Our ride through the Italian Alps into the Austrian Alps is probably the most breathtaking sight to see. The huge massive mountains our train weaved in and out of as if getting deeper and deeper into Heaven. The houses are adorable. The windows pouring with colorful peonies and geraniums as if they wanted to kiss the sun.
Arriving in Innsbruck, Austria was such a nice surprise. The sweetest bed & breakfast that had a wonderful patisserie. It was family run which made it so personal and caring. The people of Austria are amazing. Very kind and friendly. We took a lift up to the top of the Alps. No wonder yoddeling started here. The air is sooooooooooo crisp and makes you just want to breath and sing! The views of all the mountains makes you realize just how small we really are. Mattias and I were here about 7 years ago and remembered there being a TON of snow. Now with the climate changing we saw it in person how it is absolutly upsetting to see such a change in mother nature. There was NO snow on the tops of the mountains. IF any there is maybe a square of 6 feet. Last time we were here there were people snowboarding in AUGUST. Now nothing. Pretty sad. Even though we are small in these massive mountains we really rock them up! Something needs to be done... SOON!
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre was none of the less absolutely beautiful. After such a hectic journey in the gorgeous city of Florence it was lovely to rest a bit in the quaint little seaside villages. Such a wonderful time to spend by such beautiful scenery. The colors of the houses was seriously warming to see. Golds, reds, yellows. The food was so delicious and really great to relax at the small cafes. Endulging in the gelaterias from corner to corner. So creamy and sweet. The water of the Meditereanean is a treat to see. The rainbows of blues and aquas ooooh and the clearness. Amazing!
I keep remembering these tomatoes we had. It was from a fruitstand in Florence. THey were GORGEOUS red and the taste of these beauties was the best taste I ever had. We ate them whole like apples. as they driped from the corners of our mouths down our chins we didn't pause to wipe just bit the next bite. They were so sweet and addictively juicy. I have to try and grow them just to get a fix!
I keep remembering these tomatoes we had. It was from a fruitstand in Florence. THey were GORGEOUS red and the taste of these beauties was the best taste I ever had. We ate them whole like apples. as they driped from the corners of our mouths down our chins we didn't pause to wipe just bit the next bite. They were so sweet and addictively juicy. I have to try and grow them just to get a fix!
what a beautiful village...
Fiesole, Italy
Our shuttle driver names Mario seems to know everyone in our village called Fiesole. As he rolls down the hillside he stops for a quick hand out the window and a nice buongiorno!!! to all the nice old ladies in their gray skirts and flowered blouses. All the old men shop keepers stand outside their shops smoking and tipping their hats to each and every nice lady who passes. People hang outside their windows to greet one another while watering their pink geraniums so happily... it makes me wonder what is in that tiny cup of espresso...
Our shuttle driver names Mario seems to know everyone in our village called Fiesole. As he rolls down the hillside he stops for a quick hand out the window and a nice buongiorno!!! to all the nice old ladies in their gray skirts and flowered blouses. All the old men shop keepers stand outside their shops smoking and tipping their hats to each and every nice lady who passes. People hang outside their windows to greet one another while watering their pink geraniums so happily... it makes me wonder what is in that tiny cup of espresso...
Italians in my humble opinion...
It's funny to watch the Italian lifestyle...
They rush in to get their tickets for coffee... then agressively slap it on the counter to the barista who waits to make their espresso not wanting to but willing to... They take their espresso in one gulp, then slam their tiny cut to the saucer, take their hand to their mouth to wipe any trace... say grazzi, ciao... grap their helmet... cup their hand and light their cigarettes as if they need it to breath then hop on their vespas and are off into this crazy city called Florence! CIAO!
They rush in to get their tickets for coffee... then agressively slap it on the counter to the barista who waits to make their espresso not wanting to but willing to... They take their espresso in one gulp, then slam their tiny cut to the saucer, take their hand to their mouth to wipe any trace... say grazzi, ciao... grap their helmet... cup their hand and light their cigarettes as if they need it to breath then hop on their vespas and are off into this crazy city called Florence! CIAO!
hustle and bustle...
If a fast paced hurried life is in your wish then Florence is the home for you. I prefer the quaint quiet peaceful countryside of Tuscany.
Although I can't deny, Florence is beautiful in so many ways. Looking down from above into Florence it looks so much like a painting. No wonder the Renaicence (sp!!!) period was here. From the Duomo Cathedral and its intricate persision to the golden honey alleyways with the sounds of the accordians echoing so faintly in the background as we stroll enough to loose ourselves in this city. I wonder how many couples are falling in love just now.......
Although I can't deny, Florence is beautiful in so many ways. Looking down from above into Florence it looks so much like a painting. No wonder the Renaicence (sp!!!) period was here. From the Duomo Cathedral and its intricate persision to the golden honey alleyways with the sounds of the accordians echoing so faintly in the background as we stroll enough to loose ourselves in this city. I wonder how many couples are falling in love just now.......
