Nick Gilroy
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About
I am a student, cyclist and photographer aspiring to my dreams and living life to the fullest.
My greatest passion, my way to blow off steam, my way to find peace, my way to bring my breathe into a calmer state, is through cycling. I simply love the act of riding a bicycle and I have been doing so for years. I currently race and I am also a bicycle guide for Destination Cycling.This is a way to follow my journeys and get a glimpse of what I am doing in this gift we call life. Enjoy!
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Posts
- May 15, 13
P.S. Were watching the end of the Giro today-We will be somewhere on the last finishing climb so watch the sidelines, we might get 15 mins of fame! Im going to wear the pink scarf I have! :D - May 15, 13
Salve! All the way from the Dolmite Mountains.
View from our B&B Patio!
(Can't believe I just said that for one, and for two, you must go check this out: Monsieur Googel..)
Any way, I am just writing to you from the patio of our B&B which just happens to look out over the crack of where the dam broke many years ago. The story is all in the history of Longarone. Sipping on my Chamomile green mint tea and eating granola with milk (I know i know, but just wait for it...) FROM Austria (no gmo). I am taking deep breaths, deep into places where the city air wouldn't go. Places I never wanted to breath that deeply into because of the thick city air. Here, the air is laced with sweetness, freshness and just has that smell of air. (and yes, its much better than the laundry detergent fragrance.)Arrivederci Firenze, Buongiorno Italia Nord!
I can't believe our time in Firenze has ended. My cyclist man has just returned from riding up to the finish line of todays Giro stage. I can't wait to get my paints out and paint these landscapes. They are truly other worldly, things only seen in my dreams. A bird twitters his song, un burdened by city sounds, although, Florence was the most quiet city, having no cars in the center of the city made such a difference and it would shock me every time I realized there was far less sound than there should be.Amazing flowers (this one I think I'm going to paint.)
I have learned so much from this experience. Although, I am not ready to create a list of what exactly that means yet. This journey is still unfolding.
I do know that yesterday was a crazy day and we walked about .75 miles (three times) to bring our suitcases and our stuff to the car. The down side of not being allowed to drive in the city. We got out work out in, bought 6 fresh centrifuge juices as they say in Italy, and then we headed out on our drive. Once we were on the highway the traffic was much less nerve racking. Kai did fine behind the wheel after 5 months away from any motor vehicle.
We will actually be able to get all of our stuff home I think! That was a great realization for me, thinking that I would be, well, screwed trying to get it all home. I mailed my finished art work, and some other things, but no shoes, can't mail those in or out of Italy. Also can't mail any toy that isn't totally wooden, coffee or substitutes for coffee, photos, stamps etc... so some strange items. Kai could't mail his work, but the size of mine was more difficult to handle than his so it worked out fine. (we should have totally sent more stuff home with you Momma!) Oh, well.Shane, Sean and Kai catching up by the locals bathing spot!
Well, enough chitty chatter, I am going to read the book that I traded in for at our Apartment, "Letters to a Young Poet" by Rainer Maria Rilke. Have any of you read it?? Great book. Wow. Filled with great quotes for any artist.
"Being an artist means, not reckoning and counting, but ripening like the tree which does not force its sap and stands confident in the storms of spring without the fear that after them may come no summer. It does come. But it comes only to the patient who are there as though eternity lay before them, so unconcernedly still and wide. I learn it daily, learn it with pain to which I am grateful: patience is everything."
"Works of art are of an infinite loneliness and with nothing so little to be reached as with criticism. Only love can grasp and hold and be just toward them."
"I know no advice for you save this: to go into yourself and test the deeps in which your life takes rise; at its source you will find the answer to the question whether you must create. Accept it, just as it sounds, without inquiring into it."
and one of my favorites so far,
"You are so young, so before all beginning, and I want to beg you, as much as I can dear sir, to be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and to try to love the questions themselves like locked rooms and like books that are written in a very foreign tounge. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now."Jimmy K. can you carve something like this?
Love and peace and sunshine and GOOD FOOD to you all.
xoxoxo
-Wren - Apr 26, 13
The nice thing about being an artist and going to school...
is that the school often holds exhibitions!It's not easy for artists to get their names out there and become part of an exhibition. But, one of the benefits to being a student is that schools almost always want to showcase their students work and that is exactly what F_AIR did! The theme this year was based on the movie, "Between Two Worlds." It is a film about an Italian family who leaves everything behind, with difficulty, and makes their way to America. We were using this as inspiration, utilizing motifs and themes found in the movie. Well, I was luck enough to have one piece from each of my two art classes chosen! This is the catalog for the exhibition. It was held at Ganzo, the schools restaurant. It was a great night!And here I am with my art and my friends Chanel & Holly!! - Apr 25, 13
After seeing the tragedy in Boston, I felt the need to create in the name of love.
I did these little paintings as a reaction to Boston and as a contribution against the hate which they spurred through their violence. I wanted to share as a reminder of the impact we all have on one another and how anything we do-directly to another person or not-makes an impact on the overall quality of life on this planet. - Apr 17, 13
Apparently, as if I didn't know, this is the year when people my age tend to study abroad!
With this semester beginning to look a lot like finals, and as weather gets AMAZING everyone seems to be seeking out more relaxation and outdoor activities. Yoga, running, late nights wandering the piazza, gelato on the bridge, cappuccino on the patios, street artists everywhere; simply put, with sunny days, La Bella Vita can be enjoyed at its fullest potential.
In my sketchbook class, we were drawing the Duomo at Café Oblate which sits on top of the library. Filled with college students and local italians, this place was hopping! Here is my sketch:What do you think? Not too bad... I'm not finished quite yet. Keep in mind its flipped like in a mirror!Class ends at 5:30 and I have just enough time then to make it to the 6:00 yoga class. And I decided to do just that. I dropped off my portfolio, threw on some yoga pants, and I headed on over across the river to 19r Yoga where I have a month pass.
As I waited outside for the studio to open, I was listening to the girls next to me chat. They seemed to be having fun. One of them was wearing a tye-dye t-shirt and I noticed it said "CIT '08." As I looked at her face I thought my eyes must have been playing tricks on me; no, it can't be... But yes, it was my friend Katherine from Camp Huckins. The "Huckins Girl" song popped into my head and it sure rang true at that moment. We started chatting and as we discovered there we be no class due to lack of vacation coordination, one of Katherine's friends suggested we walk to the Cascine and do yoga in the park!After a giggly om we were in a nice groove and even inspired others around us to stretch and feel the movement and peacefulness of the park with us. In the distance I saw some slack liners and others running. It was an active day in the park.
Meeting up with Katherine was such an amazing twist for me. Her friends were very welcoming and one asked if I wanted to be her art buddy sometime and go to draw around the city. I was happy class was canceled!
