunset.  The church is dark inside, so as the sun sets and you sit inside, it is dark like a tomb, but the sun peeks through the doors and stained glass window.  It is magic.  Alex and I ventured up there the other night after his long day at work and the sunset was unreal.  People strolled, enjoying cold water, cocktails and more.  A set of stairs was filled with young people listening to music and enjoying their bottles of wine poured into tiny plastic cups.  It was as if we were in a pocket of harmony where everyone was sun kissed and in love with life. 

I am hiding my bag from the pharmacy, not picking a wedgie

Jumping for Joy!

Half way there......

Il Duoma: Santa Maria del Fiore

Ponte Vecchio

I promise Alex is not mad

Give a girl some wind and the sky is the limit #Boticellibabe

Imagining I am Michelangelo in the old days

 They even have a cute little bar with tables.  Overpriced I am sure, but absolutely worth the view it offers of the entire city of Florence.

Having spent a lot of time in Florence, I have seen a lot: the churches, the museums and eaten in a lot of places.  And now, I find myself just being.  I don't feel a need to pack it all in.  I can enjoy the simplicity of dinner-in and strolling the streets with no destination in mind.  I can take the day to do laundry or simply sit and read.  I find joy in the smaller things, the parts that Italians may not take notice of on any normal day.   Just being here with Alex and blending in feels perfect for me in this moment and I am feeling the peace and the sun on my face!

Ciao Amori,

ZM