Day 13: Elva Conquers the Mountain

Yes, this day is mostly about Elva: her perseverance, courage, pain conquering climb to the church of San Martino located on the side of a huge cliff...and reached only after a loooooong walk uphill!

Here's a slightly better view of the church's distance up the side of the cliff.  If you look over Elva's left shoulder, you might see a white dot halfway up the mountain across the lake.  That's the church we climbed up to this morning

This was no small feat.  And when we arrived at the top...Steve started singing Loch Lomond with the Glasgow couple we met at the top.  What a riot!!!

Turns out, I was the only one sweating in our group.  Alyssa and Aimee wore flip flops and skirts just to make me feel even more out of shape!  Kids these days....  Peggy was Elva's hiking coach, and water conservation ranger throughout the hike...she made it up easily and beautifully...

Even though this was the major activity of the day, of course we ran into the rich and famous along the way.  In fact, on this day, we saw none other than the Hollywood icon...that's right...George Clooney!!!!

You may not be able to see him from your angle, but it's clearly him flying this glider plane over the Rifugio Menaggio.  Look closely and you'll see him talking on his cell phone as he glides...that guy is soooo cool!

In the morning, we had to say goodbye to our dear British friends, Simon and Barbara.  They live in the Cotswolds and have been a joy to chat with.

and of course, in the hubbub of hiking, watching 2 soccer games, taking a refreshing dip in Lake Como and water taxiing to Bellagio...we found time for this roasted vegetable "staple"

Brazil was a machine....so far the game I'd like to see would be a Germany vs Brazil...who knows what other skillful soccer teams will show up during the World Cup...but it really is exciting getting to watch it here.  One small example; when we were in the British Pub watching England get smashed...someone broke a glass and the waitress brought out a red card on the guy.  Best and only cheering all game:)))

Today will see more hiking, Villa visiting and all around joyful and precious time with the Gubitz and Burl teams.  love you all ...  ciao bella!