What a day I tell you!
We were up again at the crack of dawn, hauling our things down precarious stairs, and rattled all of Cortona with Aviva's suitcase on wheels (yes large cobble stones are lovely but do create room to make a racket at 0600).
We took our trains and nearly went to Rome and nearly took the wrong #7 but it certainly pays to read and ask questions.
The great loss for us today was our packed lunch---we planned ahead and Aviva made a wonderful pasta dish with peppers to feed us on our long journey here. We even had cut up fruit and looked forward to a thick cake that we called 'granola'. Well, we fell asleep and heard the fuzzy speaker announce 'Firenze'...but the stop came up a bit earlier than expected so we weren't prepared---so we jumped up and snatched our things (most of them) and forgot our loot on the seat!
Turns out Firenze has 2 stops and we were very lucky to catch another train to bring us to the main train on time! So no complaining from us.
Well the shower is free now and it's 1720 and this means we might eat at a normal hour, then again maybe not, it's pretty mindnumbing to arrive in a new country and take in the scenery---you should see the ALPS---they're here towering over the city's buildings---as if saying 'Hello down there...' yes yes yes I obviously need food.
Off we go----Dd
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
A Medieval Festival...Aug 29th 09
Aviva and I were very inspired when we were in Assisi a couple of days ago. There stood a young woman in a rich dark velvet gown promoting a Medieval Festival in a nearby town for the upcoming weekend. Well we couldn't resist taking a brochure. The Festival boasted events featuring music with instruments of that era, dancing, battles, falconery (I think this is what we'd call it---don't know it's not in my repertoire of daily activities!) and topped off with a medieval feast. It sounded so good that we went down to see Laura, our travel agent, and rented a car for a day's excursion.
Our adventure began at 1030 yesterday morning when I was given the keys to a miniature Ford KA (Doug your MINI is large next to this thing). We made sure to ask for a GPS device (a fantastic contraption that tells you where to go in lovely Italian language and shows you the way with easy to follow arrows---LOVE it!). Thank goodness I like standard because that's what we received. AND---we finally had music!
With the air condition on, music blarring, water close at hand, GPS turned on and working, we were set!
The Italians love their upbeat techno music (which features many tunes that sound like bar music mixed with the 80's---frankly we are loving it). ANyways, there's always some rich voice that claims 'DJ Rock---One Station for One Nation'. Besides just when you finally lock in to a really good song you get these sharp intrusions from other stations. If you're lucky you get your music back and if you're not not you get Ricko Suaveyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy milking his song for all it's worth (we usually change the station).
So---we arrived after an hour and a half drive to the top of a little hill town called, Gualdo Tadino about some 40km from Assisi. Much of the town is in the middle of reparation and as we arrived early, there was not much going on.
Well, the Medieval Festival was interesting. When we went for coffee during our down time before the big event and sat outside along the main street. Our waitress told us that at 2pm these seats would be taken inside for safety. Apparently monkeys were going to be pushing a cart and it could be dangerous. Monkeys! Imagine our surprise and curiousity. I didn't even know the medieval times bothered with these animals---but what do I know! So the crowds began to form and the usual gates to keep people safe went up. Next came the officials. And soon men in colored t-shirt formed groups that we could identify as teams for this Monkey event. Well the 'monkeys' turned out to be 'donkeys'. English is a funny language! So we took many pictures of this crowd roaring activity. The people literally run down the street to get to a better location for the best view of these races. After this, there was waiting and more waiting in the square. People sit and mingle and eat and wait. Well we drifted off here and there and found 2 chairs. So we sat and what came next was (in my opinion and not speaking for Aviva) better than the racing donkeys, an Italian wedding! Everyone attending this wedding looked like a million bucks. Then women mostly wore black dresses and wore amazing perilous heels, the men were fashioned with tailor cut suits in black, navy blue, and pin stripe, topped off with polished leather shoes. The bride arrived in a racy Jaguar and dazzled us with an emerald and gold and sparlkling 1930's dress. She was radiant! Aviva and I sat there for a good half hour enjoying watching and listening to the mingling, the kissing of cheeks paired with warm accolades, and the boistrous chatter. In fact the wedding took over the main street and the festival was put on hold due to the large number of people in the street.
Later on there was a small battle, young women dancing in the square, and yes, music.
All in all it was a good day and we chose to leave early because we suddenly felt tired (and we could hear the call of Snoopy from COrtona---beconing us to try another flavor of icecream!).
Oh it felt so good to come home, to know where you're going and to sit in a place that you know. We tried new flavors again---well Aviva is very fond of cookies so that's always one of them and who can blame her, the cookie chunks are HUGE and delicious.
Today we may go to Assisi again but we have to pack tonight and go to bed early.
We leave for Innsbruck via train at 0700 to arrive there around 4:30pmish.
I must say, Cortona has been a gem of a place and I will be a bit sad to say Ciao!
Ok---some picures would be nice eh? Let me give it a try.
Our adventure began at 1030 yesterday morning when I was given the keys to a miniature Ford KA (Doug your MINI is large next to this thing). We made sure to ask for a GPS device (a fantastic contraption that tells you where to go in lovely Italian language and shows you the way with easy to follow arrows---LOVE it!). Thank goodness I like standard because that's what we received. AND---we finally had music!
With the air condition on, music blarring, water close at hand, GPS turned on and working, we were set!
The Italians love their upbeat techno music (which features many tunes that sound like bar music mixed with the 80's---frankly we are loving it). ANyways, there's always some rich voice that claims 'DJ Rock---One Station for One Nation'. Besides just when you finally lock in to a really good song you get these sharp intrusions from other stations. If you're lucky you get your music back and if you're not not you get Ricko Suaveyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy milking his song for all it's worth (we usually change the station).
So---we arrived after an hour and a half drive to the top of a little hill town called, Gualdo Tadino about some 40km from Assisi. Much of the town is in the middle of reparation and as we arrived early, there was not much going on.
