Bag number two -- found!

Got the call last night that Alan's bag had been, at last, found. It is now awaiting us at the Pisa airport as we didn't want to trust to the courier services to find this remote place, which is locked behind a closed gate. At least we will fly back with two bags, same number we started out with.

We've done quite a bit the last two days. Thursday morning, we headed off for Forte dei Marmi (which means marble), a resort town on the beach. It's quite a lovely town and we enjoyed walking out the pier to watch the swimmers. Beach access is controlled -- for between seven and fifty euros, you can have your own cabana (all named) and lounge chair or seating area, in addition to access to the water. Not too many people were swimming; surprisingly, there were waves enough for the surfers out there. But I don't think the boys of Hawaii are in any danger.

Returning from Forte dei Marmi, we stopped by the Pisa airport to drop Bess and Sarah at the train station and to swap back the larger car for our small BMW. At that time, there was no word on Alan's bag. Back at the house, it was time for a swim, with ominous clouds lurking overhead. Several times it has seemed like it just had to rain based on the clouds, wind, and smell, but it never has. Too bad -- it's pretty hazy.

Friday we started the day with a swim and sun session -- Alan and I are getting quite brown. Then, we headed out to a local vineyard, Colle Verde, that had fantastic views, even on a cloudy day. Alan and I took an olive oil and wine production tour and then joined Marianne for a tasting. Christina, our local host, was knowledgeable and personable. Our visit was cut short by the need to get Marianne to her hair appointment at 4pm but overall, highly recommended.

Last night was the culinary highlight of the trip so far, a trip just down the road to La Cecca. Lovely outdoor dining area, excellent service, and wonderful food. All for a good price.