Ahhhhh, Venice

Venice was one of the highlights of our trip.  The bascillca was so beautiful inside, I wish we could have taken pictures of the floor to soaring ceiling mosaics.

On our way to Murano to see some glass.

 View from the hotel's rooftop terrace

 The gondola ride was a favorite...

 Grand Canal

 More Grand Canal

I LOVED the glass!

I want at least one of these...

Venetian masks adorned many, many shops - they were so elaborate. 

Italy Treasures & Unexpected Finds

Things felt more special in Italy - the colorful stick adorned our gelato one day.  The smaller stick came in a drink - if you look closely, threads are woven between beads.  After all, it's the little things....

My diploma from The Food & Wine Academy of Florence. Such a special day.  Now, to whip up some pasta...

I couldn't resist these butterfly earrings - I think I can recreate them.

Murano Glass - I had to get a necklace and earrings and the ornament to adorn my Christmas tree this year.

Street vendors were everywhere making these necklaces.  They even had intricate wire guitars that they personalized - one is now in my guitar loving nephew's bedroom.

I had to get this silk tie for my dad, the airplane lover.

Doodles

My VERY talented graphic artist friend who stayed at my house while I was gone left these behind for me.  Thanks E!  I've never seen a rock look so lovely.

I had to have this olive wood ladle - it even smells like olives!  Luggage space was limited so I brought back very small things like this 3" diameter olive dish - the quality is fabulous!  I have painted olives on a plate before so I can truly appreciate the painter's skill on this bowl.