Well, the Medieval Festival was interesting. When we went for coffee during our down time before the big event and sat outside along the main street. Our waitress told us that at 2pm these seats would be taken inside for safety. Apparently monkeys were going to be pushing a cart and it could be dangerous. Monkeys! Imagine our surprise and curiousity. I didn't even know the medieval times bothered with these animals---but what do I know! So the crowds began to form and the usual gates to keep people safe went up. Next came the officials. And soon men in colored t-shirt formed groups that we could identify as teams for this Monkey event. Well the 'monkeys' turned out to be 'donkeys'. English is a funny language! So we took many pictures of this crowd roaring activity. The people literally run down the street to get to a better location for the best view of these races. After this, there was waiting and more waiting in the square. People sit and mingle and eat and wait. Well we drifted off here and there and found 2 chairs. So we sat and what came next was (in my opinion and not speaking for Aviva) better than the racing donkeys, an Italian wedding! Everyone attending this wedding looked like a million bucks. Then women mostly wore black dresses and wore amazing perilous heels, the men were fashioned with tailor cut suits in black, navy blue, and pin stripe, topped off with polished leather shoes. The bride arrived in a racy Jaguar and dazzled us with an emerald and gold and sparlkling 1930's dress. She was radiant! Aviva and I sat there for a good half hour enjoying watching and listening to the mingling, the kissing of cheeks paired with warm accolades, and the boistrous chatter. In fact the wedding took over the main street and the festival was put on hold due to the large number of people in the street.
Later on there was a small battle, young women dancing in the square, and yes, music.
All in all it was a good day and we chose to leave early because we suddenly felt tired (and we could hear the call of Snoopy from COrtona---beconing us to try another flavor of icecream!).
Oh it felt so good to come home, to know where you're going and to sit in a place that you know. We tried new flavors again---well Aviva is very fond of cookies so that's always one of them and who can blame her, the cookie chunks are HUGE and delicious.
Today we may go to Assisi again but we have to pack tonight and go to bed early.
We leave for Innsbruck via train at 0700 to arrive there around 4:30pmish.
I must say, Cortona has been a gem of a place and I will be a bit sad to say Ciao!
Ok---some picures would be nice eh? Let me give it a try.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Yahooooo we are connected!!!!
Wow! You wouldn't believe how tracking down an internet connection or using a telephone can turn into an event around here.
Aviva and I got up early yesterday to use the phone and an hour later Aviva was actually speaking to Rumon and I was crying in the booth next to her. How can punching a few numbers be so utterly frustrating? Well it can. After two coffees, one well made cappucino and one strong americano, we felt much relief. As well, trrying to use the computers out here is like wishing on a star---maybe it'll work---ummmmm probably not.
However! This morning Aviva and I got up at the crack of dawn---if the singing panini maker isn't waking us up with song, then we can count on Cortona's various bells tolling to do the trick. We dressed in hurry and hoofed our way up the street (you see the Americans told us of the secret internet channel---you have to sit in one spot as well there happens to be chairs here---the catch? It's a fancy restaurant and you need to be out of sight before 11am). Here we are, strong americanos in hand, and computers out and in use---it's a good way to start the day.
So! We love Cortona ofcoarse as it is beautiful and full of amazing things to see. The other night we went out for dinner (late again) and we decided to indulge in one of our favorite treats---Ice cream at Snoopy's. YOU DON"T UNDERSTAND---we DON"t have icecream like that in Canada! Naturally we need to eat their lovely products often in order to taste the variety of flavors available to us in such a short time. One day we hit the joint twice! The owners may start addressingus by name soon. We discovered that the Italians are nuts for Nutella---it's everywhere and in many things---and in the ice cream too! Back to our dinner and dessert plans. We made our way up the stone laden street, past the famous clock tower (if you google Cortona and see the main piazza you will see the clock tower and the steps---this is our main area to 'live' in. We shop for fresh produce and get our many cups of coffee around the corner, sit ont the steps and people watch, and walk thru for 10 million reasons). We went to buy icecream and heard ABBA yet again AND Dancing Queen being played live! We looked at each other and laughed out loud---what luck yet again! We purchased two ice cream delights and sat down to listen to a live Italian band singing in English! They rocked us to the tunes of Queen, Abba, and various other artists. The little children danced in the square while the parents sat down to enjoy a cigarette and a drink. The various stallions came out too. Clans of young men scoping out the night trooped together. Older Ricko Suaves also made their coloned way through the crowds, looking for catches along the way. The fashion here is different. Men wear very colorful clothes, pink, yellow, green, and purple jeans are common. Loafers fashioned out of suade and colored blue and red can be seen worn by very happy men. The men also wear sweaters wrapped around their necks and shoulders (it does look very chic). And the women, gorgeous! The women love their bling! Shinny rings, shoes with trinkets, flowy dresses, and plunging neck lines are all very common. People love scent! The Europeans splash on perfume and colone to do errands and mingle (I am in heaven!).
Ummmmm what else---Aviva and I are enjoying our excursion to the pool at the end of town. Our first trip included arriving by the 'behind the scenes' way (basically everyone else arrives by car and we seem to pop out of the bushes at the back of the building. So out of nowhere we show up to a disco pumping environment! Techno at the pool---not a bad way to make a humble entrance. Well, I was after all armed wiht my Gold Bikini so I was in fact prepared for this type of pool-side attire. An outdoor pool is a fantastic thing. You get a lounge chair equipped wiht a face shield for some serious tanning. Aviva and I think that tanning is a sport here---people are brown/black around here and they really get down to business.
