Saturday began our first weekend adventure out of Firenze! Students were very happy to sleep in and rest up after a busy first few days here. Like locals, we boarded the #7 bus and ascended up into the hills around Florence on our way to Fiesole. Fun fact: Fiesole is the hometown of Andrea Barzagli, a member of the 2006 World Cup champion team. Students were surprised to see the scale of Firenze and how far it expanded from this new vantage point 5 miles away- especially how grand the Duomo was!
When everyone had arrived, we trekked up the hill to a viewpoint of Firenze and some breathtaking photo-ops. After continuing on past the Convent of St. Francis, we made it to a quaint park for a delicious picnic! Abbey Roaders munched on paninis and chatted while enjoying some rare breezy weather. Everyone discovered their inner child and bonded over outdoor games like Red Rover, Ultimate Frisbee, volleyball, and soccer. Competitive spirits emerged during a staff vs. student Frisbee game- we ultimately declared a tie since it was too close to call J Fun was had by all as we got to know each other explore this picturesque little village outside of our summer home.
Studenti on the stairs
Super challenge! Group photo with 72 studenti :)
Frisbee experts
A game of volleyball
Game faces on during staff vs. student frisbee game
Tess, Daniele, and Ilana pose during the picnic
Perfect opportunity for sketching