Murano.

Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

Matthew 7:13-14

Following Christ is certainly not an easy road. But it is the ONLY one that leads to life. Life being satisfaction, clarity, and love. Choose that one. 

Here are some of my favorite photos from Murano! It is such a beautiful island, known for it's blown glass. We had the opportunity to see a demonstration of a few figures being made. 

 So beautiful. They are known for their glass horses. I went crazy and bought three to bring home with me. One for Mom, one for Olivia, and one for me. 

 My lunch: gnocchi with Norwegian lobster and pesto sauce. 

Acqua.

Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to this life?

Matthew 6:27

I love this verse. I went to sleep last night worried about so many things: money, this summer, my major/minor. I woke up worried as well. For my Lent reading plan I read Matthew 6 this morning and it was convicting on so many levels. I am such a worrier. I like to think I am not, that I can just go with the flow, but unfortunately for me that is near impossible. What good does it do me? None. My Heavenly Father is in control. I know He has a plan for me. Now I must live it. I must trust in Him. 

Here is one of the outfits I wore in Venice. 

denim shirt: Mom's

horse blouse: Zara

jeans: CJ

shoes: Dr. Marten's

scarf: H&M

Pictures from Murano to come tomorrow. 

Have a wonderful evening/afternoon. Don't worry, He's got it. 

Venezia.

Now my soul is troubled, and what shall I say? 'Father, save me from this hour'? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. 

John 12:27

I read this verse on the bus home from Venice. I think it is a beautiful description of Jesus' unconditional love for us. But I also think it can be applied to our lives as children of God. Our Father has a reason for every experience and challenge we face. Instead of trying to find a way to avoid the things that trouble our souls, we must face them with the assurance that God has a reason for the hour. 

Last weekend I went to Venice and Murano. Here are some of the pictures I took in the beautiful city of Venice. It was unlike anything I have ever seen. All transportation is by water: ambulances, fire-boats (?), taxis, busses, and police-boats. I was fascinated at this different way of life. I also loved smelling the salt air of the Adriatic coast. Such a cool place. 

 San Marco Square

 St. Mark's Basilica 

 inside St. Mark's Basilica 

Venice saying arrivederci. It was so hard to leave. But I am glad to be back in Firenze, my home for a short time, where I can walk anywhere rather than swim. 

Pictures of my outfit tomorrow!