The alarm sounded this time and I shut that bad boy off. It was far to early for any sane person to roll out of bed. I slept fitfully for another forty five minutes. In the end the drive to see sunrise from the “Spanish steps” won out over sanity, I lept out of bed. Ellen asked what’s wrong where are you going. “Off to see the sunrise if it’s not too late” Ellen, “I’ll come”. Me, “I’ll see you up there.” Ellen can be slow getting started, she reviews everything she plans to take, gathers up her stuff, puts it away, reconsiders what to take, reviews what she has. This can take some time. I’m glad she does this, often someting she brings along “saves the day”.

For me, I just threw on some shorts, a shirt, grabbed the camera and slipped on my sandals and I was gone. The hike to the overlook up the stairs was not bad. It was cool, but not cold. The walk was invigorating. I was alone climbing the stairs.

There were seven others at the overlook aside from the coffee and beer vendors and a cleaning crew: a Russian couple, a striking blond woman in a bright orange dress; three Italians who arrived on two vespas; one Asian guy; and me. The sun had risen but had not broken above the surrounding hills. The outlook at Piazzale Michelangelo is quite dramatic and affords a wonderful view over the old city of Florence.

After about twenty minutes, just before the sun peaked over the hills, I heard Ellen’s voice behind me, “Hello”. I was great that she came up before the sun lit up the valley. It did not feel good leaving her behind, but I did want to be sure not to miss the morning light over the city and watch the subtle changes. It was great being together at sunrise.