The other day we decided to go to Assisi and our train down the mountain was leaving in half an hour. Apparently if you take a short cut you can walk down the mountain and arrive in such time. Hey why not? Sandals, dresses, and water we started power walking down in the heat of the day! Our luck changed when a small little blue truck (may I add this truck was a mini---I mean MINI truck---probably sits ONE well) pulled over. Oh Grandpa was so happy to see us and offered us a lift. No English. No teeth. Not much understood on our side either---ha ha ha. We repeated 'treno and stazione' repeatedly and he nodded. Um, Aviva and I had to share one seat. Are we married he wanted to know, with one hand patting Aviva's knee. The answer didn't much matter, he was happy to be next to a beautiful blonde. He dropped us off and tried very hard to get a kiss goodbye, his valiant efforts refused. The bottom line, we made it to the train on time and able to get to Assisi without a hitch.
Assisi is just as beautiful as Cortona and if I can move fast this morning I can probably post some pictures. My wifi is working and hopefully my battery lasts. Wow! We are currently smelling the fumes of a little three wheeled truck putting it's way up the 90degree incline street we are sitting on---did I mention that the street is maybe (Aviva's feet wide) 13 feet wide---when the cars go by you NEED to step OUT of the way, climb up a step or get into a door way!
Okay---I need to get to some pictures!
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Momo---Yes I did try calling and I couldn't get thru (those were the tears I shed in the cubicle yesterday) and thanks to RUmon I was able to hear that my message was received by mom (the internet and phones were not working so it was just a frustrating moment to deal with and you know very well how I do when I can't do anything at all---there was no heap of clothes to fall into---ha ha ha). As this link is working I'm just going to tell you here and now that I love you and miss you and that I look forward to seeing your facebook pictures of you and Claude in Banff---the connection are weak and I can't see pictures half the time---so when I connect I'll be leaving remarks for sure.
And Claudious Maximous---I met a french couple yesterday who live in the North of Paris and claim that the NORTH must be seen. Just talking in french about vineyards, castles, and sight seeing reminded me of our soon to be visit and it made me very excited about seeing you soon!!!!!! Hug Etienne for me and know that you both are close mind---often.
Mom et Dad---Biensur que je pense a vous, que je vous aime, et que j'ai hate de vous parler.
Sarah and Jeremiahhhhhh---Your Birthdays are this week and both of you have been in our thoughts and I look forward to celebrating when we get back. Bonne Fete Sarah. Bonne Fete Jeremy.
Okay---Pictures and MAY it work!!!!!
Aviva and I got up early yesterday to use the phone and an hour later Aviva was actually speaking to Rumon and I was crying in the booth next to her. How can punching a few numbers be so utterly frustrating? Well it can. After two coffees, one well made cappucino and one strong americano, we felt much relief. As well, trrying to use the computers out here is like wishing on a star---maybe it'll work---ummmmm probably not.
However! This morning Aviva and I got up at the crack of dawn---if the singing panini maker isn't waking us up with song, then we can count on Cortona's various bells tolling to do the trick. We dressed in hurry and hoofed our way up the street (you see the Americans told us of the secret internet channel---you have to sit in one spot as well there happens to be chairs here---the catch? It's a fancy restaurant and you need to be out of sight before 11am). Here we are, strong americanos in hand, and computers out and in use---it's a good way to start the day.
So! We love Cortona ofcoarse as it is beautiful and full of amazing things to see. The other night we went out for dinner (late again) and we decided to indulge in one of our favorite treats---Ice cream at Snoopy's. YOU DON"T UNDERSTAND---we DON"t have icecream like that in Canada! Naturally we need to eat their lovely products often in order to taste the variety of flavors available to us in such a short time. One day we hit the joint twice! The owners may start addressingus by name soon. We discovered that the Italians are nuts for Nutella---it's everywhere and in many things---and in the ice cream too! Back to our dinner and dessert plans. We made our way up the stone laden street, past the famous clock tower (if you google Cortona and see the main piazza you will see the clock tower and the steps---this is our main area to 'live' in. We shop for fresh produce and get our many cups of coffee around the corner, sit ont the steps and people watch, and walk thru for 10 million reasons). We went to buy icecream and heard ABBA yet again AND Dancing Queen being played live! We looked at each other and laughed out loud---what luck yet again! We purchased two ice cream delights and sat down to listen to a live Italian band singing in English! They rocked us to the tunes of Queen, Abba, and various other artists. The little children danced in the square while the parents sat down to enjoy a cigarette and a drink. The various stallions came out too. Clans of young men scoping out the night trooped together. Older Ricko Suaves also made their coloned way through the crowds, looking for catches along the way. The fashion here is different. Men wear very colorful clothes, pink, yellow, green, and purple jeans are common. Loafers fashioned out of suade and colored blue and red can be seen worn by very happy men. The men also wear sweaters wrapped around their necks and shoulders (it does look very chic). And the women, gorgeous! The women love their bling! Shinny rings, shoes with trinkets, flowy dresses, and plunging neck lines are all very common. People love scent! The Europeans splash on perfume and colone to do errands and mingle (I am in heaven!).
Ummmmm what else---Aviva and I are enjoying our excursion to the pool at the end of town. Our first trip included arriving by the 'behind the scenes' way (basically everyone else arrives by car and we seem to pop out of the bushes at the back of the building. So out of nowhere we show up to a disco pumping environment! Techno at the pool---not a bad way to make a humble entrance. Well, I was after all armed wiht my Gold Bikini so I was in fact prepared for this type of pool-side attire. An outdoor pool is a fantastic thing. You get a lounge chair equipped wiht a face shield for some serious tanning. Aviva and I think that tanning is a sport here---people are brown/black around here and they really get down to business.
