A Train Trip

Well first of all, Claire and i went on an adventure on our last day together in Florence. We took the map and set out with a few goals in mind: find the park up the river, get cheap gelato, find the fort, walk past the Boboli Gardens, and wind around to end up at Piazzale Michelangelo. The sun was shining, sending sparkling reflections off the Arno River. People were out on their bikes or running along the river, everything was magnificent. As we walked toward the park, we past some Italian Military people who looked very official so we did not make eye contact or talk-we are so naive. The park was beautiful. We found a spot to sit by the river and reviewed the awesome ways that God had provided for us during our journey. We talked of life's meaning and our excitement and nervousness for the months to come. We stopped for gelato and then continued on to the fort. We found it, but only because we were terribly lost. Our map cut off just before we could see where the road turned and there were no road signs, so we just had no idea where we were. It was beautiful though. We looked so ridiculous wandering the Tuscan style homes with our lost looks and utter confusion. So, we turned around and made our way back so Claire would have time to get to class. We parted ways and I went up to the Piazzale Michelangelo to watch the sunset and say good bye to Florence. I could not believe how detailed the city looked from so far away. Besides the creeper who kept coming closer and closer to me, it was the perfect way to end my stay.
I boarded the train hoping that they would accept my ticket, because I was unable to meet with the information people to validate everything. I slept most of the way to Klagenfurt. God provided me with two very nice men in the compartment with me. I felt comfortable and was able to sleep. Also, I woke up an hour before my stop, so I was able to get ready to get off the train and didn't have to worry about missing my stop. I boarded the next train on the wrong end, so I pulled my suitcase all the way to the other end...I was exhausted by the end. My car was empty-all fifty some seats. It was peaceful. I watched the sun turn the sky to an emerald green, turquoise mix that outlined the mountains. The silhouettes were beautiful. Unfortunately I fell asleep and missed the actual sunrise, but I did see the beautiful snow covered mountains, frozen lakes, and quaint towns before my snooze. But I made it. Thank you Lord.