Day 178

Where do I begin. I don't have words for Venice. Except, wow. The only time I remember feeling so overwhelmed by the HOLYSHTISTHISFORREAL?NESS of a place is the first time I saw New York City from a taxi on the way into Manhattan from JFK. It was love (and awe) at first site. Before today, Venice was just another box on a long check list. I guess I imagined it would be cheesier...Vegas-y even. But I have never seen more beautiful side streets and street signs and clotheslines in my life. Venice is magical and I want more. I will take my mom there one day. I've always wanted to take her to another country so she could fall as in love with the world as I am and I think if any place could sweep her off her feet, it would be Venice. I don't know if it's the cocktail of old colorful buildings and water and bridges but whatever it is, I was sold the second I stepped off the train. I always feel pretty lucky but today (and for the last 5 months, really) I feel so SO grateful, and satisfied. My feet are aching, my waistline is expanding before my eyes but my heart feels full and my buzz has nothing to do with the free wine from the charming waitstaff at the hole in the wall we closed down tonight. This is what life is all about to me. When I go back to a cubicle in October, it is only to for the chance to come back to these old buildings, crumbling arches, colorful facades and even colorful-er people. And to teach more Russians and Nuns on trains how to shuffle and play Bullshit. Mamma mia.