Over the next few days, Gerald and Kim walked the streets of Rome.  They visited the Colosseo and the Roman Forum.  They ate fresh coconut from a street vendor, rode one of the horse drawn carriages past the Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II.  They stumbled upon a museum of prisms. They admired the architecture throughout the city.  They avoided the fast driving cars that had no mercy or regard for pedestrians.  They laughed and giggled throughout the city. 

On Wednesday, it was known that Pope Benedict XVI held an audience at the Vatican.  They were fortunate to sit in the general audience and listen to Pope Benedict welcome people from around the world and also give blessings.  They bought religious items such as rosaries and medals for their friends.  They found a beautiful wooden crucifix with Jesus made in silver at one of the many religious stores that lined the street of Vatican city.  Gerald and Kim spent the rest of the afternoon in the basilica. They marveled at Bernini’s bronze baldacchino. They kissed the foot of St. Pete’s bronze statue. They prayed in each of the side chapels.  They were in awe of the many mosaics throughout the basilica that looked like oil paintings until you peered closer.  They spent quite awhile just looking at Michelangelo’s ‘Pieta’, finding his name etched on the sash on Mother Mary. It was the only piece of work he ever signed. They walked to the very top of the dome and took in the view of the Eternal City.  They giggled as they tried to step closer to listen to some of the tour guides.  They took the stairs down to the crypt where many of the popes were laid to rest.  Despite the eeriness to the situation, it was almost soothing to know that men of God rest in peace at the center of the Catholicism near St. Peter, the first Bishop of Rome. Gerald and Kim spent many hours in the Basilica of St. Peter. They took many pictures especially in the late afternoon as rays of light streamed into the church. It was a faith building moment for the both of them. When they left the basilica, they walked the columns of the Vatican and stood at the obelisk in the center of the piazza.  They took picture after picture. They took pictures of the Pope’s private army, guards which only single men from Switzerland could only serve, though more recently they’ve allowed Italians and French join . They watched the changing of the guards and loved the colorful uniforms designed by Michelangelo himself, as belief is said. Kim and Gerald loved their day at the Vatican.

Gerald: Babe, let’s go eat. You must be starving.

Kim: I am.  I didn’t even think about eating during the time we were in the Basilica.  I could stay there all day. You just feel a peace there.  Amazing isn’t it?  You know sometimes walking here in Rome, you feel almost unworthy to walk the streets where many Christians were persecuted for their faith.  I also wished I visited when Pope John Paul II was our Pope.  I use to watch when he would hold the World Youth Day events throughout the world. I wanted to go in 2000 during Jubilee Year.  That would have been amazing. There were millions of kids from all over the world celebrating and strengthening their faith with each other and with the Pope. 

Gerald: Hey I watched that too.  At that time, it never occurred to me to go.  I guess I wasn’t so in tune with my faith as I am today. Maybe we’ll go with our kids when they are teens. 

Kim: You and your thinking. You’re still on babies aren’t you? But I do think it is a great idea.

Gerald: (laughing)  Why not? Didn’t God tell Abraham to go forth and multiply?

Kim: Abraham but not Gerald.

Gerald: I look at it as our ministry.  You know the sacraments – well there’s the sacrament where you marry the one you love and there’s the one where you marry the church.  We married because we love each other. Part of our responsibility is to build a family in faith, right?

Kim: Right. (looking at Gerald with a smile)

Gerald: Well, we need to build a family to carry out our sacrament and raise children in the faith.

Kim: True. But it doesn’t say when.

Gerald: Seriously, are you ready?

Kim: Baby, I’m ready.  With you by my side, I’m ready.

Gerald hugged Kim as they walked out of the Piazza and went searching for a restaurant nearby for some pizza and wine.

Gerald: Do you think you are pregnant now?/

Kim: I don’t know babe because I’m suppose to be menstruating soon. Why am I talking about this with you?

Gerald: You can talk to me about anything.

Kim: Doesn’t sound romantic when you are on your honeymoon.

Gerald: It does when I think about making a baby with you. Don’t they say a woman is most fertile right after.

Kim: I think so. (looks up at him in surprise)  How do you know these things?

Gerald: I paid attention in ed. (smiling big)

Kim: (laughing) I know first hand that you must have received an ‘A+’ in that class.  Let’s go eat.

Gerald: (laughing) Are you telling me that you are giving me an ‘A+’? 

Kim: I’m not your ego.

Gerald whispered something to Kim, which made her giggle and hit Gerald. Gerald just laughed and pulled Kim under his arms. They  continued to walk the streets of Rome to become more familiar with the area and find things you could only stumble upon.  They decided to head towards the Trevi Fountain and have dinner there and people watch.  They loved hanging out there. The locals say that if you throw a coin over your left shoulder into the Trevi Fountain, you will return to Rome soon.  They both threw coins over their shoulders and made their wishes.  They picked up a gelato and hung out at the fountain for awhile before they returned to their hotel room.