The walk home was very nice;
Nick and I decided on a dinner place called Giova, and it was AMAZING. The food was so sosososososo delicious. Nick had duck with pomegranate and onion, the most flavorful dish he has ever eaten he said. I had Baccalá (along with 4 others there at the time). I was eyeing the plates of the group across from us, and after about the third longing stare at their meals, the man told me it was the Baccalá and the woman said it was so good, and something else which made Nick laugh so I smiled too. I knew this is what I must order. It was a white fish, sitting on top of delicious mashed something, with sautéd spinach and then topped with fried potato strings. Sounds simple. It was simple. But it was so bursting with flavor and perfection. It was crunchy, soft, green, and garlic-y. I was in heaven. And it didn't break the bank!!
We skipped dessert at the restaurant because we had an appetizer, but we did stop at Via de Neri for gelato (soy for me.. but I couldn't pass the Rose Gelato so I got a bit of Rose on top with Nocciola Soy Gelato!) A magical night. Such a blissful day. Running into friends, who love yoga, enjoying the weather, dinner with my love, and appreciating food made by people who appreciate food. La Bella Vita.
________________________________________________________________________________Today, I decided to try a new café and I am so so sososososo happy I did!
Meykadeh
This cafe has tea in little plastic jars which you can unscrew to smell, and pull off its little magnet, which is inside the container. It has plush creatures on the walls and ceilings, burlap, pastel colors, simple wooden furniture, and books for sale; new and used. It has little hiding spots and a bar. It is my place. I love it. It is hidden, but yet had lots of natural light. It's accessible, but I only saw three other people here my whole two hours here. They are open until midnight. I'm in love. The owner just sits and reads (who is a gorgeous woman wearing high heels and asked me to wait a few moments while she changed her light bulb. This is her place. I found a new heaven.It is amazing to me how many amazingly confident and smart women there are here. Not as though I wan't expecting that, just that it is really prominent. Even though it would seems like a male dominated culture perhaps, it is very much the women who got it going on here!There is an artist's studio I walk past every time I go home, and I always look in. The woman is surrounded by her art, wears a scarf on her head and rides a bike. She has a "caution dog bites sign" but I've never seen a dog.The teachers of my classes and the women who run the art space at school are so great; they tell you there opinion. They are proud but not pompous. They know what they are doing and are encouraging without being pushy.The restaurant Giova was a collaboration between a man and a woman who's picture was on the from of the menu.The woman who I always see at the organic shop where I buy my favorite chocolate!
Not to mention all my friends who are here!!!
I find it incredible that out of a city where most of the big male names of art & philosophy began, comes amazing "go-getter" type women.
Inspiration to think on.
Ciao for now my peeps! Keep on following your dreams.
-Wren(This is the book I've been reading lately; I highly recommend this writer!) - Apr 16, 13
- Apr 03, 13
Believe me when I say this was good, because it was really good!
We made chili at Liz's apartment with some other new friends last night and it was so yummy! This was what I made to add as a side dish. There was none left! I can always make more though, plenty of ingredients! =](not necessarily in that order.) - Apr 03, 13
Hello From Paris, Budapest and Florence!
This past few weeks has been a whirl wind of trains, planes and lots and lots and lots of walking. Liz, Kai and I spent 4 days in PARIS, and six days in BUDAPEST. And now we are back in Florence and it seems like we brought spring weather with us FINALLY!
It was absolutely the time of my life. It was so so sosososososo much fun. We went to so many places, saw so many faces, ate at so many yummy places and got a chance to bond much more deeply than we would have other wise been inclined to. (I mean, sleeping on the floor of a tiny studio apartment really brings you closer together, ya know?) So, in a nut shell here is the run down of our ADVENTURE!
DUN-DUH-NAH-NAHHHHHHH DRUMMM ROLLLLLL PLEAASEEE........
Thursday:
After a week of overly-exctited midterm taking:Train to Pisa---then we Flew to PARIS!*on the bus ride into the city we saw the Eiffel Tower glittering in the distance. Fate.*Stepping off the bus near our digs I found an adorable little rose pin on top of a barrel and it was perfectly in tact!
Friday:
Found GLORIOUS pastries for breakfast, and some exorbitantly expensive OJ. Oh well, gotta keep on top game when traveling like that! (I did bring my vitamins, yes Mom.) :PWe then made our way (a bit late) to Notre Dame and were awestruck. Of course. It's just amazing especially thinking of the time period it was build in. Double buttresses are way better in person, just f.y.i.Then we got a coffee near Bertie's Cupcakes... little did we know...We then meandered around the area and found some maps of Paris so that we could survive, and we found some patches so Kai and I could begin our patch collection! (Liz is a veteran of patch collecting, boasting Nepal, Brazil, and her home town Minneapolis and more!)Her backpack there has been all those places too!We walked all along the river to the front of the Louvre and checked out the Pyramid entrance way, and then we walked all the way to the catacombs! At this point, we are probably talking 3-5 miles at least..
Then, we found the street which should be named The Street of Crepes, but it is not named this, so we didn't notice how many creperies were on this street until we walked out of the creperie we had eaten at and then we saw 20+ crepe places! Viola, crepes for evareeboodiieee!Having no desire to spend more money and in need of a rest, we went into a little church and enjoyed the solitude and quiet, reading a bit of Pema and dozing off....We were then kicked out of said church.. can they do that?! sheesh!So we meandered in circles of hunger delirium until we decided to go to that place Kai had suggested in the first place, teehee, and it was FANTABULOUS. I had a steak, Nick had duck I think, and Liz had the squid. The waiter was really nice and was teaching Liz a few things about French dinning.Saturday:
Cafe Lomi---BEST BEST BEST BEST BEST COFFEE OF THE TRIP. Amazing. Quiche, chicken salad, and soups. Viola! Belle!
We will miss you.Versailles---A bit of a rough one getting here but it was worth it for sure...
I can't believe people lived here! Kai realized why there was a revolution.Eiffel-finally we made our way to the famous symbol of Parieee. It is impressive. I can't imagine Paris without it. Truly one of the most eye catching things. One really big elegant looking tower!
Tibetan Cafe---You know you will enjoy a place when: A signed picture of the Dali Lama is on the wall and its warm inside and pouring rain like its never rained before outside.When we went inside, we knew we had made a good choice. This place was delicious. We even had Tibetan desserts! I had a yummy warm carrot and yogurt dessert which was very different but really yummy!
Sunday:
This was a day to rival most days:
Louvre-ABSOLUTLEY ONE OF THE MOST IMPRESSIVELY HUGE MUSEUMS EVER.More amazed by taking a picture of the Venus de Millo than actually seeing it and taking it in... Ah, Cupid revives Persephone Degas. Stop it. Degas. I would love to ride a Turtle! I just related to this one in some way. Champs Elysee, Arc de Triomphe---totally beautiful.
