into the gardens.

today after class i met up with sarah and julianna and we grabbed a quick panino and decided to take advantage of a free afternoon and the sunshine in florence. so, what else would we do besides go to the bobeli gardens of course! to most what is considered a tourist attraction turned into an afternoon of pure bliss. the bobeli gardens are directly behind/ a part of the pitti palace where the medici family lived in florence. it was not until i was within the depths of the lush gardens that i realized how much i appreciated the exclusion from the crowded streets of the florentine city. birds singing and quiet footsteps replaced the clutter in my head consisting of homework, errands, chores, and responsibilities. i think it may be safe to say this is one of my favorite places in the city this far. looking up and seeing blue skies without the interference of buildings, green trees and soft ground, i was truly grateful for this moment of relaxation to reflect upon my surroundings, myself, and my day. deep breaths of crisp february air fill my lungs and the much appreciated sunshine kisses my skin--at this instant there is no other place i would rather be. julianna and i laid down on a bench and let the afternoon take us away. aka we took naps together while sarah was writing on the neighboring bench. one afternoon was was not nearly enough to capture all that the gardens had to offer. i could spend a whole day there and not even comprehend the hours passing me by. i am so thankful for God's creation of earth and the pure beauties i am fortunate enough to encounter.