We're Back

We made it; we're finally back to Siena. The trip here was not perfect, but it was for reasons beyond our control and the kids and I did really well despite the circumstances. Alitalia (not known for its stellar service or equipment) came through in it's usual way. The super-hot and super-bright reading lights in our row (and about 15 other rows) were stuck in the 'on' position...less than ideal for an overnight flight for anyone, but certainly for an overnight flight with two children in tow. So the three of us (and many of our fellow passengers) made the best of it by making a tent over our seats with the green acrylic blanket that we were each provided. So, we endured a sweaty, moderately dark flight here, but we made it.

Wade picked us up in Florence and within a few hours Anna was doing cartwheels in the yard at Borgo Villa Risi. The kids are so happy to be back here. Everything at the villa looks and smells the same and I think the kids find that comforting.

For our first night back the kids requested to go into the city. Of course we needed to start with the requisite run along the steps of San Domenico.

We had dinner at one of our favorite restaurants and then walked through the neighborhood belonging to the contrade who won the July Palio, the Oca (Mom, that's the goose contrade...your favorite of the flags). As expected, they had their flags and lights out to show off their recent victory.

And the reward for our uphill trip through the Oca contrade...why gelato on the Campo of course!

The kids were exhausted after flying all night, but they managed to find a little bit of energy to run like crazy around the Campo and scare the pigeons.

Despite the extremely short car ride back to the villa, someone was a little too tired to keep his eyes open. Tomorrow Wade will be off to work and the kids and I are looking forward to a day of reacquainting ourselves with the villa and making our plan for the rest of the week.

It's good to be back :)