When you think of a Park in Paris, that is exactly what this walk was like.
Cafeotheque-funky café with a plant wall (I WAS IN LOVE) and reclaimed wooded tables, chair pillows made out of coffee sacks, and many other little things that I loved.
(Coffee was O.K., good tea though! Almost never disappointed by tea, especially in Paris!)Shakespeare and Co. -- Such a unique experience, kind of like Derby Sq. Books, but 100% better, artsier, more organized, older, more unique and more of a history. This place had little nooks and cranny's to curl into, windows over looking the river, upstairs, downstairs, old signs, a book worms paradise. This is where Kai and I found "Just Kids" but Patti Smith! I've been reading it ever since! And learning a thing or two about the generation I wish I had lived through. (60-70's).We wound our way through the quaint Latin quarter, famous for its yummy shops and such, especially the most amazing cupcake place! Bertie's Cupcakes!! The owner, form the U.S., had only opened the place about 8 months ago and was a one woman cupcake master!The best cupcake I have ever had.(Sorry Johnny-o! (she did not have red velvet though, so there ya go! )Then we found macaroons just because we were in Paris, but having just eaten cupcakes we decided to save them... keep this in mind.
To have a few moments to ourselves, Liz went back to Shakespeare & Co. and Nick and I grabbed some tea. I drew, we talked, Liz read. When we met back up, we saw a rainbow over the Notre Dame and then the most gorgeous sunset. Blissful world this is.After a nice dinner, we traipsed all over looking for Eiffel tower again, (aka got off at the wrong metro stop.) However, this was fate because when we finally got to the tower it was glittering again, on the night we were last in Paris. (It only glitters for 5 minuets every night!)Monday:
And then we hit Budapest runnin!We caught the metro within a minuet, and made it to our flight no problems. (ok, we ran to the train station but w.e....)As soon as we got off the plane it was culture head on into culture shock. This is what I was looking forward too. In the airport it was not so bad, signs in English and Hungarian, but as soon as we were dealing with coins of 100 Forint and bills with more than 000 at the end we were confused. We made the bus into the city, and were instantly shocked at the difference in architecture, and especially the old trains on the metro.After finding our hostel....(which we LOVED!) (After the floor for 4 nights, even an Ikea mattress (which was nice) is a huge excitement.) (Come to think of it, a shower is nice too! ;)...Our host gave us the lowdown on the sights and must-do's of Budapest. Then we headed out for some coffee and recovery meal. I had the goulash. So yummy! The prices for the portion size was great!!! Then we opened our bags to get out our macaroons for a deserved snack, they were not really macaroons anymore... haha they had become very flat mushy colorful things... oh well! Lesson learned haha! Macaroons do not travel well. Especially by backpack...That evening we met people from the hostel and we played some games and hung out in Budapest!Tuesday:
Kai and I were excited for a kitchen again so for breakfast we made eggs and bacon! Yum! With bellies full, we decided to get acquainted with the city. We went out on a walking tour. It was filled with interesting facts, a bit of history which we had been wondering about and lots of beautiful sights. The tour guide was really nice and loved her job! She pointed out one of her favorite places to get pastries and coffee and it was really yummy!St. Mattias Church (Hungarian tiles-very famous for their lasting colors.) The Parliament through the arches at the Bastion The Chain Bridge Buskers as Fisherman's Bastion Dancin' in the moonlight After pastries, we walked around the Fisherman's Bastion and took in the gorgeous views and it was all the more beautiful for the soprano sax and guitar.Liz and I danced of course, and the buskers we were happy. (I feel like I just stole a line from The Giving Tree.)Then we headed back to the Hostel and met three Danish guys who would become our buddies while in Budapest. We instantly took a liking to one another and our groups melded well.We went out to this really cool place that was an abandoned building after the communist era and it was totally indie. They are called ruin bars and they are all around the city. Another reminder of Budapest's history. We played fusball and Kai and I beat two of the Danish guys! Woo! (always the competitive spirit!) It was a very nice night, good conversation and fun.Wednesday:
We headed to the House of Terror which was really well done. It was kind of intense, but eye opening. It was all in Hungarian so we got the audio guide and read along with the handouts.
Then we went Caving! Because of the extensive network of thermal water beneath Budapest, it is not only the city of Baths but it is also the city of caves! There are something like 200 caves in Budapest. We had such a blast in the caves. There were tight spaces, and cavernous spaces, and because its limestone, there were inverted bubble like forms on the ceiling, not stalagmites, which I thought was cool! There were also fossils, shells and other cool things. A similar inland sea covered Budapest much like how the south-west of the U.S. was covered back in geologic history.
Then we had a community dinner back at the hostel and it was so yummy! A traditional Hungarian stew type thing with yummy sausage, potato and spicy paprika, Budapest's famous spice! After we decided to take it easy and we watched Apocalypse Now which I thought was a lot like Heart of Darkness, which turned out to be true!Thursday:
We found lots of gifts in Budapest. It had lots of artisans who were not one of twenty on the same street, and prices were really great compared to somewhere like Paris! We also went to the central market which was quite a site! It was huge and smelled divine!After a day in the caves, coming out battered and bruised, we decided that the thermal spas was just what we needed! It was just amazing. They went on and on! Different temperatures, mineral content, sauna, stem room, and on and on. It was really wild. Especially the outdoor pool. It was SO COLD OUT and we were walking so fast between the inner and outer pools but the sensation is so nice when you get in and the steam is rising off the water. So relaxing. There were a group of Hungarians playing chess in the pools too, which we thought was funny. Something you would see in a park in NYC you see in a hot tub in Budapest....Friday:
We found "The World Most Beautiful Café" which was New York Café. It was certainly beautiful inside and it was yummy, but I think that a café doesn't have to be gold and all done up to be the most beautiful. Desserts were delicious though!Then, we walked around just enjoying the city. We found an outdoor market and I found the most adorable elf like wool hat. Its too cute! :D It would have been 3 or 4 times the price back home!We saw the memorial of shoes along the river, which was really powerful. It is where jews were executed by shooting into the river Danue.We then saw the amazingly beautiful Parliament building.
