March 16 Tuesday

Kathrin:

So much, so much! When I think about what happened yesterday or even two days ago it seems like a lifetime ago. So far we've visited Venice, Florence, Vinci, and San Gimignano, not to mention the twelve hours we spent in the Frankfurt airport. There is so much to take in. This is such a beautiful part of the world, I can't even describe it. Yesterday in Florence, I claimed to the top of the dome of the Duomo (the cathedral). 463 stairs later we looked out across the city. That view has no comparison. We have much farther to go and many more breath taking things to see. I'm so happy to be here.

Greetings family! That is how we are addressed each and every time by Riccardo, our guide. I rather like the ring of that and fully intend to use it from now on. We have driven through beautiful country today. We were in two very different medieval villages. The first, San Gimignano, referred to as the Manhattan of medieval times. The town is filled with towers, some you can climb, others not so much. It was the center of trade in the medieval world and the there were at one time as many as 60 towers in this village. Picturesque, ancient, beautiful looking out over the valleys of Tuscany. We then drove on to Assissi, the church and village that Saint Francesco rebuilt-created. Quite the story of St. Francis, worth a look-see to catch more of the details of his life and calling. This village is up on a hill - and yes - it is very reminiscent of the way San Francisco is laid out. Everything is up or down. WE used some muscles today that will be sore tomorrow! Again, beautiful views out over valleys - but of Umbria. Toscana (Tuscany) and Umbria are two regions comparable to states in the US. Let me tell you about your kids. I'll try to be brief, but they have been amazing. Good natures, adjusting to the schedule shifts and changes that naturally occur on any trip, not complaining about food. Wonderful!!! Perhaps you should also know that they are thoughtful, on-time, and I think having a fabulous trip. And they are thinking about you, wishing you could be here with them to experience this beautiful place. The comment has been made many times that the pictures will never do it justice. Thank you for trusting me with your sons and daughters. It is incredible to have this time with them!
Tomorrow we see Pompeii. It is a five hour drive and we leave at 8:30 a.m. So the morning will be spent napping pretty much. We will go to the bottom of the volcano, but will fill you in on that later. For now, everyone is safe, spending too much money and having the time of our lives! Ciao