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 !