And we didn't go to the soccer game because it was closed to spectators.... too dangerous because of the political rivalry. Aww mannnn. We really wanted to see it.Saturday:
Flea market-I found an amazing probably hand made embroidered piece for 700 forint.(the ones at the central market of comparable size and motif were 6000-7000 or more.) (thats $3.00 vs. $30.00!!)Then we found this amazing tea house! The door had a small bronze plaque, which was the only signage. You walked down about 8 steps and were greeted by an Indian Prayer and a little statue, and then two beutiful women working the counter.We were directed to the right and took off our shoes, and then we crawled up a ladder, and around the central hole and curled up in a little nook by the window! I felt like I was in Alice in wonder land a bit, maybe at a tea party in a tree.Here is the ladder you climb up, and you can either go to the right or left. Then, we ordered amazing teas and they bring it to you on a basket tray. The tea was served in little bowls which fit perfectly in your hand and had a namaste symbol on them. One of the funniest things on the menu was the "delicious biscuits" "some what delicious biscuits" and the "not delicious at all biscuits." Too funny.Then we had our last Budapest dinner out with our Danish friends, and then, Kai and I went to a spa party, or as the Hungarians call it, a Sparty. It was essentially a club but in one of the spas! It was in the courtyard of the spa so it was really cool. A DJ played music and there were lights and such of course. Definitely a European experience. We headed back to the Hostel and hung out with our new friends until the wee hours of the night and were quite sad when we finally said goodbye and goodnight.Sunday in nutshell:
Train to Debrecen. *stress*
Taxi to Airport. Liz restrained herself from screaming, FASTER!!!!! But the driver was really nice, and he was so fascinated with the fact that we were flying! He chuckled at that.
Flight to Milan
Train from airport to Train station.
SuperNick busts through the train doors. And I quote, "There is no fucking way I'm missing this train!!!" hahaha by the end of a day of travel, anyone can turn into a Hulk so they don't miss a train!
Girls have a random crying episode/"winston moment" as we now call it. (sorry Nick, we had done so well till this point). haha it was needed. After so much emotional, artistic, and cultural input, there has to be some output! It felt good!Train back home to Florence!Since then, we have readjusted and reacclimatized to Florentine life and more posts about that is coming soon.Ciao for now!Love,--Wren
- Mar 17, 13
Paris. A city that seems to be unwelcoming perhaps, maybe just a but cold, but I am falling in love with it. Any city will have the tourist traps and the places you just know are a rip off, but seeking out those one in a million places will make the experience worth it. That is exactly how our Paris
ladventure has been, finding the most perfect little places despite rain, altered plans or lines.After exploring the Notre Dame and amazing pastries for breakfast, we began to orient ourselves in the city. We made sure we had internet resources saved to out phones and maps in ready so we could find all the places we wanted to try. After wandering a bit, we stopped and purchased some amazing watercolors from a woman who was so sweet. A student of art, she made sure all the pieces we selected were signed and we promised to look her up online when she puts her website up. The first place was a little crepêrie which was on what must have called "the street of crepês." It was delicious, and being fed and full of this typical French dish was really nice.
We then headed off to wait in line to see the Catacombs. A bizzare experience, it is an old quarry which was eventually ised as a type of cemetery when the ones above became full. Stacking the bones femer-tibia-femer-tibia and then artistically placing the skulls in various positions was one of the most bizzare sights. You could feel the heaft of the place. Finally, walking up thw 85 steps of the spiral staircase was very releaving.
Next, we wandered a bit, found a quick café for a pick me up an wifi and then headed toward dinner. We found the place we were looking for and after deliberating, went in and had an amazing dinner. I had rump steak, Kai had the duck (amazziinngg!) and Erin Elizabeth had squid with jasmine rice. We shared the most delicous dessert of berries with whipped cream in a crunchy crêpe shell. Very light but perfect!
So finished day 1!
This morning, we headed to a café which promised latté art and it did not fail to deliver. Not just the cappuccino's were fantastic, but the food was so so good. I had a vegetable quiché and it came with a side of veggie/quinoa and a spinach mix salad. I also had a delicious pot of yellow flower oolong tea. So so perfect. The atmosphere was great, and the people were super nice.
Then, we headed to Versaille! After switching trains, and then finally makin it to the RER section trains, we were walkig towards the huge, golden ornate building at the end of a wide tree linned street.
With only about two hours, we made it through all the major sites. I think it was perfect since the weather was cold and overcast, and really spending a whole day would have been too much.
Then we headed back to the center of town (haha, can't really say that about Paris...) but we did indeed and we stopped at the Eiffel Tower! It truly was as amazing as it seems and pictures don't do it justice. Hungry enough by then we wandered some quaint back streets with lots of ethnic foods in the 5th arroudissment. We decided to try a little Tibetan restaurant and had the most calming meal after a more hectic day. It had authentic food, good price and the coolest atmosphere. Seated near the signed portrait of the Dali Lama, we warmed up and soaked it all in.
I will continue my love story with Paris tomorrow.. At the louvre!
-Wren
- Mar 13, 13
Cooking, Drawing, Traveling!
Well, I thought I would send out a blog post before heading out on our spring break trip tomorrow evening! We will be taking a train to Pisa and flying to Paris! Four days will be spent in Paris and then, we will be heading out to Budapest! This will be quite a trip. I've been brain-storming and sending videos back and forth to Erin who is going to be coming with us. The three of us will be great travel buddies. We are going to only bring one backpack and I can't wait to show you all the pictures and drawings that I will do of our travels! I have been drawing a lot lately, and dare I say it.. New sketch books. I got some that have toned pages and which are 100% recycled. They are thin, light and easy to carry so they will be ideal for traveling. I'll be using my iphone while we travel so you will get to see lots more snap shots.I can't begin to tell you how excited I am! I am going to go print out our boarding passes, buy a map of Italy for our generous host while in Paris and I am going to squeak out for a run at the gym for an hour or so (probably bike run then some yoga! I have to work on some projects too for school before getting lost in the spring break abyss! What a day this will be!I also just got back from meeting my Chat Pal. It was a great experience so far. The woman I have been paired with is a really nice young interior designer. Her name is Alessandra, and she was born in Florence and lives here. She said that Budapest is amazing. She is buying a house too! How exciting. It really made me realize how much I need to work on my Italian! I don't want to be one of those American's who just never learns Italian while I am here. I will practice so I will be better the next time, but I am not sure if I will get more confused because of French and Hungarian.. Apparently Hungarian is so different that I probably won't even bother trying to learn it, I will just use it enough to get by of course. I am thankful for that phrase book! :)I am off to go do all of that but before I do...I was thinking after lots of people have been commenting on our food and cooking skills, and even trying to hire us as their personal chefs when we return home, that