Just in Case . . .

Sometimes we have glitches with the internet connection in Italy so if nothing appears here for a few days that's what's happening. We'll try to get it fixed but who knows what's happening out there in cyber space!




Sept 28 - Arrivederci Florence

Our last day for the September group and what a good time we have had!  Today was for packing, last minute shopping, one more walk to the river and a wonderful goodbye dinner at our favorite neighborhood restaurant - Nerone's.  Tomorrow morning everyone will be leaving for home but we will never forget the beauty and our memorable experiences in Tuscany!  Thanks to all of you for following us on the blog and there will be more to come when the October group arrives on Wednesday.  Arrivederci!

 
 







 




 

Sept 27 - Jim's Hilarious Heist

Saturday was another free day to roam around town to museums, shops, restaurants and general wandering about.  No photos of the group today but here's the FUNNIEST THING that has ever happened on my tours!  A few days ago when we went to Lucca, Jim and Judy stopped in a clothing shop (all stuff from China - no Italian fashions!) that is just across from the train station.  On the way out of the store, Jim passes a rack with ladies panties hanging on it.  Out he goes onto the street to the train station and he wonders why people are looking at him so strangely.  Then upon investigation he realizes there is a hanger that has attached itself to the camera he has slung across his shoulder.  On the hanger is a pair of panties!  Judy is laughing her head off as she snaps a photo of this criminal act.  Jim hurriedly returns to the shop without removing the evidence to convince the owner that it was an unintended heist!  He quickly gets rid of the merchandise and dashes across the street to catch the train and vows he will not be going back into the Chinese fashion shop!  Absolutely hilarious!!!


 

Sept 26 - A Chianti Day

We started this beautiful Tuscan day at the American Cemetery just outside Florence.  4000-plus WWII military service people are buried in this peaceful and perfectly kept place.  It was a nice pause in all our touring around to remember those gave all during a very bad time in Italy.  Then we were off through the Chianti countryside to visit the beautiful Verrazzano castle and winery.  The birthplace of Giovanni Verrazzano who discovered places along the American eastern coast in 1524 including the Cape Fear River at what is now Southport.   The tour of the grounds and cellars was good but the wine tasting lunch was great!  You'll see by the photos what a grand time we had - even ridiculous at times!  We ended the day with a short visit to Greve, a charming Chianti town.  Another good day in Italy!  Stay tuned for more . . .