In Florence I met the famous Leonardo da Vinci, probably the most famous combination of artist/scientist of all times, a true universal genius. And I found out that he was born some kilometers west of Florence, nearby the place I stayed. I guess the more than beautiful countryside of Tuscany had a great influence on his artistic skills. 
It's a strange feeling to stay in a medieval castle. I always tried to imagine life at this place some hundred years ago. It must have been nice, at least for the owner. The thing which impressed me most is the fact, that virtually every room, every patio and every staircase is unique in it's architecture. And the gardens are just the same. That's something I miss in architecture nowadays.
It was one of some unforgettable evenings. We were invited to taste the local wine of the Tenuta di Sticciano, a beautiful gem among the Tuscany wineyards. Beside the beautiful view and the delicious italian appetizers I can testify that the Chianti, Chianti Riserva and the Chardonnay are really delicious.
It was fascinating to watch the sky and the moving clouds over Florence, very impressive. It must have been inspiring to the famous painters some hundreds years ago, which are exhibited in the Galleria degli Uffizi in Florenz. Somehow it reminds me of their paintings...
Well, I'm back from Italy. It's such a great country with a rich history, a beautiful landscape, friendly people and great food and wines.
I don't know why it's so hard to buy clothings. Maybe there are too many options to choose from and the simple male mind cannot handle it. Today I stood in front of a tie rack with some hundred different colors and styles. After some hours of looking and thinking and again looking and thinking and moving around the rack every 10 minutes, I decided on one particular color. Now I had to make an apparently more easy decision between three equal good looking ties.
The NFL season has started, probably the best thing of autumn. This brings up memories of sweat, dirt, bruises and unbelievable euphoria. The harder and more exhausting the sport the higher the emotions.
Finally things changed and my blue Friday turned into a bright and happy one. I got very good news regarding my future. So my delight is even greater as if I would have got the news on a happy day. Now everything makes sense finally :-)
I can't believe it, the summer is already gone. It needs extra heating to sit outside in the late afternoon. I miss the days when the sunset was a welcome cool down from the heat of the day...