maybe creating a new blog dedicated to food would be helpful, but why not just add it here? It's totally part of our Italian experience, and our experience of building our lives together and how we work together as a couple together.Some of our favorites are curry, stir fry, sausage and eggs for breakfast, which I have perfected the best scrambled eggs ever, yummy salads, fresh juice called spremuta and pasta dishes (gluten free for me).Here are some snap shots (if you hadn't seen them already) from our kitchen!This is a gluten free, dairy approved chicken broccoli alfredo! So yummy!! Almond milk and goat cheese!This is my perfected scrambled egg on toast with smoked salmon, sausage and mushrooms & tomatoes pan cooked! Perfetto!!I was proud of that plate!Yummy coconut curry!amazing painted lettuce (bitter flavor though)Insalata con avocato, pomodoro, noci e other yummy things!Organic Market PurchasesKaleSweetsLook at that handsome chef!chop-chop-chopin!Zuppa Toscana di FagioliPomodoro Bellodulce!Apple Sauce! (de mele!)InsalataPoached egg con pesto e patata con rosmarioNick's SauceBuon Appetito!Pane con OlivoFestivale de CioccolateTacos!Molto CioccolateYam pancakesCafé de pommerigioStir fry ingredients!Stir fry! - Mar 02, 13
Beautiful Sunshiney Day
Today I slept in and then decided to go walk around and just simply enjoy and explore the place I am living in. I went to Piazza Santa Croce and was going to go in, but didn't want to bother talking to the ticket people, so I enjoyed the sight from the sunny square. A wonderful trio was playing who is often in Florence.And then, an hour later after poking around a vintage shop called "Melrose Vintage" where the guys hair was still as frizzy as it was in the 70's and the other guy looked like a Beatles wanna be, playing along to "while my guitar gently weeps", I walked back towards the river, stopping in Pazza De Repubilca, only to find the trio again! How peculiar!Here are some pictures as of late:Janis Joplin Tribute Band at Jazz Club An alley way I have always looked down, yet never walked. Home at last after a day at the spa. (Im going to have to appologize for a complete lack of pictures from the spa, but water and I phones don't mix & I was in such a state of relaxation that I couldn't take pictures anyway.Simple Florence buildings, yet they are still so beautiful. At Piazza de Santa Croce Candle tree in the DuomoThe DuomoOculus of the DuomoJust the perfect sunshine. That is the Ponte Vecchio way in the distance with all those people's heads. - Mar 02, 13
Wrapping up the last of the colder months!
(Man, that feels GREAT to say.)
In a time of total uplift for Italy (have you heard the Pope resigned, the elections yielded nothing, and their economy is struggling to say the least), I am feeling full of artistic inspiration, cooking prowess, fashionista-competence, and cultural pleasure, all wrapped up in a new outlook on my life. WOW.And to think I was sitting here having the time of my life with no worries, no change, just the "going along with the ride" kind of attitude. Little did I know I was whispering the words to open all those little locks on that door from Lord of the Rings. Something was there that I couldn't quite see, couldn't quite identify. That place inside us that which is always there, (as Pema says), was whispering something and we just need to get quiet and focus on that; being ok with not knowing.
I was left out of the loop on this one, although I did feel here and there feelings of "something more must be happening..." but the "wait and see" voice was there to calmly reassure me. I also think of Helene often too, reminding me that, if it seems too good to be true, just go with it, and given time, you'll have another wall to figure out.Well, now at the end of this cold month, the birds are singing much louder every morning, and I am more often awoken by sunshine peeking from behind the shutters. I am VERY PROUD to say that not only have I worked out THREE days in a row, but that I have gone a total 13.4 miles while I have been here!! Lets convert that into kilometers to show not only my European spirit, but a higher number... 21.5k! (and I am just truly proud, and not ashamed like usual to say so, because before I could hardly get motivated to do more than once or twice a week, then two weeks nothing etc.) THIS IS BIG FOR ME.Yeaahhhhh!! And not only that, but I did 3.8 miles today, and I felt great.
Where did this motivation come from you ask?? Well, Kai made an amazing point the other day. He said, "Do you think because you used to run everyday in high school you could eat pretty much anything? And now your metabolism has probably slowed down and is reacting to foods more because you don't run any more?" HE JUST TURNED ON A HUGE LIGHTBULB.Wow. And that was the motivator.Right on schedule, my mom sends me an article about chi running. And viola. Enough to push those old restrictions out the door!And to keep me reminded, I've set my background on my computer, phone and facebook page to this:You see, before I have always thought, I don't have a reason to work out because I am thin enough, feel good enough, etc. etc. but running (and any exercise) is potent enough to have major effects on the body. Especially prolonged and sustained workout routines. Moving into my 20's makes me feel like I am setting the scene for my life: Scene: beautiful Italian apartment, girl who is 21, studying art and making amazing food with her boyfriend... little does she know in just 12 years time she will be [insert whatever disastrous lame life plot you want here].Nuh-UH!! No way for me. I feel like I want to get those habits down now while I am still malleable and creating who I am. (not that i really believe that our lives dry up or that we become immutable, just that I see that a body needs to be used if it is going to stay functioning well. Which I want mine to. I love being healthy and i love the way running feels and the after effect too, so why do I resist? And yada, yada, yada, old stories forgotten, new goal to achieve!!) And with the inspiration of a dream journal from galadarling.com, I have created three months worth of charts for me to chart, comment, plan and visualize my workouts. (and many other motivational did-bits to look back at and continue adding!)Needless to say, I'm in a good place. And using map my run has been great to track exactly how far I've been going. And, in the future, it will show my progress over time! Yay!And the best reward to starting this challenge this week? SPA DAY INCLUDED IN OUR SAI PROGRAM. Its gonna be legend..... wait for it... DARY!!! Want to see where we are going and some comments on the place from Girl In Florence? Click here! The one we are going to is called Antica Querciolaia Thermal Baths (I can't wait to post pictures and feedback from that!!)On another note... one of creativity... I am finally getting my "hand" back. With the practice I've gained from Florence Sketchbook, I'm starting to feel my understanding of form and drawing getting better again. Just like running, this art is something we can lose quickly!
That is to say, I've realized:- I never should have stopped going to acorn. So so so bad for my art. Really? something you are and you quit?? (ah ha moment--Seee? that voice!! That one is the bad one. buh-by!! lets try that again....
- I can't wait to go back to acorn!! I've realized that I really miss formal drawing and understanding form and creating beautiful works of art. (thats better. ahhh. =] )
- It is much easier to want to do art when it is literally every where you turn. From our apartment, to the building across the street to the street stones themselves, we are surrounded here by renaissance art. It feels mostly like we were dropped into this city from the past.
And here is the ink watercolor I've been working on.. Still in progress:Now all those vendors with the amazing water color paintings are looking much more accessible than before!Well, I'm feeling the need to go and draw now so I can't deny that!!Ciao, tutti!!Buona Sera! (or Buona giornata, what ever may be true for you right now. :) - Feb 22, 13
Maybe too much, but maybe not enough. Who knows. Enjoy!