Bella Tuscany
After a long breathtaking train ride through the Alps we have finally arrived to Tuscany. Things seem a little bit slower paced...
Maybe it's the sun, maybe itäs the mindset but things sure are beautiful. Far in every distance you see large farm houses in every color of the sunset. From terracotta to golden brown to honey yellow. The sun is shining on all the angles of this gorgeous Tuscan life. There are so many fields of corn planted in patches along with sunflowers... looks almost like a big quilt of land. Rolls of hay and even watermelons. Everyone seems to have a little vegetable garden in their backyard with tomatoes and peppers ready for picking for dinner. Tableclothes and jeans hang every which way out of one's windowsill. There are straight lines of cypress trees that seem to loom over these ancient hillsides. I am going to fall in love with Tuscany.
Maybe it's the sun, maybe itäs the mindset but things sure are beautiful. Far in every distance you see large farm houses in every color of the sunset. From terracotta to golden brown to honey yellow. The sun is shining on all the angles of this gorgeous Tuscan life. There are so many fields of corn planted in patches along with sunflowers... looks almost like a big quilt of land. Rolls of hay and even watermelons. Everyone seems to have a little vegetable garden in their backyard with tomatoes and peppers ready for picking for dinner. Tableclothes and jeans hang every which way out of one's windowsill. There are straight lines of cypress trees that seem to loom over these ancient hillsides. I am going to fall in love with Tuscany.
the sweet life...
In and out of tunnel after tunnel we zoom through the German countryside. It's so beautiful to peek out my train window into these people's little lives. A lot like Sweden it reminds me...
People seem to not get enough of the nature and landscapes. Out peddling their bicycles and pushing their prams through the skinny streets... I think they might know what life is about. As they sip their coffees and crunch into their bright red apples they take things slowly and close their eyes to maybe absorb peace. If you walk alond a park or a pretty place with a park bench you will find people laying all over the place with bright colored blankets and fluffy dogs. As they lay back with the entire family filling their little cups with coffee from a thermos that is as old as I am they always have their eyes closed facing the sun... maybe they are thinking, pondering a vacation, or maybe they are just taking their thoughts in a little bit longer. It really is inspiring. I think I'll take this home as a suvineer.
People seem to not get enough of the nature and landscapes. Out peddling their bicycles and pushing their prams through the skinny streets... I think they might know what life is about. As they sip their coffees and crunch into their bright red apples they take things slowly and close their eyes to maybe absorb peace. If you walk alond a park or a pretty place with a park bench you will find people laying all over the place with bright colored blankets and fluffy dogs. As they lay back with the entire family filling their little cups with coffee from a thermos that is as old as I am they always have their eyes closed facing the sun... maybe they are thinking, pondering a vacation, or maybe they are just taking their thoughts in a little bit longer. It really is inspiring. I think I'll take this home as a suvineer.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Rothenburg, Germany
Here we are in beautiful Rothenburg! I mean when I think of charm and gingerbread houses I will remember this village. It was a feast for the sences indeed! Little hidden jewels tucked away as you peek your head into little alley ways. The food was amazing... as I love German cuisine! yum! ooooh and the beer! soooo creamy with little hints of citrus! My father and I climbed to the top of an old bell tower today with incredible views of the village and town square as were the views of the hills in the backdrop! The history is so old and hard to comprehend actually how old things are! You look at houses and little pathways and just ponder how cute and actually how old they are... then you visualize back into the medieval days and it becomes too much to take in. I really just have to let it soak in and appreciate all the charm and beauty this sweet little village gave us. Until next time...
Friday, June 22, 2007
Midsommar
Hi from Sweden!
Well we have made it to beautiful Sweden at last! It has been very nice weather the past two days. We have been out on the town popping into all the cute little shops here and there. The main walking street is so quaint and nice without any cars. We had coffee and pastries at a little cafe while Isabelle wandered about with all the other little blonde headed babies. Trampsing into a petshop, wondering into a clothing store. She is having a ball, as are we! It took some time getting used to the time as there wasnt much sleeping on the flight. But now we are all set as far as we can be.
Yesterday we went up to Ales Stenär. Its a beautiful place out on the country side of Skåne! There are these huge stones placed ever so perfectly in a shape of a viking ship. Legend has it, that a thousand years ago a huge viking ship was buried below and for the memory they placed the stones above. Now you can hike up along a trail to see them and the gorgeous view of the cliff. It goes straight down to the rocky coastline. Dont worry I help Isabelle tight! After the hike we had some herring and some really nice fresh beer at the fishing village. It was so warm and a nice breeze to cool you off. We even had a little swan visit our table.
