Since last summer, Milan has been on my list to visit. I am extremely lucky to have been able to visit this larger Italian city. The biggest difference from Florence that I noticed was the architecture, it seemed to have more of a French feel. The Duomo also did not disappoint, with the gothic aesthetic and ornate detail. We climbed to the top, a lot shorter than I expected, and walked right out onto the roof. Seeing Duomo had me wondering about how time consuming the building ended up becoming. We first walked through the duomo museum that contained many different relics as well as figures. I didn't realize all of the planning that went into these churches when they were being built. There were many different figures made from stone, and also their models made from clay. Art is such a fascinating subject, and to this day it impresses me with its vastness. I have to admit that Milan was beautiful but I don't think anything will ever be able to compare to my Florence. On to the next adventure!
Amalfi Coast
Waking up to the bright colors of each home overlooking the water and feeling like I was in Greece, that's how I felt this past weekend. The Amalfi Coast was not only one of the most beautiful places I have ever been, but the town Atrani was probably the cutest most quaint areas in it. We had the pleasure of staying in A Scalinatella hostel that is owned by two bothers. Not only did they accommodate our late arrival, they gave us our own room and packed our breakfast for us when we were leaving early Sunday morning. We could not have been happier, and I totally recommend this hostel to anyone. The town of Atrani is only a 15 minute walk along the winding road to Amalfi. Although the bus schedule was a little harder to understand, the view once on is one that I will never forget. Amalfi and all of its tiny towns is probably favorite place in Italy, apart from my beloved Florence. I felt relaxed and refreshed when the sun hit my skin. I never wanted to leave, if I could have stayed I would take any little job and sleep on the beach just to keep my feet on those bright white steps. All I will be dreaming about for the next couple years is that salty breeze. Until next time Atrani, ciao!
Castiglioncello
At this moment, or while I am writing this, I am sitting on one of the rocky beaches on the west coast of Italy. While sitting in the bright sun, this wave of relaxation and content washed over me. I love when this feeling invades my pores, I am just reminded how blessed I am. This past year has been a tough one, emotionally and mentally. I have been trying to find myself as well as find my artistic voice. But it is times like this that I remember that my best is ok, it's good enough. Sometimes I just need to remind myself that I can only be myself and that is all I need to do. And today I feel content, I feel comfortable in my own skin. And I am happy.