Walking/hiking up the hills around Florence. Too beautiful for words really. Hiking the hills of Florence Hiking the hills of Florence A tall cypress from an ants view. Hiking the hills of Florence Hiking the hills of Florence Hiking the hills of Florence with Erin Elizabeth and Katie Hiking the hills of Florence with Erin Elizabeth and Katie A stone wall as old as the earth Is there anything more picturesque??? (no trees on the sides. ) Hiking the hills of Florence Olive Trees Hiking the hills of Florence Hiking the hills of Florence -- More Olive trees! Church on the way to the beautiful sights; many famous/important people buried here; presidents etc. Firenze! Katie, Erin Elizabeth & I Hiking the hills of Florence View from a Library Café Love! How to make yourself and your woman happy. Another meal by Le Chef Ereen; stir fry! (complete with bamboo shoots!) "In the rose of the world, the petals of art." Creativity at its best. Journal, sketchbook and reading. + yummy candle = happy. =] The Isoloto at Boboli Gardens The Isoloto at Boboli Gardens The Medici had a thing for capricorns you know =] that goat is a capricorn symbol! He has a fish tail and scales. Money on the wall! (Pink Floyd-esk, no?) just hangin out eatin muh grainz. Graphic works. Henna by Erin Elizabeth I swear they were the ears of the wall. (walking up to park of Michelangelo. ) Some one has a sense of humor. Box it up and sail with it in your suitcase. Marzipan Marzipan Marzipan! In the act of Creation. Fly! Chocolate salute! View from Park of Michelangelo Entry way shadows all chocolate. Another vantage point from Park of Michelangelo. Mischievous. Holly working on a print of my actually, there in the corner! how cool! At the Duomo =] Duomo Giardin de Boboli Neptune at Boboli Steep and perfectly straight! Boboli Gardens Spirit Cornucopia! Cold, wet, none the less beautiful. Boboli Gardens. - Feb 21, 13
I apologize for the lack of pictures on the blog, it takes so long for them to load on our internet at the apartment so facebook is a good place to look for pictures! I will do my best though =] - Feb 21, 13
In the rose of the world...
I am feeling the need to grasp the events as they come.
This life only happens once. Follow the heart, and the head will be happy. I think this is how life works.
I am still finding myself feeling like this life is just too good to be true. This is a good thing though, as the song playing from Kai's computer keeps telling me. (Check it out here.)
There is a lot going on. A lot that I feel like I can't miss. I am going to be going to the Opera (in ten minuets) to see MADAME BUTTERFLY! A classic Italian Opera, (crash course here) and I can't help but ask, is this real? There is a free tap and piano show at the museum of natural history on sunday at 11, in the Zoo Room. Too perfect from Midnight in Paris it sounds like. And there is a dance festival where you can go and take lessons, and movies, and cafés and art to make and so so so much art to see. Dali, Marilyn, Bob Dylan's paintings in MILAN and not to mention, oh idk the Ufizzi, the Medici everything and so so so much more. Needless to say, I am working on quite the check list. But you will see it all don't worry. =] I will write more...
But back to my bafflement....
Did I really find a vegan/vegetarian cafe, with soy cappuccino's and Kitchri and an amazing court yard and back room lined with books, and its incredibly artsy? Yes. I did. And I am going to see Madame Butterfly in Florence. Italy. Yes. You are. And you are wearing amazing shoes? (heels that feel like sneakers.. yup. and they look as good too!! see pic. above. No worries they were on sale!! Less than I would pay for them back home. =] and am I eating amazing food made by the love of my life? yup. and have you found great people to hang with? yes, that too. And are you making plans to travel around Europe? yes. And am I loved by amazing people all around this world? yes! and I am so thankful for each and every single one!!
So much gratitude for everything that this world has given me. Every moment is an opportunity, and I am damn thankful that I learned how to take those opportunities early on.
more in the morning! (afternoon?) who knows for you, la matina (the morning) per me. =]-Wren
- Feb 16, 13
I am so happy to have found a few girls here who are so amazingly loving and sing in the street with me. Harmonizing, making up our own tune. Pure fun. Pure life!! Alex-"where do you want to be in ten years?" Holly-"right here!!!" Me-"yes! Moment by moment."
We found a little place that has live music, a bunch of americans but good mix of both, and a great vibe. And right around the corner from my apartment. Its called Gallery and has lots of art and a comfy couch room and lots of other young happy people swaying & singing along! I love having girlfriends to hang within the city, i have never felt this before. City living! It feels like the beginning of my adult hood!!! Florence is continuing to blossom.
This morning, im going on a "hike" up on the Oltrarno of the city to see some views and such. It will be a great way to get the blood flowig before a homework/art day!!
-love you all!!
----wren - Feb 08, 13
No, not homesick, just honeymoon fade-out.
I have to say, the first two weeks were a whirl wind, the first few days filled with squealing and smiles. Despite rain, cold or hail, we were out exploring the beautiful city around us. The smiles remain, but the squealing is more of deep breaths to take in the beauty now. Its still unbelievable.
These are two pictures of Kai from our weekend in the Italian country side; I will post all the pictures on my photo page. =]Now, we are still exploring this rich city, its blossom only beginning to peek out of its bright green, protective outer layers, but the so called "honeymoon" phase has passed. The fact that our time here is going to fly by is sinking into my bones, perhaps in a kind of sadness, but more of an incessant whisper in my soul that says "don't miss this" "take this opportunity" "ADVENTURE". The form this might take I don't know, but I am letting my art flow our of me through pure, unabated motions, following my hand rather than my mind. Following my heart, rather than my head.I feel like I am missing things, like I should have a book about this place, with a list which I could start to cross things off of. Cafés, museums, statues, buildings, people, everything is just surface to me. I see the stones, I see the sculptures, but I don't know their stories. I want to know the stories of this place. I want the history to take shape to me.I think that is my next step. Now that the pure excitement is receding to this more explorative, place of depth not only for the city, but that also within myself, with my art. I have found some amazing blogs of other students who have lived in florence, or other americans who have lived here and have great advice. I found this one called, Girl in Florence, which I think I can relate to quite well. While Kai isn't truly Italian per-say, he is at heart. I found one of her posts with all of these amazing café's in libraries, so I think I am going to start there! What an amazing concept! I will go and read what I can about this city over a cup of tea!If there was one thing I most want to share is how thankful I am that:1. I have Kai here with me; truly your home is where your heart is.2. I have already made some amazing friends here who are more than I could have asked for3. I AM LIVING IN FLORENCE. Enough said.4. I am doing art all day, or whenever! And it feels so right.5. I found a tea shop.There are so many things, but those are just some. I also got some daffodils for €1.50 the other day, aren't they perdy!? And I've almost burned out the Sicilian Orange candle (which is no exaggeration, the oranges are THE BEST here!)Oh! AANNDD one big thing I discovered yesterday, L'Erbolario Lodi! Which means that I found a shop that has not only nice soaps, and lotions, (including my favorite Weleda brand!!) but they have supplements, A GLUTEN FREE SECTION, and soy milk, organic things, tea, EVERYTHING!! I have to say, I rather gave up on trying to find things that were gluten free and such; I assumed that no one in Italy would bother with gluten free because, well, they're Italian, BUT man was I wrong!! I came across spelt organic bread at the supermarket, and found out you can get soy milk at some café's and now found this place!! I ran out of my echineacea and have gotten a bit of a cold now, so that was the last supplement I would want to run out of at that moment, and on a whim after walking past this store MANY times, I told Nick I would catch up with him for lunch back home. (A 5 min. walk peeps no worries!!!) And the lady was so helpful, and was able to suggest the perfect tea for sinus clogging. hehe. =] Needless to say, when I crave a brioche, I have gluten free alternatives!! SO HAPPY. And such a pretty bag! =]Just another proof of the fact that we should never give up on who we are, and never judge or assume we are wrong or shouldn't bother. You will end up sick in some way. Point taken. I think I'm one of those who needs to learn things, uh, over and over. :)Any who, Check out more pictures on the picture page!!-Love, Er - Jan 25, 13
After a week of damp days, Nick and I have started orientation and get togethers via our SAI leaders. This program has begun to give us some more structured socialization, where we can meet people have gone to FUA through SAI as well. We have been chatting about with people and walked around a bit with some people today which was really nice!
