Keith's last night in Florence (for now)

Today is july10 at least it better be, because I think I am scheduled to fly back starting at12:30 tomorrow. This is what happens to your brain after you have had a great vacation. Deb and I have laughed so much these last two weeks - I mean really laughed. Today we set out to be easy on ourselves and planned to just check out a couple of sites so we could rest our weary bones.   After our usually huge all inclusive breakfast and cappuccino marathon, we set out to the academia. David was pretty great to see in person. We also saw a very cool instructional video of how to paint an early renaissance gilded altarpiece - we'll tackle that after we master fresco. The Bargello was next -such an amazing building and collection. Then it was time for pizza and a rest. Until we realized we hadn't seen Santa Croce, and then since we would be In the neighbourhood, we tackled the Casa Buonarroti. I found Santa Croce a bit of a disappointment. It was pretty jumbled up stylistically, plus the organ was being tuned which was an ear piercing experience echoing throughout the building. Casa Buonarroti was kind of a joke - it seemed like the remnants of a high class yard sale to me, plus the building was really run down and just seemed tired. It needs to be reworked by a talented modern designer and it will kick some butt. Deb and I have spent most of the afternoon and evening roaming around, taking cappuccino breaks, and reminiscing about the great two weeks we've had -I think we both marvel at the length of our friendship. We wandered to the piazza santa Maria novella, a favourite spot for both of us, and enjoyed a few drinks while the sky gradually darkened and we had on and off rain. We ended my Italian adventure sitting by the Arno watching the endlessly amusing and fascinating sea of people going by, all hoping to get that magical shot of the sun setting on the river, or trying to capture the reflection in their beloved eyes. We had a ring side seat and enjoyed every minute. It was a great way to say good by to Florence - we also tried to stop the accordion player outside our window from repeatedly playing the Frito Bandito song -we obviously did not give him enough money, because he kept playing it all night. All in all, a great last night to end a fabulous adventure for me - keep it up Deb!

Keith took the pictures that are featured below.