Milan, Italy just after Christmas

Just before New Year's we took a quick trip via train into the center of Milan.

Christmas lights, tons of people, markets, tons of people, a fun afternoon.

Looking up at the Duomo (Michael's photo)

The Christmas Market was still going on around the Duomo and the food looked delicious.

Inside the Galleria there were lights everywhere and their own tree.

After the sun set the Duomo was bathed in light and the Christmas tree shown bright.

Happy New Year, Everyone!

Florence, Italy - 12.8.16

Florence, Italy...you have my heart.

I fell in love with this city in the rain during a past visit to Italy.

I knew that I had to share with Michael so after Pisa we drove and spent the night in Florence.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

The adorable narrow streets of Florence (of Italy).

The Mercato Centrale, second floor decorated for Christmas.

Tartufo / Truffles...I've never seen this many different kinds of truffle at a time.

A few small shops along the way...

Handmade leather books...I'm in heaven.

As walked the streets we stumbled upon this photo booth. 

We, of course had to wait in line and take our turn. So much fun!

 Michael too the photo below, absolutely stunning.  You can see more of his Italy adventure pictures by visiting this link.

Florence, Italy - you really do have my heart.

Pisa and a walk on the beach

In December we took a road trip to Pisa.

Pisa is approximately 3 hours from Milan.

"Take me with you..." - Java sits in the window watching as we leave.

The fog this December has been crazy. This is how our day started.

An hour and half later, blue skies as we drive toward the sea outside of Parma.

 Detour on our way to Pisa. A drive along the coast and a stop to walk on the beach.

Oh, how I miss the beach, the smell of the ocean, the sound of the waves...

Stopping by the ocean for a walk in the sun.

I, of course, need to find a few shells.

Below, this isn't snow in the mountains near Pisa. This is marble.

Carrara Marble is cut and mined from these mountains.

The star of the day...the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Inside the Cathedral was beautiful!

The Pisa Cathedral ceiling. Wow!

As the sun sets we continued our drive...destination Florence.