Over the next few days, they continued to play tourists in Rome and even went shopping.  However, they were more interested in taking in the sights of the city such as the Pantheon,   They spent a lot of time especially in the Vatican Museum where they stood in silence in the Sistine Chapel where Michelangelo’s Last Judgment was painted on the altar wall and the scenes of Genesis on the ceiling.  Over the next few days, Gerald and Kim walked the streets of Rome.  They visited the Colosseo and the Roman Forum.  They ate fresh coconut from a street vendor, rode one of the horse drawn carriages past the Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II.  They stumbled upon a museum of prisms. They admired the architecture throughout the city.  They avoided the fast driving cars that had no mercy or regard for pedestrians.  They laughed and giggled throughout the city. 

On Wednesday, it was known that Pope Benedict XVI held an audience at the Vatican.  They were fortunate to sit in the general audience and listen to Pope Benedict welcome people from around the world and also give blessings.  They bought religious items such as rosaries and medals for their friends.  They found a beautiful wooden crucifix with Jesus made in silver at one of the many religious stores that lined the street of Vatican city.  Gerald and Kim spent the rest of the afternoon in the basilica. They marveled at Bernini’s bronze baldacchino. They kissed the foot of St. Pete’s bronze statue. They prayed in each of the side chapels.  They were in awe of the many mosaics throughout the basilica that looked like oil paintings until you peered closer.  They spent quite awhile just looking at Michelangelo’s ‘Pieta’, finding his name etched on the sash on Mother Mary. It was the only piece of work he ever signed. They walked to the very top of the dome and took in the view of the Eternal City.  They giggled as they tried to step closer to listen to some of the tour guides.  They took the stairs down to the crypt where many of the popes were laid to rest.  Despite the eeriness to the situation, it was almost soothing to know that men of God rest in peace at the center of the Catholicism near St. Peter, the first Bishop of Rome. Gerald and Kim spent many hours in the Basilica of St. Peter. They took many pictures especially in the late afternoon as rays of light streamed into the church. It was a faith building moment for the both of them. When they left the basilica, they walked the columns of the Vatican and stood at the obelisk in the center of the piazza.  They took picture after picture. They took pictures of the Pope’s private army, guards which only single men from Switzerland could only serve, though more recently they’ve allowed Italians and French join . They watched the changing of the guards and loved the colorful uniforms designed by Michelangelo himself, as belief is said. Kim and Gerald loved their day at the Vatican.

Gerald: Babe, let’s go eat. You must be starving.

Kim: I am.  I didn’t even think about eating during the time we were in the Basilica.  I could stay there all day. You just feel a peace there.  Amazing isn’t it?  You know sometimes walking here in Rome, you feel almost unworthy to walk the streets where many Christians were persecuted for their faith.  I also wished I visited when Pope John Paul II was our Pope.  I use to watch when he would hold the World Youth Day events throughout the world. I wanted to go in 2000 during Jubilee Year.  That would have been amazing. There were millions of kids from all over the world celebrating and strengthening their faith with each other and with the Pope. 

Gerald: Hey I watched that too.  At that time, it never occurred to me to go.  I guess I wasn’t so in tune with my faith as I am today. Maybe we’ll go with our kids when they are teens. 

Kim: You and your thinking. You’re still on babies aren’t you? But I do think it is a great idea.

Gerald: (laughing)  Why not? Didn’t God tell Abraham to go forth and multiply?

Kim: Abraham but not Gerald.

Gerald: I look at it as our ministry.  You know the sacraments – well there’s the sacrament where you marry the one you love and there’s the one where you marry the church.  We married because we love each other. Part of our responsibility is to build a family in faith, right?

Kim: Right. (looking at Gerald with a smile)

Gerald: Well, we need to build a family to carry out our sacrament and raise children in the faith.

Kim: True. But it doesn’t say when.

Gerald: Seriously, are you ready?

Kim: Baby, I’m ready.  With you by my side, I’m ready.

Gerald hugged Kim as they walked out of the Piazza and went searching for a restaurant nearby for some pizza and wine.

Gerald: Do you think you are pregnant now?/

Kim: I don’t know babe because I’m suppose to be menstruating soon. Why am I talking about this with you?

Gerald: You can talk to me about anything.

Kim: Doesn’t sound romantic when you are on your honeymoon.

Gerald: It does when I think about making a baby with you. Don’t they say a woman is most fertile right after.

Kim: I think so. (looks up at him in surprise)  How do you know these things?

Gerald: I paid attention in ed. (smiling big)

Kim: (laughing) I know first hand that you must have received an ‘A+’ in that class.  Let’s go eat.

Gerald: (laughing) Are you telling me that you are giving me an ‘A+’? 

Kim: I’m not your ego.