Everything is dripping with art, with heart, with love, with a sense of "sprezzatura" as Dr. Elia would say. Sprezzatura is a word invented by Castiglione in The Book of the Courtier.
The "honeymoon" phase of the trip is wearing off, but I think I am still feeling very happy and comfortable, considering I've been throwing around things like "our butcher" and "our house" and such. I am in love with this city. I know that going back is going to be the hard part. The only thing thats driving me insane about Italy is the clothes driers...
I have tried to dry towels on the drying rack over night and forget it. They would never dry. the heater in the bathroom is like a rack for drying things so I have them drying there now, but one by one. I am thinking of just going to the laundromat next time; either pay there or pay utilities so for the ease of it I might do that.
Its just incredibly beautiful here.
This means that one does everything that may have taken years to master, with ease. They make what they do look easy, and with a certain style of nonchalance, so if one who tries to imitate tries to do it in the same way, will look a fool trying to do so.
This is very Italian. Everyone here grows up upholding the ideal of "bella figura" meaning that first impressions and looking great is of utmost importance. To always hold your reputation as most important. Enjoy your glass of wine, not your bottle of wine while walking down the street, no?
Its a beautiful, peaceful place, all about the "dolce vita."
This morning we went to a Mixer with our SAI program and I won a gift card for an aperativo for two at Kitsch! It was one of those things where you go around asking people questions and you have to find someone for each different thing on your sheet. I came in 4th place =]
We are soon off on our way for another night of orientation get togethers, but this one if for our school, FUA.
Ciao!
-Erin - Jan 20, 13
Days go by like flies when ya' got jet lag.
Yesterday I turned to Nick and said, "What has it been, like four days?"Nope. Only two. Three now, but it truly feels like we have been here forever, yet only a speck of time. Thats the way life is here. This city is magical. The time is so effervescent. Its lifted like a mist... There is so little focus on time here. Of course, we must get up at a time, or be at work or class by a time, but life does not revolve around it, it isn't with in time like jello, its only a small part.I've decided this city if much like the stair cases at Hogwarts, always changing and moving. The streets are set up like a grid in some places, but not a perfect grid, so it seems with every turn yesterday we were coming upon a street we had already taken, or we went only half as far as we thought, as the street curves almost without your noticing. Its truly magical when you think you are on one side of the city, and then you walk back into the opposite side of the piazza you had just left...Lets just say its been a funny site to see Nick, who's sense of direction is typically not to be doubted, saying, for the fifth time, wait, ok, ok, i know what we did.. its like this... oh no, wait... as we walk into another part of town.I love it. I am just taking it all in, piece by piece, making a mental map, finding many markets, and admittedly gawking at all the beautiful people and food. This city is beautiful, even in the rain. I was offered probably 10 umbrellas last night, (because I was the only one left to sell to essentially) but it didn't mind the rain, it was beyond beautiful.Speaking of gawking and food.FOOD. Why doesn't food taste like this everywhere? I just don't understand. I know it has to do with the freshness, yes of course, but it must be something else. I think maybe its the heart, the soul? Perhaps its in the water, in the blood of the people here? But no, because even the food Nick and I have made has tasted like nothing else.. I'll get back to you if I have any updates on this front...But, now, I would like to discuss hot chocolate.Cioccolate in tazza con peperoncino. e cheese cake con fragola. Per favorre, gratzie!!This was my choice Yesterday at Hemingway's. (Thanks Christina! OMG AMAZING).Can I just say, why, why why is hot chocolate not like this at home? Its essentially melted chocolate, but its so perfect, its just, like I said, to die for.I truly understand why that saying is said.I have "died" so many times now. It keeps sneaking up on me, but I'm getting used to it now, like when we are walking down a tiny side street, and as I turn to my left, I'm nearly in the middle of a piazza, namely, Piazza Della Signora, which has the Uffizi on one side, and a replica David on the other. Can you imagine walking into that with out knowing it, and then turn to see those things? I had tears in my eyes. I died. I just died. I could sit down and just take this in, and be happy as happy can be. This place is overwhelmingly beautiful. I am in love. With the city.Of course, my heart is still racing when ordering things like,hot chocolate and cheese cake, but hey, im getting there!Wow. This life is truly dolce.love and light to you all! This is the experience of a life time.p.s. My horoscope according to the forecasts on the Italian news:My weekend will be spent with much time walking and solving financial and family issues, the past two years have been the same or not much change, and this year is time for a big change, and the first 6 months of this year will be better than the last 6. WELL ISN'T THAT JUST TOO FOR REAL.CIAO!! - Jan 18, 13
Il Primo Giorno Della Nostra Avventura!
First Day of our Adventure!
