Tutti In Bici a Pavia!

I had such a great weekend!  I rode my bike for 43 miles, with two friends from the church youth group, to Pavia.  Then, we had two families over for a delicious dinner of roasted beef and special cheeses, and on Sunday we celebrated the birthday of their cousin in the countryside.  Next weekend is going to be even busier!

This is Francesco and Marta. Everyone from the youth group has basically grown up together and is like one family. They all have welcomed me so warmly. I am lucky to have met them!

And off we go!

Fishermen lined up along the creek on an early Saturday morning

The tomb of St. Augustine, in Pavia

Chiesa di San Pietro in Ciel d'Oro (Church of St. Peter in the Golden Sky)

An unexpectedly charming city

It was the first visit to Pavia, for us all!

Il Duomo

The university of Pavia, known for it's medicine field

La Certosa di Pavia

It was a perfect day.

Pasqua

Long time no write!  I have been busy editing an English book, preparing for my course, tutoring, and enjoying the wonders of this country.  We had a lovely Easter break.  Unfortunately I do not have time to give you details but we spent it in the Tuscan countryside of Livorno, Bolgheri, Castagneto, and Casale Marittimmo.  Enough said, enjoy the pictures!  :)

Blessing of the palms (they use olive branches because they are more common here)

Procession around the church plaza

Visiting a villa in Livorno

The ancient town of Bolgheri, where Giosuè Carducci wrote his poem about the cyprus trees lining the street, leading to the church of San Guido.