National Road

I took a drive along the N2 this morning, heading to Swellendam for the weekend. It was good to leave the bad weather behind in Cape Town - the Overberg was bright and sunny, green and lovely.

 ~ A year ago today I met a sweet kitten ~ 

Clouds and Mountains

Another day of travelling. We flew over the Alps - twice! 

~ A year ago today I was preparing vegetables for my supper ~ 

Catch of the Day

We watched the fishing boats come in at the port of Rome this afternoon,. They offloaded an impressive amount and variety of seafood, most of which was quickly sold to the waiting merchants.

~ A year ago today I was watering my garden ~ 

Romanesque

I think my favourite church in Florence is San Miniato on the Mount. Was well worth the climb up the hill to see it today.

~ A year ago today my baby cat was being adorable ~ 

Floating Island

Visited the Boboli Gardens this morning - definitely a highlight of our visit to Florence. 

~ A year ago today I was watching New Girl ~ 

Tea Light Tree

Been visiting a lot of churches as a tourist this last week. Of course many people visit them for religious purposes, often lighting a candle at the altar. I like the candles a lot.

~ A year ago today I was playing with my cat ~ 

Poppies

Today we took a little day trip into the Tuscan countryside.

~ A year ago today I was eating tapas ~ 

Gelato

Lovely, delicious ice-cream... a daily treat while on holiday! 

~ A year ago today I was visiting Kirstenbosch ~ 

Dome

Climbed 414 steps up the Campanile to get a view of Il Duomo and the city.

~ A year ago today I was admiring one of my succulents ~ 

The Arno

Arrived in beautiful Florence today. We're staying south of the river so will be crossing the bridge to the centre of town most days. 

~ A year ago today I had a sandwich for lunch ~ 

Inside the Museum

I've seen a lot of museums this week! This new one at Casa Romana was small but interesting.

~ A year ago today I was wearing tights ~ 

Eternal City

View of the Roman skyline. Gorgeous, isn't it?

~ A year ago today I went to a literary talk ~

The Raphael Rooms

We toured the Vatican City museum today. Full of incredible treasures.

~ A year ago today I'd just started an easy read ~ 

Cemetery

We spent a couple of hours at the Protestant Cemetery today... unexpectedly pretty and peaceful.

~ A year ago today I met a friend's puppy ~ 

Tiny Little Car

Seen in our Roman 'hood, around the corner from our apartment. I love the cobbled streets, creeper-covered walls, graffiti and adorable automobiles.

~ A year ago today I was walking in the sunshine ~

Carbonara

Mmm, delicious lunch at a trattoria in Trastevere.

~ A year ago today I was watching a presentation ~ 

Roman Fountain

On holiday in Rome! Our first stroll included the grand Piazza Navona. 

~ A year ago today my garden was smelling sweet ~ 

Boarding Gate

At the airport, start of a long journey. 

~ A year ago today the sky was lovely ~ 

Highlights

My holiday is close and plans are falling into place. I'm enjoying doing a bit of research.

~ A year ago today there was an accident in my neighbourhood ~ 

With a View

I've been rewatching A Room with a View for the umpteenth time. I love this film - the actors, the dialogue, the music, the scenery. And Florence! 

~ A year ago today I was enjoying roses ~