Hello Rapallo!

We started the day with a walk from Levanto along the old train line to Bonassola. This charming little fishing village boasts one of the most lovely beaches of the Italian Riviera.

Along the way, we bumped into some nuns who were on their way to the building we could see way off in the distance at the tip of the cape. We learned that they were on the their way to 'Our Lady of the Cape' ... a little stone chapel that was built in the 1600s.
Of course, the old boy started flirting with one of them and he learned she was from Africa. When I asked if I could take a photo, she snuggled right in under his shoulder. We chatted briefly with all of them before they scooted off into the distance. They all seemed to be so light-hearted to me. One of the other people on our tour also commented that they seemed so joyful ... quite unlike the nuns that her husband had experienced while in school.

Little did we know, but that chapel was exactly where we were headed as well. We stopped for a little coffee break and bathroom break. It was only 10:30am ... but ... the old boy was not the least bit interested in any more coffee. He contended that he was ready for a nice white wine and was not to be dissuaded by the good natured shaming that was aimed in his direction. I ended up being grateful that he ordered it, because it came with a delicious plate of appetizers and I was already hungry. 👏👏

By the time we joined the nuns at the cape ... it was like we were old friends. They welcomed us, with the warmest smiles ... to gather with them in that wee, small space. Their celebration of their joyful spirits was so evident in their songs! I recognized one of the songs, but could not remember the words well enough to sing along. I was simply moved to tears by the experience! ❤️

We then walked up to the convent and enjoyed the most delicious lunch at Buranco. The view was exceptional as we gazed upon the hillsides lined with olive orchards and vineyards!

By the time we got back to Rapallo we had logged 14,451 steps (about 10kms). The old boy is really appreciating the knee brace ... and ... I am delighted to share that I haven't needed analgesics nor anti-inflammatories since Amalfi! 👏👏👏👏👏

After a little time to freshen up, we headed out on foot again for our dinner reservation. We could not believe our eyes when, while enroute, an amazing fireworks erupted right beside us!! I've added a snippet, but I took three videos in total! Theraucous display went on for almost 5 minutes!

We enjoyed another wonderful meal and, once again, ate far too much. We toddled home later than I would have preferred ... but ... we fell asleep with our hearts as full as our bellies! 🙌

Hugs to you all,
❤️ k&j ❤️Okumaya devam et