So as many of you know, I am in Italy and have been for a few days now! Which means that the jetlag is finally over and I am able to enjoy myself on a normal sleep schedule! Today me and my significant other went to Florence on my request and can I just say... wow! If you are a fan of art (and maybe if you are not!) you should come to Florence! It is absolutely stunning! We just walked for hours today and everything I saw was stunning. Just stunning! It is amazing for me (as an American) that I walked on streets, in buildings, and under statues that are older than the establishment of my country. For me, at least, that puts it all in perspective.
Today we went to the Galleria Uffini, a palace that was turned into an art gallery in Florence. I got to see a lot of paintings and I have to say, I wish I were a painter! The art is beautiful here and I think that even if you never cared for art in your entire life, you could find a piece in this museum that would interest you. A lot is Christian Art, which is fine with me because I love to pick through the symbolism in them. Not to mention the techniques used in some need appreciation. But I also had the luck of seeing one of my favorite paintings, which I was silly enough to not know was there: The Birth of Venus. To see a painting you love in real life is... breath-taking I assure you.
But, interesting enough, the most memorable part of Florence I might have (though I am not sure, I still have tomorrow) was a just an everyday action. I was sitting in the plaza drinking a glass of red wine while I wrote some postcards to my friends and family. The sky was clear and the sun was hot and the shadows of many statues loomed over me, including the statue of David. I got to speak Japanese to a couple for Japan who did not speak English very well. It was so mundane but so peaceful that it gave me pause. I wish that everyday I could have a moment like that and I think I will strive for one!
Anyways, I am running...
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