that's a wrap!

We returned to Venice in the morning and had the day to spend before we made our way to the hotel near the airport. We took a water taxi back to the Grand Canal and found out the Grand Canal was closed for the day. They were having a big boat race on the Grand Canal. We decided to grab some pizza and watch the race. It was really fun to see all the entries (most with matching outfits or costumes).

We joined the rest of the family at St. Mark's square and the kids had one last playdate with the pigeons.
The corn man was there selling corn kernels and those pigeons sure loved them! They would perch on anyone near to get some kernels. I was happy to be the cameraman.

I have to say, the pure joy and glee in the kids' eyes was really fun. They could've spent all day playing with the pigeons. But we said goodbye to Venice (and Italy) and went to our hotel to prepare for our very early flight home to Utah.

I did have one last Pera (pear) juice. I will surely miss those!

I have been asked what my "favorite part" of the trip was, and I really don't have an answer. We have had so many different experiences and been to so many different places, I truly have loved them all. I have found the Italian and Greek people to be very warm and inviting. We really did make some friends that I will miss. I have found SO many places to be just stunningly beautiful. I loved both the Greek and Italian foods. This has been a trip of a lifetime and I am grateful for the gift we were given of the cruise which started the whole journey.

The thing I will miss probably the most is spending uninterrupted time with my little family that I love. It was so fun to hang out together every day, sharing new experiences. That for me was priceless time that I am so glad we took.