Only three days left until Spring in Australia and I can’t wait!!!

These cool, bright mornings are so cheering to body and soul. I feel awakened, alive, and eager to dig in the dirt, gather armfuls of flowers, and generally celebrate my heart out.

It was on just such a day that my brother Ryan and I continued our early morning boat ride through Venice, Italy with our friends Ben and Natty. (To see part one click here)

There is something so glorious about a spring morning in a city like Venice: the slap of waves on gondolas, exquisite old buildings flooded with sunlight, flowers blooming everywhere.

Venice gondolas

We sat back in our seats, basking in the warmth of the just-risen sun, imagining ourselves living in these aging yet opulent buildings.

How lovely to wake up each morning, step out onto a sun-washed balcony with a steaming cup of espresso and gaze out over glistening canals.

Amazing.

Venice hotel

I loved spotting unexpected vignettes like the couple breakfasting on their balcony, utterly oblivious to passersby.

Venice bridge

I love the care Venetians take to festoon railings, balconies, window-boxes and courtyards with lavish profusions of blossoms. The buildings are gorgeous all on their own, but the brilliant spots of greenery and vivid blooms make them like something out of a fairytale.

Venetian church

As much as I loved bobbing along the canals, I envied the seagulls soaring above me, swooping over rooftops and perching cheekily atop those lovely striped poles.

They definitely get the best view of Venice.

Venice seagulls

What is your favorite way to explore a new city? On foot? By boat or taxi? From the top of the highest tower?