Chiusdino,
Tuscany,
Italy
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
After spending the day roaming the neighborhood on foot, and making sure we get a nap (the opera doesn't start until 9!), it's finally time to head over to San Galgano Abbey. Thankfully, the rain had moved on and it was a gorgeous day. We went early so we could dine at the ristorante there, and sat outside and watched a beautiful play of setting sun and shadows move around the abbey. The language of the opera was sometimes German, sometimes Italian, which was a bit confusing, but all in all as wonderful an experience as Dave and I hoped it would be. It was 1 am before we got home - way past our bedtime - but I took advantage of the time difference to call the Pinkertons. I've been having grandbaby withdrawals, with two Saturdays having gone by and not talking to them. On my last cell phone, I used "The Magic Flute" as Jennifer's ringtone, so you can see why they're on my mind. One of the more difficult adjustments for me has been the feeling of isolation from family - you can't just pick up the phone and call (too expensive), or send an e-mail (no accessible internet) anytime you feel like it.
Towards the end of the opera, it began to feel damp, and as we came out of the abbey you could see the fog starting to settle in the low spots. Once back home, it was another one of those magical moments... the moon is full, and we could look out over the valley and see moonlight reflecting on all the drifts of fog. Dave got some pretty good shots, but the pictures just don't do it justice. What a night! And now it's off to bed for a few scant hours of shut-eye, for we're taking a day trip to Siena and DH wants an early start.