The other day we decided to go to Assisi and our train down the mountain was leaving in half an hour. Apparently if you take a short cut you can walk down the mountain and arrive in such time. Hey why not? Sandals, dresses, and water we started power walking down in the heat of the day! Our luck changed when a small little blue truck (may I add this truck was a mini---I mean MINI truck---probably sits ONE well) pulled over. Oh Grandpa was so happy to see us and offered us a lift. No English. No teeth. Not much understood on our side either---ha ha ha. We repeated 'treno and stazione' repeatedly and he nodded. Um, Aviva and I had to share one seat. Are we married he wanted to know, with one hand patting Aviva's knee. The answer didn't much matter, he was happy to be next to a beautiful blonde. He dropped us off and tried very hard to get a kiss goodbye, his valiant efforts refused. The bottom line, we made it to the train on time and able to get to Assisi without a hitch.
Assisi is just as beautiful as Cortona and if I can move fast this morning I can probably post some pictures. My wifi is working and hopefully my battery lasts. Wow! We are currently smelling the fumes of a little three wheeled truck putting it's way up the 90degree incline street we are sitting on---did I mention that the street is maybe (Aviva's feet wide) 13 feet wide---when the cars go by you NEED to step OUT of the way, climb up a step or get into a door way!
Okay---I need to get to some pictures!
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Momo---Yes I did try calling and I couldn't get thru (those were the tears I shed in the cubicle yesterday) and thanks to RUmon I was able to hear that my message was received by mom (the internet and phones were not working so it was just a frustrating moment to deal with and you know very well how I do when I can't do anything at all---there was no heap of clothes to fall into---ha ha ha). As this link is working I'm just going to tell you here and now that I love you and miss you and that I look forward to seeing your facebook pictures of you and Claude in Banff---the connection are weak and I can't see pictures half the time---so when I connect I'll be leaving remarks for sure.
And Claudious Maximous---I met a french couple yesterday who live in the North of Paris and claim that the NORTH must be seen. Just talking in french about vineyards, castles, and sight seeing reminded me of our soon to be visit and it made me very excited about seeing you soon!!!!!! Hug Etienne for me and know that you both are close mind---often.
Mom et Dad---Biensur que je pense a vous, que je vous aime, et que j'ai hate de vous parler.
Sarah and Jeremiahhhhhh---Your Birthdays are this week and both of you have been in our thoughts and I look forward to celebrating when we get back. Bonne Fete Sarah. Bonne Fete Jeremy.
Okay---Pictures and MAY it work!!!!!
Thursday, August 27, 2009
A wee message for home
Ahhhhh the internet is a funny thing in a small town.
In Cortona you can have access from 2-7pm and by 5pm the system gets so full that it shuts down.
I hear we can get wifi on the street corner so like a good girl I'll sit on the corner and see what good comes out of it---ha ha ha
Aviva is trying to send emails to her parents and to Rumon---so if you are not getting word it's because 'we' are having issues in Europe---we are trying to touch base but sometimes the locations do not allow us to connect well.
Aviva smiles and says Hello all the same, she sends her love to Mom and Dad, a Hug and a kiss to Rumon, and little hugs to the puppies.
Mom and MonOncle---Merci pour le message---je n'ai pas besoin de la nouvelle carte en ce moment---ma carte fonctionne.
Jeremiahhhhhhhhhhhh----You're Birthday---I've been thinking of you very often---I see little owls everywhere---so you are thought of and we'll have to celebrate your August birthday in October---this could be fun!
Claudious Maximousssssss---the motorcycle? Cool! I'd love to ride with you and perhaps we can treat you to a Harley rental in France---I look forward to a good connection so we can chat about 'our' plans as you'll soon be arriving---Yippppppeeeeeeeee
Etienne---I saw the coolest knives today (we are in Assisi) and you should see the medieval things they do around here---it's Saltrpring Island gone back in time! Leather and fur knitted hats, leather socks, herbs, and knives fit for a warrior! When I saw Robbbbberrrrrrrrrrrto's display I thought of you.
Momo---my little Momo---you're in my heart all the time---so we talk often.
Mamma---Mamma Mia et Papa---Je vous aime et je pense a vous.
Pictures? Well we have a TON and of coarse I can't post them at the moment---ha ha ha---another novel to read.
Off to see the Basilic of St-Francis at the bottom of the hill---what a place!
Love to all---Didi and Aviva xxxxx
In Cortona you can have access from 2-7pm and by 5pm the system gets so full that it shuts down.
I hear we can get wifi on the street corner so like a good girl I'll sit on the corner and see what good comes out of it---ha ha ha
Aviva is trying to send emails to her parents and to Rumon---so if you are not getting word it's because 'we' are having issues in Europe---we are trying to touch base but sometimes the locations do not allow us to connect well.
Aviva smiles and says Hello all the same, she sends her love to Mom and Dad, a Hug and a kiss to Rumon, and little hugs to the puppies.
Mom and MonOncle---Merci pour le message---je n'ai pas besoin de la nouvelle carte en ce moment---ma carte fonctionne.
Jeremiahhhhhhhhhhhh----You're Birthday---I've been thinking of you very often---I see little owls everywhere---so you are thought of and we'll have to celebrate your August birthday in October---this could be fun!
Claudious Maximousssssss---the motorcycle? Cool! I'd love to ride with you and perhaps we can treat you to a Harley rental in France---I look forward to a good connection so we can chat about 'our' plans as you'll soon be arriving---Yippppppeeeeeeeee
Etienne---I saw the coolest knives today (we are in Assisi) and you should see the medieval things they do around here---it's Saltrpring Island gone back in time! Leather and fur knitted hats, leather socks, herbs, and knives fit for a warrior! When I saw Robbbbberrrrrrrrrrrto's display I thought of you.
Momo---my little Momo---you're in my heart all the time---so we talk often.
Mamma---Mamma Mia et Papa---Je vous aime et je pense a vous.
Pictures? Well we have a TON and of coarse I can't post them at the moment---ha ha ha---another novel to read.
Off to see the Basilic of St-Francis at the bottom of the hill---what a place!
