Looking Back Ten Years

  In but a few short hours, we will be in the air...heading back to Umbria for a spell.

  It's become a comfortable routine....

  Ten years ago, though, Umbria was not yet on our 'to do' list. We wanted Venice. We wanted New York. Venice for the Biennale, New York for Manhattan. So we combined the two, and never looked back.

  In a few short hours, we will be on the way to Umbria, and though New York is not in this plan, the Venice Biennale is. 

  I can't wait....But since I have to, I decided to look back at some memories of that first jaunt to the Big Apple, on way to our first Biennale adventure....

We stayed near Washington Park, ate well and walked all over.
Saw tons of art....and a few major sights.

We need to return. It's been far too long.

  Two nights in the city were not enough, and we've returned a couple of times, but it's been awhile. Perhaps in the spring...?

  Afterwards, we couldn't wait to see Venice for the first time. We booked a two week stay in a small apartment with a view of a small canal out one window, and this out the other:

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo.
We loved listening to the small groups of tourists as
they came into the tiny courtyard...

  Out the other side of the apartment, we watched the gondolas go by....

A good 'first time' visit.
We've loved Venice ever since.

  This will be our fifth visit for the Biennale, a city wide exhibition of the world's best contemporary artists. We try to make it every two years....

  Back then, ten years ago, I was bright eyed and bushy tailed. I like to think I still am, so... I still am.

Camera ready...but the blog would be about five years away.

A favorite place we visit each time for lunch.
Out near Burano, on the island of Mazzorbo,
this trattoria is still very old school.

  We've learned so much during our various stays in Venice, but mostly...I just think she is lovely.

  I. Can't. Wait.

  To see tons of art, that is.....

  I'm certain I'll be taking lots of photos, eating amazing food, sipping some great wines....
  All in all, experiencing this lovely city in all her glory.

No idea I'd have a blog and share these photos some day,
like ten years later!

  Oh, did I mention the art?

Johnny is not as enthusiastic about this sort of thing,
but I just love it. He likes paintings.
There is something for everyone.

  Johnny is pretty excited, too. We've read some good things about this year...so we are ready.

A favorite....

  I booked an amazing place this year, and can't wait to be there.

  Later, we'll head back to Umbria for a couple of weeks, to touch base with the apartment and friends. The back and forth is getting easier and easier.

  I can feel it already. First time in November, so we'll be ready for whatever weather will be thrown our way.

  Hey, it's all good.

  After all, it's Italy.

  I'll be busy posting once we settle in, so stay tuned!