As far as the soccer, or football match, goes, we enjoyed a rather exciting game between Turkey and Germany. Turkey dominated the game. We ended up leaving with about 15 minutes left, even though the score was tyed at one each. The TV's kept going out and our wooden benches were not comfortable, so we decided if it went into overtime, we could catch the end of it in our hotel after a gelato. The game was over by the time we got back to our room, so we just all assumed that Turkey was moving on to the finals. However I asked someone this morning and they said that Germany had won, 3-2. So, we missed a lot of excitment... oh well! Russia and Spain play tonight to see who will join Germany in the finals.
I began my morning with a stroll, and another walk to the fresh market, it always grabs my attention! I found a delicious orange juice, then met Angie for a doughnut and some shopping! We all meet up together and made an important stop at the grocery store for a loaf of bread. We went to San Marco's after that.
The long seemed incredibly long, but it moved very quickly. Italian churches always amaze me, no matter how many times I have stood in their glory. San Marco's is particulary unique. Inside the church is incredibly detailed, just beautiful. The ceiling and the domes are mosiacs, mainly made up of gold leaf; simply stunning. The floors, though warped from years of floods, are made of mosaics of marble with intricate designs. It is breathtaking to stand in the grandeur of cathedrals like this, and I don't even think this one compares to those in Florence and Rome.
We climbed some very steep steps in order to have a fantastic view of San Marco's square, Venice's center and most recognizable image. People and pigeons are scattered about the large square, trying not to melt in the heat.
Next, we went up the tower that is also in San Marco's Square. I had actually never been up the tower before and was delighted to see the views it provided. This tower did have an elevator, and because of the heat, I must admit, I was thankful it was not a lot of stairs to the top. The views were just breathtaking. I love the rooftops of Europe, those red-clay tiles and small streets make for a picturesque scene everywhere you go! We were able to look out and see Lido, along with most of Venice.
At noon, while we were at the top of the tour, the bells began to ring! At first, this giant bell just started swaying back and forth, then all of a sudden, a loud clanging noise! It was extremely loud, but a beautiful tone as well! We were thrilled to hear the bells chime from so close despite the possible loss of hearing.
After that, we decided it was time to feed the birds, and no, it did not cost two pence a bag! :) Angie had not fed the pigeons last time she was here and she was determined to do that. Em and I were also eager! We had brought the loaf of bread and were much more prepared than most of the other tourists around. I started, just by throwing a couple of pieces of bread on the ground and within seconds, I was surrounded! They were all over my arms, my hands, my feet, even my head and shoulders! I couldn't see my feet or my purse that was on the ground because of the pigeons. They tickled my toes as they searched for crumbs. 
Emily soon joined me as she couldn't stand missing out on the fun, but Angie was a bit hesitant.
Em was covered as soon as she held a piece of bread, but Angie only reached down to feed them as she was unsure about them landing on her!
Em was covered as soon as she held a piece of bread, but Angie only reached down to feed them as she was unsure about them landing on her!After our adventure with the pigeons, we, first washed our hands, and then enjoyed some delicious pizza and some more shopping. Shopping here is so much fun because all of the glass is just so beautiful and despite the fact that it is in every other shop, it is also unique!
I have been to Venice four times, but have never been on a gondola. I know... I think it was always because they were so expensive, and they are, but today, we decided it had to be done, and since we were doing it, why not do the longer tour!? We had a marvelous time in this old Venetian treasure, floating along quiet canals through Venice as our guide expertly manuevered us through the narrow passage ways. Sadly, he did not sing, but on a perfectly sunny day in Venice with some of your best friends, who needs the song?
(Notice our driver who trained for 2-3 years to drive a gondola is on the cell phone! :))
We head to Florence tomorrow! Hope you are having a great week! Also, please excuse any mis-spells you see! For some reason the spell check does not work here, and unfortunately I have come to rely on it!
3 comments:
I love reading your posts, Rebecca, and I've linked over to your friend's blog too. I know you're having so much fun, but I can't wait for you to come home so I can see tons of pictures and visit! Love you!
I think the guy is taking a picture....I wonder what of?
That pasta dish sounds yummy! if havent already told you, Italian food is one of my favs. Sort of... or way of subject, but I just harvested 3 cucumbers from my garden! I'm so proud of myself. I look at them in the fridge like evry 30 minutes. And my gosh! I have never seen so many pigeons. When we were in paris, there was a man outside of the lourve and he was feeding the birds. He gave a peice to me and my sister.. and i felt like I was the bird king. Although, there were not near as many birds as pigeons.
Rip
P.S. I got your postcard!
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