Archive for October, 2008

Hiking Le Cinque Terre

Monday, October 13th, 2008

A glorious stretch of weather this October.  Perfect for hiking Le Cinque Terre.  Took the train to Spezia and transferred, got off at Riomaggiore. Spent a wonderful afternoon hiking the trail, wondering the five lovely towns.  Stopped in Vernazza for lunch and then took the ferry to Monterosso al Mare.

The ocean and vista was a start contrast to the city streets of Firenze.  The train was comfortable and people on the train were delightfully friendly.  I enjoyed spending the day with four young women who are all studying abroad.  A perfect day trip if you do not have more time to spend.

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A Saturday Drive in Chianti

Monday, October 6th, 2008
With only two weeks in Florence surrounded by stone it seemed like a wonderful opportunity to join a friend for a drive in Chianti.  Vineyards, rolling winding roads, hills, vistas, castles, olives on olive trees, figs and grapes.  The weather was colder than in Florence and quite windy.  The afternoon cleared up and the light got warm and glowing.  Forgive me there are some shots of the same vineyards in late afternoon light that I had to include.  I had a fresh fig from the tree that was succulent and enjoyed a truffle pate on fresh bread.  Could not have been a better day!

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A Walk to Piazzale Michelangelo

Wednesday, October 1st, 2008

The weather has been crystal clear warm and breezy….I have been spending a great deal of time setting up my studio and getting art supplies.  I have started to get into a good rythym of working now that the everyday logistics have worked out.  Once I could find the art supply stores I was all set.  Comunication with home was the other pressing issue, not I am logged in and skyped, googled and a touch away by phone.  Definetly a great sense of connecetedness with all this cyber talk.

So on Sunday I decided to an outing to Piazzale Michelangelo, the day was to good to be indoors.  On my way I passed through Piazza Santa Croce, which was magnificent.  I crossed the Arno and walked up the many steps to the top.  The view of the city was spectacular and the mountains surrounding were inviting, It was very windy, but warm.  I was so glad to be up there looking down on the city and the bridges.  I did some sketching and was inspired.

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