Gerald whispered something to Kim, which made her giggle and hit Gerald. Gerald just laughed and pulled Kim under his arms. They  continued to walk the streets of Rome to become more familiar with the area and find things you could only stumble upon.  They decided to head towards the Trevi Fountain and have dinner there and people watch.  They loved hanging out there. The locals say that if you throw a coin over your left shoulder into the Trevi Fountain, you will return to Rome soon.  They both threw coins over their shoulders and made their wishes.  They picked up a gelato and hung out at the fountain for awhile before they returned to their hotel room.

Over the next few days, they continued to play tourists in Rome and even went shopping.  However, they were more interested in taking in the sights of the city such as the Pantheon,   They spent a lot of time especially in the Vatican Museum where they stood in silence in the Sistine Chapel where Michelangelo’s Last Judgment was painted on the altar wall and the scenes of Genesis on the ceiling.  Over the next few days, Gerald and Kim walked the streets of Rome.  They visited the Colosseo and the Roman Forum.  They ate fresh coconut from a street vendor, rode one of the horse drawn carriages past the Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II.  They stumbled upon a museum of prisms. They admired the architecture throughout the city.  They avoided the fast driving cars that had no mercy or regard for pedestrians.  They laughed and giggled throughout the city. 

On Wednesday, it was known that Pope Benedict XVI held an audience at the Vatican.  They were fortunate to sit in the general audience and listen to Pope Benedict welcome people from around the world and also give blessings.  They bought religious items such as rosaries and medals for their friends.  They found a beautiful wooden crucifix with Jesus made in silver at one of the many religious stores that lined the street of Vatican city.  Gerald and Kim spent the rest of the afternoon in the basilica. They marveled at Bernini’s bronze baldacchino. They kissed the foot of St. Pete’s bronze statue. They prayed in each of the side chapels.  They were in awe of the many mosaics throughout the basilica that looked like oil paintings until you peered closer.  They spent quite awhile just looking at Michelangelo’s ‘Pieta’, finding his name etched on the sash on Mother Mary. It was the only piece of work he ever signed. They walked to the very top of the dome and took in the view of the Eternal City.  They giggled as they tried to step closer to listen to some of the tour guides.  They took the stairs down to the crypt where many of the popes were laid to rest.  Despite the eeriness to the situation, it was almost soothing to know that men of God rest in peace at the center of the Catholicism near St. Peter, the first Bishop of Rome. Gerald and Kim spent many hours in the Basilica of St. Peter. They took many pictures especially in the late afternoon as rays of light streamed into the church. It was a faith building moment for the both of them. When they left the basilica, they walked the columns of the Vatican and stood at the obelisk in the center of the piazza.  They took picture after picture. They took pictures of the Pope’s private army, guards which only single men from Switzerland could only serve, though more recently they’ve allowed Italians and French join . They watched the changing of the guards and loved the colorful uniforms designed by Michelangelo himself, as belief is said. Kim and Gerald loved their day at the Vatican.

Gerald: Babe, let’s go eat. You must be starving.

Kim: I am.  I didn’t even think about eating during the time we were in the Basilica.  I could stay there all day. You just feel a peace there.  Amazing isn’t it?  You know sometimes walking here in Rome, you feel almost unworthy to walk the streets where many Christians were persecuted for their faith.  I also wished I visited when Pope John Paul II was our Pope.  I use to watch when he would hold the World Youth Day events throughout the world. I wanted to go in 2000 during Jubilee Year.  That would have been amazing. There were millions of kids from all over the world celebrating and strengthening their faith with each other and with the Pope. 

Gerald: Hey I watched that too.  At that time, it never occurred to me to go.  I guess I wasn’t so in tune with my faith as I am today. Maybe we’ll go with our kids when they are teens. 

Kim: You and your thinking. You’re still on babies aren’t you? But I do think it is a great idea.

Gerald: (laughing)  Why not? Didn’t God tell Abraham to go forth and multiply?

Kim: Abraham but not Gerald.

Gerald: I look at it as our ministry.  You know the sacraments – well there’s the sacrament where you marry the one you love and there’s the one where you marry the church.  We married because we love each other. Part of our responsibility is to build a family in faith, right?

Kim: Right. (looking at Gerald with a smile)

Gerald: Well, we need to build a family to carry out our sacrament and raise children in the faith.

Kim: True. But it doesn’t say when.

Gerald: Seriously, are you ready?

Kim: Baby, I’m ready.  With you by my side, I’m ready.

Gerald hugged Kim as they walked out of the Piazza and went searching for a restaurant nearby for some pizza and wine.

Gerald: Do you think you are pregnant now?/

Kim: I don’t know babe because I’m suppose to be menstruating soon. Why am I talking about this with you?

Gerald: You can talk to me about anything.

Kim: Doesn’t sound romantic when you are on your honeymoon.

Gerald: It does when I think about making a baby with you. Don’t they say a woman is most fertile right after.

Kim: I think so. (looks up at him in surprise)  How do you know these things?

Gerald: I paid attention in ed. (smiling big)

Kim: (laughing) I know first hand that you must have received an ‘A+’ in that class.  Let’s go eat.

