Marjan Hill: Take 2

We have hiked to the top of Marjan Hill, hiked a small portion of the south side; but on November 29th we decided to walk the entire 10K circumference around Marjan Hill.  We love being outside.  It's nice to have a place to retreat away from the city so close to the city...that sounds weird.  Bobby and I used to be wilderness adventurers back in the day, and we think it's time we step up our game when we get back in the States. First stop:  Cumberland Island...who's in?! :)

Sorry, just got sidetracked.  Anyway, the kids loved hiking on the paths in the woods, collecting sticks and rocks and pine cones as they went.  They also loved throwing said treasures into the water when the opportunity arose.   There were times that I had to stay on a wider path with the stroller while Bobby and the kids traveled on a less frequented path.  I am continuing to learn to keep my mouth shut with my "be carefuls" and instructions to Bobby about the kids safety.  He is an amazing dad.  They love spending time with him.  In the end, I know they will remember the feelings of adventure and fun they had with their dad and not the wet shoes or dirty hands they got in the process.  I have not mastered the art of letting go, but I am working on biting my tongue!  Looking back at these pictures, I am reminded how precious this time is that we have with them while they are young.

The three amigos traveling on a small, rocky path near the water's edge.

In case you were wondering, they did go into the tunnel to check it out.

After walking for around two hours, we realized that we were not even half way around the peninsula. Not planning well, we did not bring any food with us.   By happening upon Bene Beach with great playgrounds and a restaurant, we thought we were saved!  However, the chef had errands to run and wouldn't be back for at least an hour.  (Problem with touring during the off season.)  Since we were a couple of hours away from any other food options, we did what any other reasonable parent would do in the same situation.  We fed our children cake for lunch as this was the only food prepared and available in the restaurant.   Amelie and Liam were elated to have this opportunity to have an entire piece of cake to themselves and not have to eat anything prior to receiving this treat.  So, we played, ate, and then continued on our way.

St. Jeronimo's hermitage caves. 

We were greeted by this Jack Russell on top of the fence as we walked by...scared me to death! ;)

After "lunch" Liam feel asleep in this stroller for his nap time.
This is a picture I'm going to add to my compilation of places Liam has slept.

This is one of my favorite pictures of all time.
I am a sucker for sunset and for sweet moments between Bobby and Amelie.
I hit the jackpot with this picture! ;)

No, Liam is not taking the picture...he is still sleeping. ;)

I loved walking this area along the rocky beaches with all of the different pools.
It was much less windy and calm then when we walked this stretch the first time.

Bobby found an anemone that he was showing Amelie and Liam near a fisherman.

Nearing our apartment the sky (and water) turned pink...loved it!

The trek is as important as the destination

In the last post, I mentioned that getting to Split, Croatia turned out to be more of an adventure then we had originally anticipated.  Below is an account of that very adventure! :)

Once there was a family trying to get from Venice to Split during the winter.  What looked like a stone's throw away from Venice was actually a 3 day trip on plane, train, and ferry.  

Because the family had become so accustomed to traveling (said in a sarcastic tone), they had a lackadaisical approach concerning booking the transportation and accommodations needed for travel in between Venice and Split.  Using an amazing little tool that provides travel options with prices (http://www.rome2rio.com/), it was determined that the cheapest way for the family of four to travel would be to take a train to Ancona, Italy followed by an overnight ferry to Split.  Being a day away from needing to travel to the next stop, the family proceeded to the train station to buy the train tickets.  They expected to have a full range of options for train departures headed to Ancona.  

You can imagine how surprised they were to find out that most of the options leaving Venice were all booked. Why? Oh, due to the National Holiday, All Saints Day, in which schools and businesses close leaving freedom for a long weekend holiday.  The best option was to leave Venice on the 6:30 a.m. train on October 31st.  They were highly disappointed as the early morning departure would cut into their slotted Venice time, but they quickly recovered from the disappointment and were thankful to have a cheap way out of town allowing to make the ferry connection on time. 

None of the members of the family enjoy early morning commitments.  Leaving so early (5 am) in the morning provided the unique experience of seeing a quiet side of Venice.  The Venetians were happy to see the family leave town, especially when one of the members got sick on the water bus leaving town.  The train ride to Ancona was uneventful as sleeping and playing on the iPad consumed the four hour ride. 

The family arrived in Ancona around noon on October 31st.  Wanting to be free from their luggage, they quickly hired a taxi and headed to the bed and breakfast.  Much to their surprise, the bed and breakfast was located in the hills overlooking the city and the sea (aka:  remote location).  Not having a car left them stranded without much to do or places to eat.  The saving grace was the view as well as a zoo a couple feet away.  The zoo was equipped with both entertainment and a restaurant.  

The 32 hours spent in Ancona were relaxing and enjoyable.  The lack of a central city location was compensated by the amazing hospitality of the hosts.  A couple in their 70's were the perfect match for the young family.  They were treated as family by doting on the children, providing delicious drinks and home-made snacks, and good conversation.  The family enjoyed this time with their hosts as well as frequenting the zoo, and resting in the countryside.  The hosts went the extra mile by taking the family to the ferry port for their evening departure.  Knowing the port a little too well, the hosts dropped the family off right at the boat itself.  After hugs and kisses, the family said good-bye and headed to board the ferry.  