Love to all---Didi and Aviva xxxxx
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
An Italian luncheon
Aviva and I really hit the jackpot when we decided to follow the precarious sounds of an off-tune kareoke singer. The night air was warm, our bellies were full, and we were in no rush to go to bed. So we candidly sat on the exterior of a hotel courtyard, and there in front of us, through the window, was a scene fit for a good time. A wedding reception coming to a close. There was one individual who had his tye wrapped around his head and with immence gestures kept beconing his victims to come dancing with him. He pranced, he giggled, and he wiggled his way across the floor to some sexy tune he knew. He danced with a couple of older women who appeared quite pleased to be sauntering next to him. This guy was quite funny and we enjoyed the music and the good times being had indoors. We were there long enough to figure out who the bride was, her groom, the best man and the best mates. We were there long enough to raise their curiousity in asking us if we'd like to join them! Well Abba was playing 'Dancing Queen' who can say no to that? So we went in and soon a glass of vino was being poured for Aviva (white) and roso for me. After the initial shock of being immersed with a croud of people we started to mingle and I soon met a lovely young woman named Jenny who is an RN in Dublin (her partner Ivan was the energetic dancer we so much enjoyed watching). We met the rest of the crew too, the friend Davide (sounds like Daviday) who is traveling to Croatia at the moment, Thomas who is in the Dolomites on a treck, Jenny and Ivan returning to Dublin soon, and another Italian couple who live near Bolzano. Ironically, the entire group (us included) made our way back to the busy bee street where the 'chatting and socializing' takes place. Our friends bought a bottle of wine the glasses came out and soon there we were, standing, eating, gabbing, and sipping! We all parted around 2am (a first for Aviva and I who have been up at the crack of dawn and usually in bed before 10pm!). AND---before we left we were invited to go to Momma Rita's house for a BBQ lunch and a swim in a nearby lake with our new aquaintances. We told them that we had thought of going for a hike to see the mountains and the dirt pyramids atop of Bolzano (the group looked at us and recited, but you were invited to a BBQ, you are IN the mountains you can see them anytime! COme with us!)...and so we went. We took the train to Trento and we were picked up and driven to a lovely property on a mountain side where Ivan's family gathered for this family feast.
There we met MammaRita and Ivan's Dad, his sister and husband and 2 children, Tatianna, Silvio and little Marcello. We ate like godesses! And the food was so delicious! Imagine a table laden with fat, luscious, hand picked tomatoes still warm from the garden sliced and seasoned with salt and a light vinegrette, thinly sliced cucumber sprinkled with course pepper, large navy beans bathed in a watery dressing, shaved lettuce strands tossed and heaped into a large bowl, polenta made fresh from the family's row of corn, mouthwatering savory meats roasted on the grill, and a plate of cheeses cut into large chunks. And as if this wasn't enough, the homemade wine was displayed in little glass jars and we were invited to taste some white and red homemade vino. After our meal was consumed the coffee was offered and as well,the flavored grappa made from basil and from pine was introduced. I've never had grappa in my coffee before but it was tongue tingling and refreshing all the same. Aviva and I kept looking over at each other and hinting with an unspoken language that said, can u believe our luck? After this meal I had no intentions of swimming, I felt more like sleeping than anything, but a tour of the garden made for a better choice.
We did end up going to the lake and we did swim. Aviva the sun-lover had a snooze on the beach side while I pedalled my way on one of those boat toys with Davide and Thomas. Our surroundings were breathtaking really. All around us there were mountains including the famous Dolomites in the distance, their tall peaks tickling the skies. Another late night out for us as for our friends would not let us go home hungry.
Here are some pictures of Bolzano and of our time out with our friends in Trento.
There we met MammaRita and Ivan's Dad, his sister and husband and 2 children, Tatianna, Silvio and little Marcello. We ate like godesses! And the food was so delicious! Imagine a table laden with fat, luscious, hand picked tomatoes still warm from the garden sliced and seasoned with salt and a light vinegrette, thinly sliced cucumber sprinkled with course pepper, large navy beans bathed in a watery dressing, shaved lettuce strands tossed and heaped into a large bowl, polenta made fresh from the family's row of corn, mouthwatering savory meats roasted on the grill, and a plate of cheeses cut into large chunks. And as if this wasn't enough, the homemade wine was displayed in little glass jars and we were invited to taste some white and red homemade vino. After our meal was consumed the coffee was offered and as well,the flavored grappa made from basil and from pine was introduced. I've never had grappa in my coffee before but it was tongue tingling and refreshing all the same. Aviva and I kept looking over at each other and hinting with an unspoken language that said, can u believe our luck? After this meal I had no intentions of swimming, I felt more like sleeping than anything, but a tour of the garden made for a better choice.
We did end up going to the lake and we did swim. Aviva the sun-lover had a snooze on the beach side while I pedalled my way on one of those boat toys with Davide and Thomas. Our surroundings were breathtaking really. All around us there were mountains including the famous Dolomites in the distance, their tall peaks tickling the skies. Another late night out for us as for our friends would not let us go home hungry.
Here are some pictures of Bolzano and of our time out with our friends in Trento.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Bolzano and activities
Aviva and I are not wasting any time here in the little town of Bozen.
Yesterday we rented bikes and took ourselves up the hillside to a picturesque little castle and took a bunch of pictures. Next we crossed town and found a ´galaping goose-like´ trail for bikes and pedalled for an hour. Thank goodness for our water tanks on our backs---otherwise a bike ride would be very difficult without fluids. No one wears helmets here and people smoke while riding to their destination.
Our hostel is so well located that we are able to get here and there virtually quickly---however finding the market yesterday took us much longer than anticipated but the scenery is so amazing that a stroll in a new direction has much to offer.
Let´s just say that we both found a good Italian keepsake.
After all that riding we made our way back home for showers to redy ourselves for an evening out. The streets are all cobbled, the buildings dating to practically the begining of time (not really but 800 years to me feels old)and the energy of the people is contagious---you just feel like you want to be out.