Gerald: (laughing) Are you telling me that you are giving me an ‘A+’? 

Kim: I’m not your ego.

Gerald whispered something to Kim, which made her giggle and hit Gerald. Gerald just laughed and pulled Kim under his arms. They  continued to walk the streets of Rome to become more familiar with the area and find things you could only stumble upon.  They decided to head towards the Trevi Fountain and have dinner there and people watch.  They loved hanging out there. The locals say that if you throw a coin over your left shoulder into the Trevi Fountain, you will return to Rome soon.  They both threw coins over their shoulders and made their wishes.  They picked up a gelato and hung out at the fountain for awhile before they returned to their hotel room.

Over the next few days, they continued to play tourists in Rome and even went shopping.  However, they were more interested in taking in the sights of the city such as the Pantheon,   They spent a lot of time especially in the Vatican Museum where they stood in silence in the Sistine Chapel where Michelangelo’s Last Judgment was painted on the altar wall and the scenes of Genesis on the ceiling. the altar wall and the scenes of Genesis on the ceiling. It was simply amazing. 

 Eventually they had to leave for Florence.  They took the train to Florence where one of the town cars from Andersons Firenze was waiting for them. Once again, they did not stay at Andersons but were driven to a villa in the Florence countryside, Villa I Barronci,  where they were staying during their time there. They loved the countryside with its rolling hills lined with vineyards. 

During their time in Florence, they appreciated the cuisine and even took cooking lessons from the caretaker. They learned about the birth of the Renaissance.  They had an amazing time.  They visited Brunelleschi’s Duomo, Palazzo Medici, walked the Boboli Gardens, and reveled in artifacts and art work displayed at the Uffizi museum. They visited the Statue of David at Florence's Galleria dell'Accademia. They walked the cobble streets, hand in hand, discovering the uniqueness of Florence. They even took the train to visit nearby Pisa to see the Leaning Tower.  They continued to explore Florence, enjoying each other’s company.

During their walk on Ponte Vecchio, over the River Arno…

Kim: Babe, I don’t need any more jewelry. 

Gerald: You should pick out some pieces. Italian silver is pretty good. You can use this as your casual jewelry if you want.  I just think they have some great pieces. Pick out some that remind you of Florence.

Kim: That’s what you said in Rome.

Gerald: The pieces here are not the same as in Rome.

Kim: How do you know?

Gerald: Different jewelry makers.

Kim: You are too funny.

Gerald: Babe, you deserve all this.

Kim: I’m glad you think so baby but I don’t need all of this.

Gerald: Which makes me want to buy you more.

Kim: (tiptoes to give Gerald a kiss) You are unreal. Every woman’s dream.

Gerald: But only 1 woman’s reality. (smiling down at her)

Kim: I love you babe.

Gerald: Are you almost done with your monthly?

Kim: (laughing)  Don’t worry… almost. Believe me, you’ll be the first to know.

Gerald and Kim just continued to enjoy each other’s company. They went shopping in the open market, bought Italian leather goods for their friends and family.  They bought more luggage just because of all the things they found while in Florence.

Kim: Babe. We are going crazy and we haven’t been to Milan, Venice or to Positano yet.

Gerald: No worries.  We can always ship things so if you see artwork you want in our home, let’s buy it. Okay.

Kim: Okay… I guess.

Gerald: No guessing.  Let’s enjoy more of Florence.

The next day, they took the train to Milan to explore even further what Italy had to offer. Gerald arranged for them to stay at the Four Seasons Milan which use to be a 15^th century convent. They stayed in the Royal Suite that occupied the entire 5^th floor of the Four Seasons which had a view of the Duomo and central Milan. Kim and Gerald loved the bustling city of Milan. Gerald was excited to be in Milan because Alfa-Romeo motorcar company was based there. He was debating whether he would order a car or not. And Kim was excited because Milan was known as a capitol for fashion and for its silk production.  Now it was time to do some serious shopping.

Kim: Babe, can you believe that we’ve been in Italy for almost 2 weeks now?! Rome, Florence now Milan. I love it.  Italy is beautiful. I think I want to move here.

Gerald: (laughing) We can if you want.

Kim: Let me think about it. (laughing)  What about you?

Gerald: I don’t care where I am at as along as I am with you.

Kim: Ditto babe.  So what do you want to do first here in Milan?

Gerald: Ummm… do I have to tell you?

Kim: (giggling)  Not yet baby. Soon. Very soon.

Gerald: Maybe we should wait until Venice.

Kim: Why?

Gerald: Then I can say my child was conceived in Venice.

Kim: Sira. (laughing)  How will you know or guarantee it?

Gerald: Practice. Multiple attempts. Lock you in the room.

Kim: You mean, we’re not going to see Venice. Gondola rides, grand canal, vaporetti?

