Since we left Florence the kids have enjoyed a ride up to the old city of Montecatini via funicular.
Again gelato, great views and much walking. The following morning was for rest, swimming, laundry and expoloring Montecatini. At noon, we left for Arezzo - home of our guide Sara. She gave us the cook's tour and even helped me arrange for a cake for Elton's 18th birthday. You can understand our love for Sara when you hear that she had her mother pick-up and deliver to our bus. When we arrived in the village of Reggello, we enjoyed a picnic dinner that Yvonne, Kristin and Sara made. Rounds of pecorino cheese, fresh pomodores, Tuscan bread, veggies, local olives, fresh mozzerella, pesto. Molto bene! After dinner, we surprised Elton with the cake and even though the numbers were backward (Happy 81st B-day Elton!), Elton was touched.
The priest of the church - who spoke no English - beckoned me to follow him to the church museum, which despite it's location had the security of Fort Knox. Inside were rooms of wonderful original paintings from the 14th century as well as many icons from the church history. It was overwhelming and I asked "Possible per la studenti attendare" and he seemed to understand and said "Si, Si" and I brought them all inside. It turns out that this is a pilgrimage stop for art lovers and that several of the works here are sought by both the Uffizi and the Louvre. Wow! I later found out that parts of the church were built in 600AD!
Our concert was stunning - the best yet. There were about 150 people there, none who spoke any English, but all who appreciated the music and the kids. The would not stop clapping and again we had to leave while they cheered.
We arrived back at our hotel very late and again cancelled the wake up call. During the night another orchestra arrived - this one from King's College in Cambridge. While they were rehearsing this moring, I overheard their young conductor use bribery to get the rehearsing right - saying "hurry up and you may get a chance to see the American babes in the pool"
The hotel is making pizza for lunch and then we board the bus for the second trip to Florence and our final concert. Our trip is nearly completed and I must say it has exceeded all of our expectations by miles. Other than a few coughs, minor colds and tired feet, there have been absolutely no problems. The kids have been the best ambassadors for our city and families! I am so very proud of them.
After tonight, we get very little sleep, have our challenging hike tomorrow and the final night in our hotel. Jake and Tyler leave after the concert with their families who have already arrived. Steve and Kathy leave after this afternoon's rehearsal in the church. The bus ride back to Montecatini tonight after the final concert has been reffered to as the journey of sobbing as the kids all realize our adventure is winding down.
I may not be able to post again. I look forward to delivering these fabulous kids back to your care, but have treasured every moment with them. They are the best.
Ciao!
CC
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