Florence

Heading to Florence from Venice - because well, why not?? I remember coming here as a young girl. I was 14 and I thought this was the most wonderful place I had ever been. (I had not yet been to Venice). I returned a couple of times during the period that I studied architecture in Krakow. It is always charming to me and (in my opinion) the gelato is superior to anywhere in Italy . However, one of the only real things to do here is shop - and I'm complaining about this why???? I'm not really. BUT, believe it or not, yes, I can tire of endless days of unparalleled Italian quality goods. Its actually torture for me. Between salivating over the leather luggage and marbelized paper and sinking myself into the fur coats and cashmere sweaters, I found myself wishing I had a money tree in my back pocket. OH the humanity !!! Its just TORTURE. I found so many luxurious items, I couldn't see straight . . LITERALLY, I could not focus on one item. I just lived in the distraction of pretty things at every turn in this haven of merchandise !!

Truthfully, one cannot come to Florence and not mention the Duomo. Built over a total period of 6 centuries (the 13th through the 19th) it is a triumph of Florentine architecture. It evolved in its design over the centuries, but it eventually was credited to Brunelleschi, who designed and implemented its famous ribbed dome. The city of Florence has done a great job in guiding enthusiasts into and up inside the vast dome every day. It is a maze to traverse, but fun all the same. The view from the top of the dome is one to remember. A must see if you ever find yourself venturing through Tuscany. Florence and its Duomo are an unforgettable sight.

Venice

Ahhhh, Venice. . . undoubtedly one of my favorite places. It has always been a place where I have felt totally at ease and comfortable. I come here when I need to be somewhere "different." Beneath the commercial tourism and souvenir shops beats the heart of a charming and unique city with a distinct link to its past as an affluent trading center. Walking in Venice transports me to an earlier time. I love the architecture, the water, the carefully crafted narrow stone alleys. The art alone is enough to hold one's attention for days. Glass itself has its own persona in this endless feast for the eyes. As many times as I've explored here, I never ever lose interest. In many ways, Venice is home to me. Its a mystery really. I don't know the tie here. I just know I come again and again. Maybe its my unconfessed addiction to Italian gelato? I know that we try in the U.S. to replicate Italian gelato - all in vain. It just can't be done. It was 40 degrees outside in Venice this evening and I certainly had myself some gelato. That is some serious ice cream!!






I visited Murano today (the glass-making island) and was successful in sourcing some venetian glass for my business. I am really excited about some of the possibilities. The artists here are not only talented, but extremely well-skilled. Since the art of glass is passed down in families, the community here is very tight. The Muranese take their art very seriously and Venetians hold this art in high regard.



I find that I'm not ready to leave Venice just yet. I've had only a few days and the weather has been amazing. Very lucky indeed since its December. It is a bit on the cold side, but worth every shiver. I'll return as soon as I can. Probably not for a few years knowing my schedule. It is such an amazing place - and yes, quite romantic. I hope to return someday when the romantic aspect of the city has a little more impact on me. :) Sharing this city with someone special will be an awesome thing for me. I look forward to that !