Florence - Tuesday

 I wandered around Florence today in search of supplies.  What to say about Florence?  It is a magical city. - a combination of new world and old world.  The smells, a combination of  leather, fresh bread and pastries  are enough to bring back first time visitors. As much as I wandered, mostly I stayed lost.  I am usually pretty good with directions but not so much in Florence.  I was trying to use Google Maps and just when I had it figured out - poof- my phone battery went dead.  I even considered a cab when I spotted a landmark that I recognized.  I start tomorrow at the Basicilla.  I wanted to visit it today but it is closed on Tuesdays.  Tuesdays?  Really?  Oh, well my plan is to be there about 9:00 in the morning to get in a quick peep and a prayer to start my journey.  It doesn't open until 9:30.

Dinner was at this little restaurant close to my hotel.  I sat next to this charming young couple from Boston on their six week long honeymoon. My dinner started with the best glass of Prroseco I have ever tasted. It came with two little crunchy bread treats flavored with Anise.

Next was "fresh artisan Paccheri pasta with  Mantuan pumpkin Cream and crunchy Speck from Trentino Alto Adige with San Miniato perfumes (truffles)." I ordered a side salad which was large enough to feed a family with children who love vegetables - so fresh - so tasty.

So it is a short blog - much to do tomorrow when I start of the Way of Saint Frances.  Good night and sweet dreams.