Gerald: (laughing) I wouldn’t do that to you. I want to romance my girl too. Got to get her in the mood.

Kim: (under her breath)  You near me is mood making enough.

Gerald: (hearing her)  Can’t resist the hotness, can you?

Kim: (laughing)  Who said?

Gerald: I heard you.

Kim: Heard me what?

Gerald: Me near you is mood making enough. Thought I didn’t hear, did you?

Kim: Hmmm… (trying not to smile) I don’t think that is what I said.

Gerald: Really? (As he walked closer to Kim) Are you sure?

Gerald lightly blew into Kim’s ear and kissed her gently at the nape of her neck. Kim sighed and turned into Gerald’s arms, putting her arms around his neck.

Kim: Not sure. You are such a punk. But I love you anyways.

Gerald: (chuckling)  I love you too beautiful.  (holding her close) Are you enjoying our honeymoon?

Kim: I am definitely enjoying our honeymoon. Are you?

Gerald: Yes. I’ve been to Italy before but it seems like this is my first time here because of you. I’m an Italian .

Kim: (laughing) After what we’ve done between San Francisco to now… is not exactly how I would describe you.

Gerald: You deflowered me!

Kim: (laughing)  You’re a nut but I love you still.

Gerald: Do you know what I want to do?

Kim: What?

Gerald: I want to order room service, get some popcorn, order a movie on TV, and snuggle with my baby in bed. How does that sound?

Kim: That sounds like heaven right now. But it’s funny. We’re in Milan and all we want to do is watch a movie and eat popcorn.

Gerald: You forget the important part.

Kim: What’s that?

Gerald: In bed with my baby.

Kim: Very important. Let’s order.

Gerald ordered room service and they changed into more comfortable clothes. They scrolled through all the movies that were being offered and chose one they both wanted to see. They kept the curtains open to continue to see the view of Milan outside their window. Room service arrived and they ate lunch and had ordered some snacks to tide them over until dinner.  They both jumped into bed. Gerald leaned against the headboard while Kim leaned against Gerald’s chest.

Gerald: Now this is the life.

Kim: I totally agree babe. Great idea.

Gerald: I figured we’ve been out and about almost everyday that we deserve a break.

Kim: It’s been fun though.

Gerald: I just want to spend some serious alone time with my wife.

Kim: I am so loving my husband right now.

Gerald: I love you too baby. (kisses the top of her head) Let’s watch?

Kim: Ready.

Gerald and Kim spent their first day in Milan just lounging in bed. They watched movies, ate popcorn, napped, talked, and kissed. They decided to stay in for the rest of the day and didn’t leave their room until the next morning. During their time in Milan, they visited the gothic Duomo di Milano where they went to the roof to try to see more closely the famous ‘Madunina’ at the top of the cathedral.  Though they had already visited many cathedrals since the beginning of their honeymoon, each church had a uniqueness about them that made each stop interesting. Kim and Gerald always made a point to light candles for their marriage and for their family and friends. They also visited Santa Maria della Grazie to see Leonardo da Vinci’s painting of the Last Supper. They loved how everything was within walking distance to their hotel. Kim loved that a lot of the designer shops were right near by too.  That night, Gerald had made arrangements for them to see an opera, Tristan und Isolde, at the Teatro alla Scala. They dressed more formally that night where Gerald planned a romantic dinner right there at the Four Seasons Milan restaurant Il Teatro.  Though La Scala was only a 10 minute walk from the hotel, Gerald made arrangements for a town car to drive them. They loved the opera and enjoyed the powerful voices of their leads. Kim was loving their ‘date night’ out.

Over the next few days, Kim and Gerald continued to play tourist. There was so much to do in Milan. They even visited Alfa Romeo to take a look at their cars.  Gerald was still debating about ordering a car and told them that he would call.  He just wanted one but knew that he would rarely use it. They even took a day trip out to Lake Como and Bellagio which was about 1 hour away.  They loved taking a ride out on the lake and seeing the beautiful homes that graced it.  Then it was time to pack up once again and head to Venice.  Kim could not wait. 
They were both looking forward to Venice.

Eventually they had to leave for Florence.  They took the train to Florence where one of the town cars from Andersons Firenze was waiting for them. Once again, they did not stay at Andersons but were driven to a villa in the Florence countryside, Villa I Barronci,  where they were staying during their time there. They loved the countryside with its rolling hills lined with vineyards. 

During their time in Florence, they appreciated the cuisine and even took cooking lessons from the caretaker. They learned about the birth of the Renaissance.  They had an amazing time.  They visited Brunelleschi’s Duomo, Palazzo Medici, walked the Boboli Gardens, and reveled in artifacts and art work displayed at the Uffizi museum. They visited the Statue of David at Florence's Galleria dell'Accademia. They walked the cobble streets, hand in hand, discovering the uniqueness of Florence. They even took the train to visit nearby Pisa to see the Leaning Tower.  They continued to explore Florence, enjoying each other’s company.