I have put all my little things around the apartment and feel right at home here! It was such a good nights sleep, and I'm thinking of doing some painting later perhaps...I feel inspired after seeing the artists out today, despite the cold. Although it was only about 50F.I did a quick sketch in my new sketch book from Christina of Nick on our street waiting for our keys!This is absolutely amazing. I keep saying "I just died" and after a while I started thinking, "why am I so morbid?" But I think what I mean is that every moment here is like a piece of something is falling away, my eyes are more open, maybe all I mean is that I am in heaven? It's an overwhelming feeling of beauty, perfection, love of the beauty of life, like I am just highly aware of the immenseness of this opportunity and the beauty of this place. Every corner and structure, every person, everything is just beautiful. I think it might be the jet lag in some cases, I mean I was gawking at the drain pipes with little flur de lei's on them.. but the patina is literally on everything.Ok, ok, maybe not the fridge or the sink or pots and pans we have, but it sure feels like this place has an antique feeling to it. I could drink it in. I can't wait for the spring to set in. It is supposed to be in the high 50's this week sometime.I was thinking of how this place has more character than I've ever seen any city before. More beauty. I have never seen a city so beautiful.Love,Erin - Jan 16, 13
At the Airport
We began our trip hungry; after deciding the best option to satisfy our hunger to be Sabarro's (we had anticipated better options, but what can ya do?), we are ready to head over to the terminal. Its a quiet night at the airport, it took us less that half an hour to get through all the logistics. Now the serch is on for an outlet to charge up my phone. No outlets available.. Hmm...
Well, oh well, who needs a phone anyway? I have a good book! And so begins the two hour wait for our flight! Till we land in Italia! Ciao!
--Erin
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Posts
- Feb 04, 12
I wake from a deep and refreshing slumber. It is early, but I can't place the time. If I had to guess I would say 7:30 because I can hear the sounds of my little brother, Bodhi, from down the hall. He too has risen and greeted the day, ready for the adventures that wait. I gently pull the covers off so as to not disturb Erin who is still sound asleep. I put my feet onto the chilly wood floor and reach down and grab my warm flannel pajamas and t-shirt. I dress and quietly walk out of our room and down the stairs.
Greeting Pops in the kitchen, I walk over the living room and look out the window. The ground is covered in snow and the light reflects brilliantly illuminating the day. Smiling to myself I turn and walk back to the kitchen. I pour myself a mug of hot coffee, glad that we have Atomic's very own blend, at the Bear Lodge house in New Hampshire. With some cream and sugar added, I hold a cup of perfection. Once more I walk back to the living room and settle on the couch.
The day continues and after breakfast I bundle up, ready to step out into the cold. The air is crisp, but I am warm. My toes wrapped in fuzzy socks, my hands protected by gloves and head retaining the heat I emit with a warm hat.
I help Pops shovel a path to the side porch so we can load up the racks on the porch with wood that is stored the shed. Life is simple and everything serves a purpose. We burn wood for warmth. I am not sure why, but I feel closer to the land, it seems this is how life should be. We are recessed from the hustle and bustle of life in a small town and it feels right. On the side of a hill our house is tucked away and the mountains, snowcapped, loom around us. Of course we have the amenities everyone else in this day in age has, but somehow up in the White Mountains life has a sense of simplicity and peacefulness.
After lunch and a drive through downtown North Conway, Erin and I took Gorda, the pup, for a walk through the snow. We donned snowshoes and headed up the hills, Gorda in tow. The air is clean and it feels good to fill my lungs and stretch the legs. No words are needed to convey feelings, we just smile and laugh together. It feels dreamlike, but I know this is real and what we share is indescribable, but we merge seamlessly into each other’s lives. Gorda feels it too and she is invigorated with life despite being long in the tooth.
The sun continues its trek across the sky. Time carries less meaning here, there is no need to rush anywhere. I feel present and just enjoying to be, be who I am and appreciate what is around me. Until the sun hides and the moon begins to shine, then it is time to settle down.
Flatbread calls, as does my stomach. Another day has passed and tomorrow comes another. It feels right to be here because life is good, sweet and full of meaning. You just need to open your eyes and see it. No matter where you are it is always there, allow the awareness to open and to accept things for the way they are and smile at the beauty.
〜Peace
- Feb 03, 12
Welcome everyone to my blog which is linked to my website (nickgilroy.com), how cool! Everything can be done on the go as well using my iPhone! I have no excuses to keep this going and updated all the time!
So to fill you all in because you are dying to know what's going on in my life since you are reading this post. I am going on another bike trip (we'll call it trip 2.0). I'm riding from Portland, Maine to Pebble Beach, California!
Wow! Right? Over 3,000 miles on the bike in one month. What a dream come true! The best part, I'm trying to get Erin to meet me at the end. Hang out, decompress from all that riding and spend some time with my beloved to the coast of Cali! Mmm sounds perfect.
Thats all for now, off to class
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America Through a Lens
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Photos
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Tweets
- Erin walking a Czechoslovakian Wolfdog! @ Rocca Grimalda http://t.co/kYYlCNxhwm
- Rocca. @ Rocca Grimalda http://t.co/BWilc92IkC
- Scenic vista from town, a half-hour walk from my grandparents villa. @ Rocca Grimalda http://t.co/6FlGhlL27C
- Walk from the villa to Rocca. @ Rocca Grimalda http://t.co/BnMv8CEA9J
- Ryder Hesjedal's spare bike looking resplendent in the rain. @ Longarone Fiere http://t.co/lYgrSnibcv
- Prior to being completely soaked there was a smile. @ Longarone Fiere http://t.co/mfaqbSK3KV
- Waiting in the rain. @ Longarone Fiere http://t.co/79ehHJTvi7
- In the rain. @ Longarone Fiere http://t.co/un3hMNcvEf
- Ryder Hesjedal before the stage start. @ Longarone Fiere http://t.co/W292nJjKEH
- Getting some yoga in before the giro. @ Longarone http://t.co/JtpQlVgEKy
- For you it's the Giro d'Italia for us it's the Giro of the bar. @ Diga del Vajont http://t.co/JsZwOw8MCe
- Hiking up to the finish. @ Diga del Vajont http://t.co/WhcFwGawaW
- It's a long way down. @ Diga del Vajont http://t.co/R50rQ6oOCE
- Some dude getting his slack-line on. Scared of heights? @ Diga del Vajont http://t.co/C0iou0y3ch
- Stage 11 finish line a couple hours before the pros roll in. @ Diga del Vajont http://t.co/AhdQ20k4jz
- Roadside cheering! @ Diga del Vajont http://t.co/vFC7EwdGjB
- Ramunas Navardauskas (Garmin-Sharp) on the way to winning stage 11. @ Diga del Vajont http://t.co/jcBIKo7zR9
- Busted. @ Diga del Vajont http://t.co/srPSbpTqpT
- Nibali and Cadel 900m to go! @ Diga del Vajont http://t.co/85RQ1RAb8w
- I talked to a local who said his nephew raced juniors cx in Louisville for worlds. @ Diga del Vajont http://t.co/9czMnXY1uK
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Videos