After a brief thunder and lightening storm we made our way to an outdoor seated restaurant to order some traditional `Tyrolean´dishes. Our table was able to sit up to six so we shared our spot with an older couple who didn´t speak a word of English. My french is coming in handy but most of all, our Italian in combination with our hand gestures makes for lively conversation and for the most part we seem to be able to convey our messages. The wine helps too. Well our dinner guest ended up spilling his entire plate on his belly---but he saved his meal by cupping the lot against him and standing up---he was not about to loose his veal meal to the floor! We laughed as it was pretty funny. We are on a huge apple strudel kick---we´ve had one that was just out of this world and now the others are pale in comparison so we may have to go back for a final taste tomorrow before we leave.
Back to our evening, the commotion in the nearby street started escalating after 9pm. We saw more and more young people making their way up around the corner and the chatter of hundreds of voices rose up in between the buildings. A steady hum of conversation could be heard until curiosity beckoned us to check out the vibe. First we thought, there must be a dance club and everybody is gathering outside, and what we saw was totally different. In Italy it is very common to stand and drink, stand and eat, and stand to socialize. The restaurants supply people with wine glasses and bottles to go round and your party gathers here and there and ´meet and greet´. So there was no line up. But there were hundreds of people in clusters of 5-10-20 partaking in smoking and drinking and chatting. We walked through and realized this must be a common thing to do---come out and visit---visit and meet new people. The entire scene was very welcoming.
O dear---I must go but I want to talk about the wedding reception Aviva and I ended up watching through a window and later invited to join in! We´ve met a bunch of Italian-Irish folks and we had so many laughes my face still hurts. So that´s it for me now---time time time---at least its fun times---a bientot---Dd
Yesterday we rented bikes and took ourselves up the hillside to a picturesque little castle and took a bunch of pictures. Next we crossed town and found a ´galaping goose-like´ trail for bikes and pedalled for an hour. Thank goodness for our water tanks on our backs---otherwise a bike ride would be very difficult without fluids. No one wears helmets here and people smoke while riding to their destination.
Our hostel is so well located that we are able to get here and there virtually quickly---however finding the market yesterday took us much longer than anticipated but the scenery is so amazing that a stroll in a new direction has much to offer.
Let´s just say that we both found a good Italian keepsake.
After all that riding we made our way back home for showers to redy ourselves for an evening out. The streets are all cobbled, the buildings dating to practically the begining of time (not really but 800 years to me feels old)and the energy of the people is contagious---you just feel like you want to be out.
After a brief thunder and lightening storm we made our way to an outdoor seated restaurant to order some traditional `Tyrolean´dishes. Our table was able to sit up to six so we shared our spot with an older couple who didn´t speak a word of English. My french is coming in handy but most of all, our Italian in combination with our hand gestures makes for lively conversation and for the most part we seem to be able to convey our messages. The wine helps too. Well our dinner guest ended up spilling his entire plate on his belly---but he saved his meal by cupping the lot against him and standing up---he was not about to loose his veal meal to the floor! We laughed as it was pretty funny. We are on a huge apple strudel kick---we´ve had one that was just out of this world and now the others are pale in comparison so we may have to go back for a final taste tomorrow before we leave.
Back to our evening, the commotion in the nearby street started escalating after 9pm. We saw more and more young people making their way up around the corner and the chatter of hundreds of voices rose up in between the buildings. A steady hum of conversation could be heard until curiosity beckoned us to check out the vibe. First we thought, there must be a dance club and everybody is gathering outside, and what we saw was totally different. In Italy it is very common to stand and drink, stand and eat, and stand to socialize. The restaurants supply people with wine glasses and bottles to go round and your party gathers here and there and ´meet and greet´. So there was no line up. But there were hundreds of people in clusters of 5-10-20 partaking in smoking and drinking and chatting. We walked through and realized this must be a common thing to do---come out and visit---visit and meet new people. The entire scene was very welcoming.
O dear---I must go but I want to talk about the wedding reception Aviva and I ended up watching through a window and later invited to join in! We´ve met a bunch of Italian-Irish folks and we had so many laughes my face still hurts. So that´s it for me now---time time time---at least its fun times---a bientot---Dd
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Bolzano
Aviva and I arrived in Bozen yesterday afternoon and we found our clean and friendlz hostel shortly after. We had planned to take it easy, shower and eat, and rest. However, after the shower we were quite eager to explore our new environment and before we knew it we were already half way up into the town oogling and googling the architecture, the many shops, and the friendly people on the streets. I`m using the internet in the hostel before we go to dinner so I only have half an hour and so I´ll do a quicky recap of yesterday.
We left Venice at 0935 by train and went to Padova where I was able to see St-Anthony`s tomb and also walk around his ancient church---a most powerful experience. Aviva and I have also had many firsts, catching sea buses, trams, trains, and walking and biking next to traffic (all very good little learning curves). Despite sweating all day long, drinking water like it´s gone out of style, and catching a bite to eat hours after normal meal times, we´ve handled all of our near mishaps with a laugh and a shrug.
Venice was amazing as was our day trips to Murano and to Lido. In Lido we went to visit a Jewish Cemetary (that´s the picture with the blue windows---it is a family crypt). We biked all along the coast. We found a perfect little plaza surrounded by cozy homes to eat lunch purchased from a local grocery store. Later still, we made our way to Lido´s ´free´beach and found the water warm and refreshing (no it was not a wonderful and inviting blue color but that´s besides the point). Everybody goes to the beach!
I´m afraid my time is running out. Aviva and I have taken a gizillion pictures today so our ´plan´is to dine and download---and I´d
We left Venice at 0935 by train and went to Padova where I was able to see St-Anthony`s tomb and also walk around his ancient church---a most powerful experience. Aviva and I have also had many firsts, catching sea buses, trams, trains, and walking and biking next to traffic (all very good little learning curves). Despite sweating all day long, drinking water like it´s gone out of style, and catching a bite to eat hours after normal meal times, we´ve handled all of our near mishaps with a laugh and a shrug.
