Goodbye Florence, hello Venice

Note: Keep checking back, they are sending pictures so fast I can't plant my Foxglove. (We've been to Oakland Nursery again.)  

Hello Venice: The last three full days of the trip.

Sunday the 19th Always handsome guides and they are always hugging Beth.

Ohio  

Venice

Venice

Beth and Chee's room in Venice.

Their Venice hotel.

Beth's lunch.  On purpose????

Breakfast with the dog.

Saturday. The 18th

Yesterday we drove to Pisa to see the tower. It's still leaning. It was nice to see but not much else there. Then we drove to a family villa in the Tuscany mountains for lunch. We tried their black olives, olive oil, and wines all grown and processed there. Lunch also included pasta, risotto, bruschetta and a variety of cheeses and meats. We got to see their vineyards and groves of olive trees. Their villa was nestled in the mountains with a spectacular view.

Today we had our bike trip, aka Tour de Italia. It was more difficult than we expected. It began with a 2k uphill ride which was difficult. It was a little concerning at first but got easier as the day went on. During the uphill battle I stopped  to get off my bike and fell. It was a graceful fall until the bike landed on my ankle. Then I felt weak and held up the tour for a few minutes. Everyone was very nice but now later this evening the “giggle sisters” think it was funny. We continued our ride through the country side and stopped at a winery and had a light lunch and wine. I don't think it's a good idea to drink and drive on two way roads built for one car and paved with uneven rocks. I think we should have gotten medals when we finished. Andre our escort was a nice young man and very patient. We really did enjoy the ride and it was another great adventure.

Alex, Kathy, Beth, Mary Susan, and Pam Taylor saying goodbye to Florence.  What a lovely time they have had so far and Venice is here today, Sunday.