
Today's inspiration comes from the fact that J is taking me to Italy in May. I've almost not thought about it until now, because I am so in disbelief that it might actually happen. This will be our first (non-kid) vacation alone - other than a few weekends away - since our honeymoon in 2000! I am SO ready.

In 1997, I spent the summer in Florence, learning art at
SACI (Studio Art Center International) on an exchange program through my school (
Pepperdine University). To be able to visit these streets, this amazing place that I loved and really came into my own as an artist is beyond my wildest dreams... and then to get to share it with the love of my life? I cannot wait.

Here are some of my precious precious photos from that summer. (Please forgive the fashion faux pas - I was talking to someone the other day who said my exact thoughts here, "It's a shame that the summer we were in Europe. overalls were in style - they've ruined all of my photos!")

This photo - other than the overalls - is so special to me - this was my favorite street to walk down in Florence - I'd go to a certain art supply store nearby, turn the corner and find my beloved Duomo staring down at me.