Venice was amazing as was our day trips to Murano and to Lido. In Lido we went to visit a Jewish Cemetary (that´s the picture with the blue windows---it is a family crypt). We biked all along the coast. We found a perfect little plaza surrounded by cozy homes to eat lunch purchased from a local grocery store. Later still, we made our way to Lido´s ´free´beach and found the water warm and refreshing (no it was not a wonderful and inviting blue color but that´s besides the point). Everybody goes to the beach!
I´m afraid my time is running out. Aviva and I have taken a gizillion pictures today so our ´plan´is to dine and download---and I´d
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
August 19th A day to explore...
Aviva and I decided to get up early this morning so that we could make an early start in the San Marco square before the crowd sets in. Oh we had big ideas about taking a ton of pictures without being squished up. The alarm went off at 0500 and we were heading down the stars at 0545 very quietly in order not wake anyone. Marble floors amplify anyones footsteps. As it turns out, we were locked in! Plan B---we head up to the forbidden roof top haven to take pictures of the morning sun set against the old brick houses and it was a small satisfying detour while we waited for someone to get up to let us out. We lasted 15 minutes and tried our luck again, this time a sleepy and curious owner came out to investigate the cause of the many footsteps in the lobby and when he saw us he rubbed his eyes and looked at his watch---and we just moved closer to the door---yay freedom! We made it to the square in record time and there enjoyed the entire square to ourselves.
After a cappucino we made our way to pick up lunch for a day on Murano island (the originating location of glass making in Venice). A water bus takes you to your chosen destination---we had amazing views of the city and a warm breeze to bask in.
We were able to see a descendant of one of the great glass blowers of Venice create two items right before our eyes. The whole lot of us (because they do a tour-like showing)were organized on bleachers just like a grade three choir class, all snug side by side and row by row. It didn't take long for you to start feeling extra warm with a burning oven in the center of the room! It was pretty neat---the guy made a horse and he literally pulled the little things legs out one by one until the horse looked like life was being breathed into it. We later learned that such glass will explode after a demo as 'perfect' pieces need to be heated to a bizillion degrees and then cooled for 24hrs until they can be touched).
On our way back to the canal, we decided to visit a cemetery, also on an island. For 2 euros we had an afternoon of peace and quiet and tons of visually different types of tombs, crypts, and graves. The Italians take funerals seriously and this is reflected in the monumental and dramatic presentation of each family's heritage.
Once back on familiar turf, we stopped to pick up some fresh fruit, a slice of pizza, a bottle of vino, and some pastries. 5pm we are up here in the hidden haven on the roof top with the sun blazing hot. There's a little breeze which makes our dinner time very pleasant. I tell you the grapes out here are fat, succulent, and they literally burst in your mouth! Aviva is reading and soon we will download our pictures of today's activities. The church bells are donging away, it is 6pm and I can practically hear the guy yanking on the rope we are so near.
Well this is enough for now and I'll get to the pictures.
After a cappucino we made our way to pick up lunch for a day on Murano island (the originating location of glass making in Venice). A water bus takes you to your chosen destination---we had amazing views of the city and a warm breeze to bask in.
We were able to see a descendant of one of the great glass blowers of Venice create two items right before our eyes. The whole lot of us (because they do a tour-like showing)were organized on bleachers just like a grade three choir class, all snug side by side and row by row. It didn't take long for you to start feeling extra warm with a burning oven in the center of the room! It was pretty neat---the guy made a horse and he literally pulled the little things legs out one by one until the horse looked like life was being breathed into it. We later learned that such glass will explode after a demo as 'perfect' pieces need to be heated to a bizillion degrees and then cooled for 24hrs until they can be touched).
On our way back to the canal, we decided to visit a cemetery, also on an island. For 2 euros we had an afternoon of peace and quiet and tons of visually different types of tombs, crypts, and graves. The Italians take funerals seriously and this is reflected in the monumental and dramatic presentation of each family's heritage.
Once back on familiar turf, we stopped to pick up some fresh fruit, a slice of pizza, a bottle of vino, and some pastries. 5pm we are up here in the hidden haven on the roof top with the sun blazing hot. There's a little breeze which makes our dinner time very pleasant. I tell you the grapes out here are fat, succulent, and they literally burst in your mouth! Aviva is reading and soon we will download our pictures of today's activities. The church bells are donging away, it is 6pm and I can practically hear the guy yanking on the rope we are so near.
Well this is enough for now and I'll get to the pictures.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
A beautiful day in Venice
Well Aviva and I woke up at the early hour of 11am and we both feel rested.
What a way to wake---to the sun shining into your bedroom window and to the sound of the air conditioner keeping you reasonably comfortable against the already increasing heat.
34 minutes later---the two of us hitting the streets in search of coffee and some kind of yummy eadible---the result? A photo shoot of doors, alley ways, bridges, windows, and of the canal.
You think you're going to get one thing and end up doing another---it's the Italian thing to do---or maybe it's just us.
An hour later we found one of a many shops to offer coffee and we ordered a cappucino and a Cafe d'orzo and we settled on a bench in our square and watched the people mingling after the sercice (there happen to be a funeral and we were able to see the whole church walk out and head towards a small alley with everyone in tow---following the coffin perched on six shoulder blades).
The heat is so intense that you don't really feel all that hungry---Aviva and I are big on water and so we are endlessly looking and searching for bathrooms (which is a pain because most shops don't have a washroom and if they do you have to buy something or better yet---you can use the public bathroom is worth a small forture---well you could get a bathroom credit card--ha!
So we walked a lot today and made our way to San-Marco Sqquare where we were swallowed up by an immense crowd---everyone there to see the sights.
