Friday, May 23, 2008

when in rome (and sorrento)

We wrapped up a week's worth of Italy with Dad and were sad to see him go; the time was sweet. He did some writing of his own, so we thought we'd share it below and let him tell a couple tales from Sorrento and Rome.

This morning we sleep a little longer. I spend the most relaxing morning of my life watching the boats pass, the flowers grow and the birdies fly. I read and relax. I think of Mary and feel her presence. I doze off and wake up drooling. It is good. Later, we shop, eat some lunch (pizza number 5). We jump the 2:30 boat to Capri. Once there, we rent our own Capri boat and circle the island, navigate an arch, savor the blue water of the Tyrrhenian Sea (still not the Mediterranean) and anchor for a swim. It is a memorable day. Back in Sorrento, we watch another sunset on the roof, listen to music and talk.

I wake early--kind of. I check on the car. OK good, still there and no ticket. What does that sign read? I shop a little, we eat a light breakfast. We head out and decide to buy tour bus tickets--you know, one of those jump on / jump off type. We see the Pantheon (eat lunch at McDonald's across the piazza), grab the bus to the Vatican and climb to the top of St Peter’s for some great views of Rome. We see the Sistine Chapel and I decide that either the early Romans had too much time and money on their hands or we have too little. This place is impressive, big and there are lots of tourists. And Wanida is taking just as many pictures as the rest of them. Hers are just more creative. No more Italian food. We eat at a fine Chinese restaurant on the other side of the apartment complex. They are not kidding when they say that Italians like their food. There are restaurants everywhere, and we are staying in a local neighborhood.

Back to just the two of us. It's sunny and splendid right now. We're basking on the picture perfect island of Santorini in Greece. It could be difficult to leave this place, so we may be here a while. Consider it an opportunity to catch a flight and catch up with us in person; pull up a chair and join us, sitting, perched above the sea.

7 comments:

Zac, Hillary, Malakai and Kihana said...

Wow!!! Amazing, amazing:) Thanks for sharing- so glad you had such an awesome time with Joe's dad. What a huge treat and blessing for you all! Love you guys, Hill, Z,M&H
We miss you guys:(
PS Today, Malakai asked when Joe and Wanina were coming??!

Miriam Maneevone said...

Wow, what a wonderful time. So glad Dad Maertz spoiled you with love and memories. Thanks for sharing. Your love and joy are contagious. we love your and miss you. Seeing your journey along the way is such a treasure. Not a day passes that we wonder: what are they doing now? We praise God for you and this wonderful adventure.

Ms Moneyone said...

Beautiful! I love that I know these places. So crazy cool.

Whimsique said...

You have no idea how badly I want to jump on a plane, come find you on your fabulous balcony and enjoy that place again. Eat a waffle with chocolate sauce for me:)

Anonymous said...

It all sounds so wonderful. Continued blessings on the journey!

kristy said...

sounds like you have just added some very cherished memories to your growing stack. i'm glad you are doing the things that make you come alive!

kristy said...
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