The Cartier store all wrapped up on Monte Napoleone, the designer district.

Milano! Italia!

I hopped off the plane, ready to practice my rusty Italian. As soon as I payed the bus driver, I said, “Danke!”

Good grief.

After the short 45 minute flight, I met up with Daralisa and Chris and we headed to the Navigli area; the canals of Milan.

It was so great to see them and catch up. She’s 6 months pregnant and looks amazing…and just as fit as ever (most of the time she was climbing stairs or forging ahead, leaving me in the dust).

This year’s Christmas card!

We stopped by the Duomo and Gallerie Vittorio Emanuele, all lit up for Christmas.

Not having really researched the city, we ended up at a restaurant that seemed like Hell’s Kitchen. The head waiter yelled at all the staff and everyone seemed to be scared and miserable. At least the dinner company was enjoyable.

So after our big night out, we were in bed by 9.

I love pregnant women – our bedtimes are totally the same.

Daralisa and Chris left early the next morning unfortunately. So I had to spend spiritsunday by myself (hey, not really different from any other week).

I went to the Brera area, which was described as lively and bohemian (not pictured).

I caught Sunday mass at Santa Maria del Carmine.

I got lost in the little streets of small boutiques.

I found a pizzeria where I had pizza and wine while I read my book.

Then I picked up my bag from the hotel and headed back to the airport.

Such a relaxing day in Milan, and a great weekend catching up with old friends!

Santa Maria del Carmine