Looking Back...Wandering the Canals of Venice (April 2015)

Venice, Italy was one of those "must see" places for us during our time abroad.  Only roughly four hours from us, we couldn't miss it!

Now, everyone knows about the "enchantment" that IS Venice...the canals, the gondolas, the Holywood movie-type backdrop.  So, knowing this, I'm not exactly sure what we were thinking traveling there the way we did!!!  Were we crazy???  We brought our three girls (ranging from 3 weeks to 4 years old) to a city meant for people who can WALK.  Our three girls meant a double stroller loaded with a diaper bag filled with all the crapola needed for three little kids.  And did I mention that only one third of our daughters was walking at this point?!?  And one of them was only three weeks old???  Again, what were we thinking?!?

Up and over WAY TOO MANY bridges!

Kevin schlepping the stroller on a CROWDED brdige

But, despite the lugging and "work" that schleping a double stroller (with car seat attached for our newborn!) up and over bridges every 50 yards was, Venice was amazing!  Just like the other places we've visited, pictures don't do the city justice...and you certainly can't feel the "enchantment" unless you walk the streets and sit in the cafes and marvel at the gondolas.

We arrived the evening of April 4, 2015 and were instantly intrigued as we took the first of many ferries to the "ferry stop" closest to our rental apartment.  An adventure anywhere usually leads to tired and crabby kids, so our immediate thoughts after finding our apartment and unloading our bags is always FOOD!  Thank goodness the little restaurant around the corner had pasta, wine, and kid-friendly ice cream cups that put smiles on all of our faces....

Not sure where her smile is here...

The next day, we were ready to explore!  The streets were crowded, but that certainly didn't take away from the beauty that we saw around every corner!

But, one thing we've learned while traveling as a family of five is that we need lots of breaks!  It means finding little spots that the kids enjoy - even if it is just pebbles and pigeons! - and spending lots of times at cafes!

Can't go wrong with a cocktail while all the kids nap in the stroller!

So what is Venice known for?  Yes, the canals.  Yes, the gondolas.  But maybe lesser known is the Carnival flare and the masks.

You could look at different masks for hours!  But, this little girl only cared about three simple things...the color, the size of the feather, and the importance of a gem glued somewhere - anywhere - on the facewear.

And no trip to Venice would be complete without a gondola ride.  To be honest, perhaps a family boat ride like ours doesn't quite live up to the Hollywood movie portrayal of Venice.  And, yes, they are somewhat commercial -- all lined up, gondoliers waiting to make their next 100Euro, no romance, no gondolier singing, no bottle of wine shared as the boat drifts through the maze of canals.

But there is still something about a gondola ride in Venice, as a family of five, that sparks enchantment.

Maybe it was the giddyness in the eyes of a four-year old as we pushed away from the dock and the way she gazed out as we headed under the first crowded bridge.

Maybe it was the newborn nestled in my arms - unaware of her surroundings as Mama sat amazed with the fact that they were *here*.

Maybe it was the stillness of an 18-month old all cozied up on her Daddy's lap.

Maybe it was seeing the ancient buildings "growing' out of the canal waters and wondering how daily life happens with roads made of water.

Maybe it was the wooden boat with worn out cushions covered in crushed velvet.  Maybe it was the stark difference in blue skies and sunshine compared to the dark shadows cast over the narrow waterways.  Maybe it was the being there together.  Whatever it was, it was one of those "moments" that etches itself into your memory and doesn't want to be forgotten.

The one and only picture of all 5 of us!

Unique.  This city is definitely unique.  So, what were we thinking?  Double stroller...three little kids...no real plan in mind.  We were thinking, "Don't miss this."  And we loved it.

Don't ever disturb a sleeping newborn.  Even for a family photo in Venice.

And just because...

Looking Mighty Italian!