(David) 
(A Pieta by Michaelangelo...The face on top is the sculptor's)
(Our Hotel)
We spent a great deal of time viewing art and sculpture...we shopped for leather goods and gorgeous silk scarves...sweaters and shoes...we ate at wonderful restaurants and I learned on that very first trip that it is almost impossible to have a bad meal in Italy! I had gelato as we sat in a sunny piazza...sipped wine (and was not to tell my parents about this treat my aunt permitted) with my dinner...and went to the jewelry shops on the Ponte Veccio to buy my mother a piece of jewelry ... my dad had given me money to pay for it and I took this trust very seriously, indeed.
Ponte Vecchio
We walked through the ages old bridge, with shops on either side displaying gorgeous gems and precious metals in their windows. The shops mostly sold jewelry but there were also shops with leather goods and silks and other luxurious items. As we almost neared the end of the bridge we found the jeweler my aunt's boss had recommended. I was dazzled by the display of exquisite jewelry there...but something caught my eye...a beautiful pin with tiny sapphires and a small diamond, set in gold...my mother would love this, I knew...simple, elegant and just her taste. I purchased it and had it sent to our hotel...for the rest of the trip I wore it pinned to my bra lest I lose it or have it stolen! A later trip with my husband found us again in that same shop and this time we were asked to purchase the earrings for my mother. I now have the pin and earrings, bequeathed to me by my mother. Each time I wear them I am reminded of this and my mother's joy when she received these gifts from my dad. I was so thrilled to have been the messenger... I cherish the pieces and the love that they represent.
On to Rome where we had the thrill of being escorted privately through an empty Sistine Chapel and the Pope himself blessed rosaries that we purchased for friends at home! What an amazing honor for us. The Vatican was very awe inspiring indeed and our "special visitor" status was quite an experience for two Jewish gals from New york.
We trekked through ancient ruins and could imagine a gladiator's battle to the death...walked ancient stoas and wondered at the minds and labor that created the aquaducts and amazing architecture ...we entered the ancient temples and felt surrounded by the history and mystery that was preserved there.
I threw my coins into the Trevi Fountain assuring my return to Rome...it worked! I have visited there many times since...
We traveled to Pompeii and saw the ghastly results of the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. An entire population buried in the ashes of the volcano...bodies, perfectly preserved in the ash...homes, pets, housewares...all unearthed in tact.
Just an example of the times...when we got to the frescoes and mosaics with a sexual theme, "ladies" were asked to step back...some entered anyhow but I was considered a "child" and held back...(anyhow, David was enough for this "child", thank you very much!) I did get in there years later when I was "all grown up..."
On to Rapallo, Genoa (still partially battered from WWII) and the Italian riviera for a little R & R before moving on to Holland and finally, London.
( To Be Contiued with many fabulous recipes)
Ellin, Very, very interesting, to say the least. Thanks for sharing these wonderful memories and pictures are a bonus. You have had a very interesting life....and continue to do so...a very lucky lady indeed!
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