During their walk on Ponte Vecchio, over the River Arno…

Kim: Babe, I don’t need any more jewelry. 

Gerald: You should pick out some pieces. Italian silver is pretty good. You can use this as your casual jewelry if you want.  I just think they have some great pieces. Pick out some that remind you of Florence.

Kim: That’s what you said in Rome.

Gerald: The pieces here are not the same as in Rome.

Kim: How do you know?

Gerald: Different jewelry makers.

Kim: You are too funny.

Gerald: Babe, you deserve all this.

Kim: I’m glad you think so baby but I don’t need all of this.

Gerald: Which makes me want to buy you more.

Kim: (tiptoes to give Gerald a kiss) You are unreal. Every woman’s dream.

Gerald: But only 1 woman’s reality. (smiling down at her)

Kim: I love you babe.

Gerald: Are you almost done with your monthly?

Kim: (laughing)  Don’t worry… almost. Believe me, you’ll be the first to know.

Gerald and Kim just continued to enjoy each other’s company. They went shopping in the open market, bought Italian leather goods for their friends and family.  They bought more luggage just because of all the things they found while in Florence.

Kim: Babe. We are going crazy and we haven’t been to Milan, Venice or to Positano yet.

Gerald: No worries.  We can always ship things so if you see artwork you want in our home, let’s buy it. Okay.

Kim: Okay… I guess.

Gerald: No guessing.  Let’s enjoy more of Florence.

The next day, they took the train to Milan to explore even further what Italy had to offer. Gerald arranged for them to stay at the Four Seasons Milan which use to be a 15^th century convent. They stayed in the Royal Suite that occupied the entire 5^th floor of the Four Seasons which had a view of the Duomo and central Milan. Kim and Gerald loved the bustling city of Milan. Gerald was excited to be in Milan because Alfa-Romeo motorcar company was based there. He was debating whether he would order a car or not. And Kim was excited because Milan was known as a capitol for fashion and for its silk production.  Now it was time to do some serious shopping.

Kim: Babe, can you believe that we’ve been in Italy for almost 2 weeks now?! Rome, Florence now Milan. I love it.  Italy is beautiful. I think I want to move here.

Gerald: (laughing) We can if you want.

Kim: Let me think about it. (laughing)  What about you?

Gerald: I don’t care where I am at as along as I am with you.

Kim: Ditto babe.  So what do you want to do first here in Milan?

Gerald: Ummm… do I have to tell you?

Kim: (giggling)  Not yet baby. Soon. Very soon.

Gerald: Maybe we should wait until Venice.

Kim: Why?

Gerald: Then I can say my child was conceived in Venice.

Kim: Sira. (laughing)  How will you know or guarantee it?

Gerald: Practice. Multiple attempts. Lock you in the room.

Kim: You mean, we’re not going to see Venice. Gondola rides, grand canal, vaporetti?

Gerald: (laughing) I wouldn’t do that to you. I want to romance my girl too. Got to get her in the mood.

Kim: (under her breath)  You near me is mood making enough.

Gerald: (hearing her)  Can’t resist the hotness, can you?

Kim: (laughing)  Who said?

Gerald: I heard you.

Kim: Heard me what?

Gerald: Me near you is mood making enough. Thought I didn’t hear, did you?

Kim: Hmmm… (trying not to smile) I don’t think that is what I said.

Gerald: Really? (As he walked closer to Kim) Are you sure?

Gerald lightly blew into Kim’s ear and kissed her gently at the nape of her neck. Kim sighed and turned into Gerald’s arms, putting her arms around his neck.

Kim: Not sure. You are such a punk. But I love you anyways.

Gerald: (chuckling)  I love you too beautiful.  (holding her close) Are you enjoying our honeymoon?

Kim: I am definitely enjoying our honeymoon. Are you?

Gerald: Yes. I’ve been to Italy before but it seems like this is my first time here because of you. I’m an Italian .

Kim: (laughing) After what we’ve done between San Francisco to now… is not exactly how I would describe you.

Gerald: You deflowered me!

Kim: (laughing)  You’re a nut but I love you still.

Gerald: Do you know what I want to do?

Kim: What?

Gerald: I want to order room service, get some popcorn, order a movie on TV, and snuggle with my baby in bed. How does that sound?

Kim: That sounds like heaven right now. But it’s funny. We’re in Milan and all we want to do is watch a movie and eat popcorn.

Gerald: You forget the important part.

Kim: What’s that?

Gerald: In bed with my baby.

Kim: Very important. Let’s order.

Gerald ordered room service and they changed into more comfortable clothes. They scrolled through all the movies that were being offered and chose one they both wanted to see. They kept the curtains open to continue to see the view of Milan outside their window. Room service arrived and they ate lunch and had ordered some snacks to tide them over until dinner.  They both jumped into bed. Gerald leaned against the headboard while Kim leaned against Gerald’s chest.

Gerald: Now this is the life.