Little did they know that they had been dropped off without checking in properly.  Little did they know that they could not walk to check in properly, but would have to wait for a bus...that only came every 20 minutes.  Little did they know that the line to check in was growing ever so long.  The family rose to the challenge of making sure they embarked on their boat.  They raced to the bus station, waited in the long line, checked in properly, waited more at the bus station, and felt like with about 30 minutes to spare they would be okay.  And then it happened.  The realization that the two most important bags of our entire trip were not currently with them.  The children's bags filled with essential stuffed animals and beloved toys were left in the host's car.  Seeing the panic on their faces, a Croatian couple offered the use of their cell phone.  A desperate call for help was made to the host to return with the bags.  How far away was he?  Could he make it back to the port for us in 20 minutes before the boat departed?  The adrenaline started running strong again.  With minutes to spare, the family separated...mom and kids boarded the boat while dad waited for the bags.  The captain of the boat was informed of the predicament and asked not to leave until all had made it on board.  

The father was a hero.  Not only did he make it with the bags, he grabbed dinner (pizza slices) as well. As soon as he stepped on board, the ropes were released and the boat was off.  The family had to breathe and regain their composure for a second.

Being on board a large ferry was a fun adventure for all family members,  young and old.  It was a new experience for everyone.  Exploring the deck, talking with Canadian college students, and getting the bunks settled took about an hour.  Afterwards, it was lights out until the call for breakfast at 6 a.m.  

At 7 a.m. the family arrived well-rested to their destination, Split Croatia.  The journey had been longer than anticipated.  There had been bumps and detours along the way.  In the end, the experience would never be forgotten and remembered fondly.

Fine Arts Museum of Valencia

Museu de Belles Arts de Valencia (Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia) was founded in 1913 but it is housed in the College of St. Pius V dating back to the 1600s.  The building is a composed of 4 wings that are arranged around a cloister.  Two towers on the facade overlook the old channel of Turia giving it some appearance of a castle and allowing us to admire frequently as we ride past on our bikes.  With this museum housing a very large collection of 14th-19th century art, we knew we had to make the attempt to see it.  On September 17th we entered what turned out to be the most strict museums we have been to as far as child vigilance goes.  We had to hold Liam's hand (or hold him) the entire time.  We always stay near him during museums, but any time we let go of his hand for a second we were being prompted by the guards.  Liam wanted to "do it himself" which made it a difficult visit to really appreciate the artwork as much as we would have liked.  However, Bobby was able to get some good photos of art by one of his favorite artists.  Amelie was happy that there was no modern art present.  

Amelie and Liam waiting at the entrance.

Bobby securing our bikes.

Amelie's new fan bought at the market.  She loves it and loves seeing woman around town using them as well as in paintings using them.

Liam being silly as he climbed up and down the steps at the entrance.

Liam didn't have to hold our hand if he was sitting on the benches provided.

Symbol seen around Valencia.

After we were finished at the museum, we had plans of doing something else.  However, the lock securing the bikes would not unlock.  Bobby worked with it for a while and we determined that it was broken and would not be loosed.  He sprinted into town to find wifi so he could determine the closest location of the Do You Bike store that we rented our bikes from.  I took the kids to a nearby playground while we waited.  Bobby was successful in locating the bike store and was given a hacksaw to cut off the lock.  He cut through the chain and no one stopped him...not very comforting as we leave our bikes all around town.  We then had a delicious pastry snack to refuel us and set off towards home again (with a new lock in tow).  We never made it to whatever we had planned...I can't even remember.  The kids were happy with the playground stop.  I was happy that we didn't have to walk home and were able to unlock our bikes!!

Mr. Mom

You know you have an amazing husband when you can leave to another country for a week and all remains intact and normal with the two small children and the apartment by the time you return. 

In order to process paperwork for my job, I had to travel back to the States.  Although this was not in our plans, we rolled with the punches and made it happen so that I could be a full-time employee.  We are excited with this opportunity for me to be able to continue to work for an amazing organization that serves the needs of a diverse population of students.  I really do love my job.  So, although I hated leaving and being away from everyone for a week, it was worth it in the long run.  We had a tearful goodbye at the airport, but Bobby was able to get everyone in good moods with a McDonald's treat for lunch. They waited to watch me go through security because I went back with 4 large ziplock bags full of sea glass.  I did get stopped and questioned but then was able to proceed. Because I only had a carry-on (full of sea glass mind you), I was actually able to have a smooth travel experience to the States.  My original flight was delayed until the following day but I was able to hop on a plane at the last minute flying out the day intended because I only was traveling with a carry on.  Once at the Atlanta airport, I realized I didn't do a good job communicating with my parents a meet up spot.  Oops!  Thankfully, as I was trying to find free wifi to be able to use my phone, I saw my mom jump out of her car to run into the airport.  Perfect timing if you ask me!!  So, while I attended a meeting in Atlanta one day, went shopping with my mom & sister for things we needed, and worked; Bobby manned the fort with the kids.  He kept everyone entertained and well fed.  They did not miss a beat even though mom was not around.  I am one lucky girl!!  We did Skype with each other at least twice a day.  Gotta love technology! :)  Below are pictures of the fun things they did while I was away.

Amelie posing as an archeologist at Our Dynamic Earth.

Amelie touching a large iceberg at Our Dynamic Earth.

Amelie and Liam had the most fun playing in the ball pit.

Entering into the Insect and Butterfly World.

Amelie holding a millipede.  She held it for a second and jerked her hand away so wasn't able to handle it after that.

She did a wonderful job holding the snake.

Mirror maze in Camera Obscura. 

Aaahhh! Amelie shrunk or Liam became a giant!  Another illusion at Camera Obscura. 

Of course, time had to be spent at Leith Links Playground. 

I made it back to Leith safely and was able to successfully navigate different airports and bus stations getting home.  Amelie and Liam were ecstatic with the "presents" I brought back for them.  We were all happy to be together again.