Its Midsommar today and is it ever raining. Its very usual to have rain on this special day. Its a curse! no, no... thats one thing about these Swedes... even though its pouring down rain they wont let it stop them from their traditions. On midsommar its the longest day of light which is something to really celebrate! You have a lot of varieties of herring... potatoes, radishes, etc etc... and for dessert some 'Swedish' strawberries (they are special tiny ones that are only available this month) you have them with cream on top! delicious!
So today I went into the market with Lotta (Mattias' Mother) to get some berries and some midsommar flowers. It was really something to see all the families with their rain gear on and rubber boots pointing to each and every little flower to purchase. There were so many strawberry farmers selling their finest! All the little children were splashing in the puddles and dancing about in the cold rain. Sticking their tounges out to catch a little drink from the drops. To be a child agin! Now the guys will go into the forest to pick things to decorate the Maypole with greenery. My mom and Lotta and I will make Isabelle a pretty flower wreath for her head. We will get dressed in our summer clothes and head to a castle nearby for a little festival. Then later on we will come home to some great food and lots of Schnapps and singing! Skål!
Well we have made it to beautiful Sweden at last! It has been very nice weather the past two days. We have been out on the town popping into all the cute little shops here and there. The main walking street is so quaint and nice without any cars. We had coffee and pastries at a little cafe while Isabelle wandered about with all the other little blonde headed babies. Trampsing into a petshop, wondering into a clothing store. She is having a ball, as are we! It took some time getting used to the time as there wasnt much sleeping on the flight. But now we are all set as far as we can be.
Yesterday we went up to Ales Stenär. Its a beautiful place out on the country side of Skåne! There are these huge stones placed ever so perfectly in a shape of a viking ship. Legend has it, that a thousand years ago a huge viking ship was buried below and for the memory they placed the stones above. Now you can hike up along a trail to see them and the gorgeous view of the cliff. It goes straight down to the rocky coastline. Dont worry I help Isabelle tight! After the hike we had some herring and some really nice fresh beer at the fishing village. It was so warm and a nice breeze to cool you off. We even had a little swan visit our table.
Its Midsommar today and is it ever raining. Its very usual to have rain on this special day. Its a curse! no, no... thats one thing about these Swedes... even though its pouring down rain they wont let it stop them from their traditions. On midsommar its the longest day of light which is something to really celebrate! You have a lot of varieties of herring... potatoes, radishes, etc etc... and for dessert some 'Swedish' strawberries (they are special tiny ones that are only available this month) you have them with cream on top! delicious!
So today I went into the market with Lotta (Mattias' Mother) to get some berries and some midsommar flowers. It was really something to see all the families with their rain gear on and rubber boots pointing to each and every little flower to purchase. There were so many strawberry farmers selling their finest! All the little children were splashing in the puddles and dancing about in the cold rain. Sticking their tounges out to catch a little drink from the drops. To be a child agin! Now the guys will go into the forest to pick things to decorate the Maypole with greenery. My mom and Lotta and I will make Isabelle a pretty flower wreath for her head. We will get dressed in our summer clothes and head to a castle nearby for a little festival. Then later on we will come home to some great food and lots of Schnapps and singing! Skål!
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Are We There Yet???
Oh my... the day is almost here! We leave in about a week for our big adventure! This summer we are all going on a HUGE holiday for 6 WEEKS!!! Me, Mattias, Belle, and my Mom & Dad will be heading off to beautiful Europe to entice our senses! We are just about ready. Have our plane tickets, train tickets, boat tickets! all the times and schedules saved on our iPod. I have contacted some vineyards and fun little excursions which we will take a little time to see. There is one vineyard in Fiesole, Tuscany which I hope we can see. They have invited us to take a little tour and see their vines and olive trees. They produce a wonderful organic olive oil. their site is www.poggiopiano.it hopefully that will work out.
Mattias' mother and boyfriend Roland (Farmor & Farfar or Lotta & Roland) will be picking us up in Copenhagen, Denmark once we arrive. We will be stopping at the dutyfree for some beer and wine then head back to Sweden for a little resting! zzzzzz! We will have a week in Sweden and will once again get to experience the oh so famous "Swedish- MIDSOMMAR!!!" It will be so wonderful to have my parents be involved in such a great tradition. gotta make our little flower wreaths for our heads and practice our singing! That week will be getting settled in and showing my parents all of my favorite little spots of Ystad, Sweden. We will stay in this village which is absolutely beautiful and so relaxing to just sit at a little cafe.
www.ystad.se
Starting Monday June 25th we will take the train and make it down to Rothenburg, Germany.
then head to Florence, Italy
then Pisa, Italy and Cinque Terra, Italy
then back to the Alps to Innsbruck, Austria in the Tirol region.
then head back to Sweden for the rest of our stay.
So far that's all we have planned and will play things by ear and flip some coins here and there! I love these fun adventures and I am so excited raise our daughter that way... and may I add... very excited to have my parents come!!! It's going to be amazing!!!
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