Kim: I totally agree babe. Great idea.

Gerald: I figured we’ve been out and about almost everyday that we deserve a break.

Kim: It’s been fun though.

Gerald: I just want to spend some serious alone time with my wife.

Kim: I am so loving my husband right now.

Gerald: I love you too baby. (kisses the top of her head) Let’s watch?

Kim: Ready.

Gerald and Kim spent their first day in Milan just lounging in bed. They watched movies, ate popcorn, napped, talked, and kissed. They decided to stay in for the rest of the day and didn’t leave their room until the next morning. During their time in Milan, they visited the gothic Duomo di Milano where they went to the roof to try to see more closely the famous ‘Madunina’ at the top of the cathedral.  Though they had already visited many cathedrals since the beginning of their honeymoon, each church had a uniqueness about them that made each stop interesting. Kim and Gerald always made a point to light candles for their marriage and for their family and friends. They also visited Santa Maria della Grazie to see Leonardo da Vinci’s painting of the Last Supper. They loved how everything was within walking distance to their hotel. Kim loved that a lot of the designer shops were right near by too.  That night, Gerald had made arrangements for them to see an opera, Tristan und Isolde, at the Teatro alla Scala. They dressed more formally that night where Gerald planned a romantic dinner right there at the Four Seasons Milan restaurant Il Teatro.  Though La Scala was only a 10 minute walk from the hotel, Gerald made arrangements for a town car to drive them. They loved the opera and enjoyed the powerful voices of their leads. Kim was loving their ‘date night’ out.

Over the next few days, Kim and Gerald continued to play tourist. There was so much to do in Milan. They even visited Alfa Romeo to take a look at their cars.  Gerald was still debating about ordering a car and told them that he would call.  He just wanted one but knew that he would rarely use it. They even took a day trip out to Lake Como and Bellagio which was about 1 hour away.  They loved taking a ride out on the lake and seeing the beautiful homes that graced it.  Then it was time to pack up once again and head to Venice.  Kim could not wait. 
They were both looking forward to Venice.

Eventually they had to leave for Florence.  They took the train to Florence where one of the town cars from Andersons Firenze was waiting for them. Once again, they did not stay at Andersons but were driven to a villa in the Florence countryside, Villa I Barronci,  where they were staying during their time there. They loved the countryside with its rolling hills lined with vineyards.  

During their time in Florence, they appreciated the cuisine and even took cooking lessons from the caretaker. They learned about the birth of the Renaissance.  They had an amazing time.  They visited Brunelleschi’s Duomo, Palazzo Medici, walked the Boboli Gardens, and reveled in artifacts and art work displayed at the Uffizi museum. They visited the Statue of David at Florence's Galleria dell'Accademia. They walked the cobble streets, hand in hand, discovering the uniqueness of Florence.They even took the train to visit nearby Pisa to see the Leaning Tower.  They continued to explore Florence, enjoying each other’s company.

During their walk on Ponte Vecchio, over the River Arno…

Kim: Babe, I don’t need any more jewelry. 

Gerald: You should pick out some pieces. Italian silver is pretty good. You can use this as your casual jewelry if you want.  I just think they have some great pieces. Pick out some that remind you of Florence.

Kim: That’s what you said in Rome.

Gerald: The pieces here are not the same as in Rome.

Kim: How do you know?

Gerald: Different jewelry makers.

Kim: You are too funny.

Gerald: Babe, you deserve all this.

Kim: I’m glad you think so baby but I don’t need all of this.

Gerald: Which makes me want to buy you more.

Kim: (tiptoes to give Gerald a kiss) You are unreal. Every woman’s dream.

Gerald: But only 1 woman’s reality. (smiling down at her)

Kim: I love you babe.

Gerald: Are you almost done with your monthly?

Kim: (laughing)  Don’t worry… almost. Believe me, you’ll be the first to know.

Gerald and Kim just continued to enjoy each other’s company. They went shopping in the open market, bought Italian leather goods for their friends and family.  They bought more luggage just because of all the things they found while in Florence.

Kim: Babe. We are going crazy and we haven’t been to Milan, Venice or to Positano yet.

Gerald: No worries.  We can always ship things so if you see artwork you want in our home, let’s buy it. Okay.

Kim: Okay… I guess.

Gerald: No guessing.  Let’s enjoy more of Florence.

The next day, they took the train to Milan to explore even further what Italy had to offer. Gerald arranged for them to stay at the Four Seasons Milan which use to be a 15^th century convent. They stayed in the Royal Suite that occupied the entire 5^th floor of the Four Seasons which had a view of the Duomo and central Milan. Kim and Gerald loved the bustling city of Milan. Gerald was excited to be in Milan because Alfa-Romeo motorcar company was based there. He was debating whether he would order a car or not. And Kim was excited because Milan was known as a capitol for fashion and for its silk production.  Now it was time to do some serious shopping.

