Nourishing My Soul

In one of the love letters that Ryan wrote to me for while I was in Italy (to enjoy before his arrival), he said, “. . .a new week begins, and with that comes your highly anticipated return to Florence.  I am so happy and excited for you, because I know how deeply you love being there, and I know how nourishing for your soul it is to be there.”  I read that, and then I stopped.  I reread it, and then I smiled.  My hubby knows me oh so well, and he is so very right.

cattedrale di santa maria del fiore

I can’t ever seem to quite put into words what it is about Florence and Tuscany that I love so much, because it is far more than the food, the wine, the rolling hills or the people – it is the feeling that I get when I am here.  And without a doubt, it is that feeling that completely nourishes my soul.

the ponte vecchio

I find myself feeling just a little bit different here. . .and in the best possible way.  I seem to adapt more of the, “things will get done when they do,” Italian mentality.  I am somehow immediately unbothered by crowds, by the overwhelming amount of tourists, or by the lady who stole my dryer time at the laundromat.  Yes, I am a different me here, and I completely love it.

just one of the many beautiful streets in florence

I somehow find myself being able to pack loads of things into my day; and far more things than I would even think possible.  In addition to doing the same amount of work that I do at home, I am also spending hours in school every morning, and then several other hours of the day walking around and exploring Florence.  There always seems to be the time to take time; and when there isn’t, well, that’s fine too.

the battistero di san giovanni

Each time I visit Florence, I come with an open heart and an open mind.  I feel ready to follow life wherever it takes me, and to enjoy the journey along the way.  And so by the time I say my goodbyes and wipe away my tears, my heart is filled with gratitude, and my soul is definitely nourished.  Maybe I can’t put into words why I feel this way, but I can sure as heck thank my hubby for helping to explain it to me.

2 Replies to “Nourishing My Soul”

  1. It brings me such joy to hear and see how much you love Tuscany! Your passion for this area is intoxicating, and it has been such a joy exploring it together with you!

    1. Awww, you are too sweet <3

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