Anyways---it's 720pm and we are looking forward to a retreat on our little deck up top---the one that says 'private'---but it's small haven and we bought a bottle of wine, some salad, and a sandwich to share. We're heading to sleep early as we want to be up and out on the square of san marco for 530ish to get the whole thing to ourselves!!!!! We are very excited about doing a photo shoot without the monstrous crowd.
Merci Mom pour ta petite note---ca fait du bien au coeur---tu peut m'envoyer un email? J'aimerais qu'on puisse ecrire si on veut---un gros bec a toi et Dad---Un beau bonjour a Monique, Doug, Claude et Etienne xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Monday, August 17, 2009
Goodness Me---it IS as beautiful as in the movies!!!
No I did not get marooned out on some desolate island because our flights went very well. Aviva and I soared for many, many, too many hours and now it's well worth it! We know where all of the bathrooms in the aeroports that we have visited as we we both drank a ton of water---and we were lucky---on our 8 hr flight to London we were seated right at the back of the bus and near the BRs. Needless to say we were relieved---ha ha ha.
On my way over to Italy I was fortunate to see the alps protruding out of the clouds and it was quite the sight! And then, Venice appeared---isolated by large pools of water and decorated with a million old buildings. A perfect peachy sun bathed the entire city. We arrived at 5pm (and we are 9hrs ahead) and the heat nearly killed us as we lugged our bags to the water taxi.
We found our albergo in the heart of Venice and it really feels like a dream come true here---the summer heat is heavy with the scent of fresh food, the streets are ladden with people, cafe's, and colorful tempations (yes shoes and bags and trinkets) and everybody here is brown and beautiful (young and old).
We made our way up a narrow hallway to the third floor when low and behold---what did we see? Opposite to our room stood a little wooden ladder leading to a private little perch made out of wood---and so with pure excitement at the prospect of discovering a little gem of a hideway we threw our bags in our room and up the ladder we went---and just like that---we found a tiny haven reminiscent of hundreds of years of history! We could even see a woman opening her wooden window shutters to let in the cool breeze while she hung her clothes---I mean how ferfectly Italian is that???
Ok---I should really be going to bed---it's 1020pm and we have much to do tomorrow. Aviva is already in bed! But oh we had such a good night so far! We were so hungry that we devoured our 'on flight' sandwich that I saved for later and wolfed down some organic cookies so that we could walk around a bit and see the town.
We finished off our evening by taking a stroll in our new area where we by chance found the famous Rialto bridge---so we took the ancient steps to the top and perched ourselves over the edge to have a look below at the lovers taking rides in the gondolas.
Anyways---my head is swimming with a million images of today---so I must go to bed!
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Oh it's the NIght before...
Well I'm here at Aviva's house for my 'night before trip sleep over' and my friend has gone to bed like a good traveller would---early---and I'm up on the computer playing around because I can't think of sleeping!
I'm not alone though, my accomplice RUmon is here too, next to me on his computer doing something.
What a full day, I got off my last night shift and went for a hair cut and dye---I told her I wanted caramel highlights and I envisioned myself in my gold bathing suite looking quite dashing on the beach with my glistening hair in the sun (or maybe I'd just be blinded by my 70's style suite!).
I ended up nodding off during my dye job and she had to readjust my head---hold still---she requested politely---I had a big gulp of my cold coffee to keep sleep at bay---no more nodding off for me!
Oh what can I say, for some funny reason the caramel color stayed a dark chocolate brown and I have no highlights at all---however---I also have NO grey or silver hair either so in the end I am happy!
I am thinking I could lay down and try resting for a bit and maybe sleep will take over. It is---after all---an early start tomorrow and I want to be in a splendid mood for our trek off the island.
That darn common sense---off I go then---to bed (and it's not even 10 pm!)
Friday, August 14, 2009
Ahhhhhhhhhhhh Almost time!!!!!!
Good day---Well I'm very excited and I can barely believe that tomorrow night I'm staying over with my friends, Rumon and Aviva in preparation for our departure Sunday morning. Rumon is driving us to the ferry and Aviva and I are off---into the world---just like that!
My bag is---unbelievable---packed and I've tried very hard to heed the 'seasoned' traveler's advice---it is not however 50% full but it is rather about 70%---so that's not too bad and I'm happy with all of my trinkets and clothes that I'm bringing.
A huge and monstrous Thank You to Doug (aka....Toiiiiiiiiiii La---LaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAaaaaaaHHHHH---don't worry he gets it)---Doug is Monique's beloved partner---who has generously lent me his little acer laptop for my travels---he equipped the thing with a European plug so that I can not run out of battery time when I play on the computer and kindly downloaded over 800 songs for me to listen to when I get ready, cook, or hang out with Aviva! Doug you're grrrrreat!
I have a couple of hours before I go to work for my last night shift so it's up the Mt-Doug for a little fresh air and a bite to eat on top of the world.
I'm finally sending this blog off so here goes---and the intention behind it is---it's my way of journalling and establishing a sense of connection with my family and friends.
Didi
My bag is---unbelievable---packed and I've tried very hard to heed the 'seasoned' traveler's advice---it is not however 50% full but it is rather about 70%---so that's not too bad and I'm happy with all of my trinkets and clothes that I'm bringing.
A huge and monstrous Thank You to Doug (aka....Toiiiiiiiiiii La---LaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAaaaaaaHHHHH---don't worry he gets it)---Doug is Monique's beloved partner---who has generously lent me his little acer laptop for my travels---he equipped the thing with a European plug so that I can not run out of battery time when I play on the computer and kindly downloaded over 800 songs for me to listen to when I get ready, cook, or hang out with Aviva! Doug you're grrrrreat!
I have a couple of hours before I go to work for my last night shift so it's up the Mt-Doug for a little fresh air and a bite to eat on top of the world.
I'm finally sending this blog off so here goes---and the intention behind it is---it's my way of journalling and establishing a sense of connection with my family and friends.
Didi
Thursday, August 13, 2009
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