Kim: Babe, can you believe that we’ve been in Italy for almost 2 weeks now?! Rome, Florence now Milan. I love it.  Italy is beautiful. I think I want to move here.

Gerald: (laughing) We can if you want.

Kim: Let me think about it. (laughing)  What about you?

Gerald: I don’t care where I am at as along as I am with you.

Kim: Ditto babe.  So what do you want to do first here in Milan?

Gerald: Ummm… do I have to tell you?

Kim: (giggling)  Not yet baby. Soon. Very soon.

Gerald: Maybe we should wait until Venice.

Kim: Why?

Gerald: Then I can say my child was conceived in Venice.

Kim: Sira. (laughing)  How will you know or guarantee it?

Gerald: Practice. Multiple attempts. Lock you in the room.

Kim: You mean, we’re not going to see Venice. Gondola rides, grand canal, vaporetti?

Gerald: (laughing) I wouldn’t do that to you. I want to romance my girl too. Got to get her in the mood.

Kim: (under her breath)  You near me is mood making enough.

Gerald: (hearing her)  Can’t resist the hotness, can you?

Kim: (laughing)  Who said?

Gerald: I heard you.

Kim: Heard me what?

Gerald: Me near you is mood making enough. Thought I didn’t hear, did you?

Kim: Hmmm… (trying not to smile) I don’t think that is what I said.

Gerald: Really? (As he walked closer to Kim) Are you sure?

Gerald lightly blew into Kim’s ear and kissed her gently at the nape of her neck. Kim sighed and turned into Gerald’s arms, putting her arms around his neck.

Kim: Not sure. You are such a punk. But I love you anyways.

Gerald: (chuckling)  I love you too beautiful.  (holding her close) Are you enjoying our honeymoon?

Kim: I am definitely enjoying our honeymoon. Are you?

Gerald: Yes. I’ve been to Italy before but it seems like this is my first time here because of you. I’m an Italian .

Kim: (laughing) After what we’ve done between San Francisco to now… is not exactly how I would describe you.

Gerald: You deflowered me!

Kim: (laughing)  You’re a nut but I love you still.

Gerald: Do you know what I want to do?

Kim: What?

Gerald: I want to order room service, get some popcorn, order a movie on TV, and snuggle with my baby in bed. How does that sound?

Kim: That sounds like heaven right now. But it’s funny. We’re in Milan and all we want to do is watch a movie and eat popcorn.

Gerald: You forget the important part.

Kim: What’s that?

Gerald: In bed with my baby.

Kim: Very important. Let’s order.

Gerald ordered room service and they changed into more comfortable clothes. They scrolled through all the movies that were being offered and chose one they both wanted to see. They kept the curtains open to continue to see the view of Milan outside their window. Room service arrived and they ate lunch and had ordered some snacks to tide them over until dinner.  They both jumped into bed. Gerald leaned against the headboard while Kim leaned against Gerald’s chest.

Gerald: Now this is the life.

Kim: I totally agree babe. Great idea.

Gerald: I figured we’ve been out and about almost everyday that we deserve a break.

Kim: It’s been fun though.

Gerald: I just want to spend some serious alone time with my wife.

Kim: I am so loving my husband right now.

Gerald: I love you too baby. (kisses the top of her head) Let’s watch?

Kim: Ready.

Gerald and Kim spent their first day in Milan just lounging in bed. They watched movies, ate popcorn, napped, talked, and kissed. They decided to stay in for the rest of the day and didn’t leave their room until the next morning. During their time in Milan, they visited the gothic Duomo di Milano where they went to the roof to try to see more closely the famous ‘Madunina’ at the top of the cathedral.  Though they had already visited many cathedrals since the beginning of their honeymoon, each church had a uniqueness about them that made each stop interesting. Kim and Gerald always made a point to light candles for their marriage and for their family and friends. They also visited Santa Maria della Grazie to see Leonardo da Vinci’s painting of the Last Supper. They loved how everything was within walking distance to their hotel. Kim loved that a lot of the designer shops were right near by too.  That night, Gerald had made arrangements for them to see an opera, Tristan und Isolde, at the Teatro alla Scala. They dressed more formally that night where Gerald planned a romantic dinner right there at the Four Seasons Milan restaurant Il Teatro.  Though La Scala was only a 10 minute walk from the hotel, Gerald made arrangements for a town car to drive them. They loved the opera and enjoyed the powerful voices of their leads. Kim was loving their ‘date night’ out.

Over the next few days, Kim and Gerald continued to play tourist. There was so much to do in Milan. They even visited Alfa Romeo to take a look at their cars.  Gerald was still debating about ordering a car and told them that he would call.  He just wanted one but knew that he would rarely use it. They even took a day trip out to Lake Como and Bellagio which was about 1 hour away.  They loved taking a ride out on the lake and seeing the beautiful homes that graced it.  Then it was time to pack up once again and head to Venice.  Kim could not wait. 
They were both looking forward to Venice.