Making conversations with fellow Americans and receiving a hostel room-sharing invitation. (wrong city). Following arrows up steep stone steps and through narrow walkways. Emerging at the edge of cliff to the smell of salt water and a storm brewing over the mountain. Waves crashing into the rock. Clouds opening and dumping rain on us. Scrambling up the rock/cliff to seek shelter. Eating lunch in the doorway of someone’s apartment. Watching the rain form ripples on the sea.

Kitty-cat enjoying a lazing morning.

Katie at Manarola.

A perfect moment captured at the seaside.

A storm brewing.

Orange and lemon trees lining sidewalks and in every garden.

Spring unfolding through the Italian countryside – abundant blooming trees; green, green grass; and freshly tilled gardens. Watching from the train window as the sun set behind the mountains. “Down in the Valley” coming onto the ipod at the perfect moment.