Ciao! Summer Vacation

A few years ago we had an incredible experience on our cruise to the Greek islands, so when we saw a sailing for this summer with an itinerary that included our favorite ports plus some new ones, we just couldn't resist.  This time, we paired it with nearly a week in Tuscany, and voila--Dotson family vacation 2018 was born! Over two weeks of stunning scenery, divine food and wine, amazing history, fantastic shopping, and fun in the sun across Italy, Dalmatia, and the Greek islands was every bit as awesome as we anticipated.

First up was Tuscany, which we fell in love with easily. It was the perfect place to unwind in peaceful bliss before we geared up for more hard core sightseeing.

Some much needed chill time as the world melted away.

 Our first hotel was a paradise for the senses, literally -- the vista, gentle breeze, aroma of flowers and vineyards, birds chirping, mouthwatering food-- the stuff of dreams.  We splurged for a candlelit dinner in their courtyard restaurant, which was Simone's first Michelin starred meal.

Couldn't resist a visit to the acclaimed Antinori winery.  As much a  museum as a functional winery, it really was a sight to behold (and taste).  

Of course, wine on the veranda was a necessity here, we happily sampled their most famous Tignanello.

We meandered around a number of Chianti towns -- Greve, San Casciano, San Gimignano, Monterrigioni, and Gaiole -- all charming and quintessentially Tuscan.

After our fill of the countryside, we went to soak in some urban fun in Florence.  The statue of David, the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Boboli Gardens, and some of the best shoe shopping and gelato ever were the highlights.

Next up, over to Venice with a stop in Padova -- different vibe than Tuscany, but both amazing.

From Venice we boarded our ship -- stops in Dubrovnik, Montenegro, Kefalonia, Athens, Santorini, and Split.

Montenegro was a very pleasant surprise -- such a beautiful little country.

We had a relaxing beach day in Argostoli on the incredible island of Kefalonia.

The girls totally loved their rides on the inflatable pulled by the speedboat.  The mommies joined them once, and then we just watched the second time around.  Great fun -- but let's face it, we're not 21 anymore!  lol!

Some of the biggest smiles of the week!

Can't overstate the grandeur of the Parthenon -- truly a bucket list experience.  Possibly the oldest thing we've ever seen in person.

Santorini's stunning beauty has not faded one bit, and was again one of our favorite ports.

Wine tasting and lunch at Santo Wines smack in the center of the Cauldera. INCREDIBLE!

Beautiful Split -- definitely need to spend more time in Croatia!

Literally as happy as a kid in a candy store!

We were actually in Croatia on the day of the World Cup final game between France and Croatia.  The city was abuzz with excitement and Croatia shirts were everywhere!!  We couldn't resist becoming fans even though none of us know or care about soccer whatsoever!

And last but not least, we took one last day trip to the city of Verona once we returned to Italy.  Another surprisingly charming walled city -- home to the inspiration for Romeo and Juliette.

Juliette's balcony.

And there you have it -- our vacation recap.  We had such a great time and are so blessed to be able to make these memories together in such magical places.  These are the things you never want to end, but as I tell Simone all the time-- even good things need to end so that you can move on to the beginning of other good things! 

Hamilton Hype

Simone waited patiently for a long time for this moment, and I must say....

It is rare in life to experience something that actually exceeds the hype that surrounds it. BUT, family and friends, we assure you Hamilton does just that!!!

Last Saturday we went to see this award winning musical at the Kennedy Center, and we were blown away.  AMAZING.  It was easily the best show we have ever seen.  Simply a masterpiece.

They were being extremely strict about enforcing the no photography rule inside the theater, but we did try to capture the experience outside.

The single shot I snapped before being swooped upon by 3 ushers yelling "no pictures!"

After the show, we had dinner in DC at none other than.... wait for it.... The Hamilton Restaurant.  

And as if the spectacular musical wasn't enough, we also achieved another rarity in life.  We went three for three on some excellent desserts after a very satisfying meal.

Simone's peanut butter cheesecake.

Mom's carrot cake trifle.

Dad's amaretto bread pudding.  All fantastic!

A really superb way to spend a summer Saturday in the nation's capital.  Thank you Alexander Hamilton (and Lin-Manuel Miranda) for your genius!

Happy Father's Day!

Despite our busy month, we did not let Father's Day go unnoticed.  We celebrated on Saturday with brunch at L'Auberge Chez Francois with some close friends.  The weather was stunning, and the whole meal was leisurely and wonderful.

 Didn't get any pics of our meals, but did snap a few of dessert.

Tony's raspberry soufflé.

Simone opted for the chocolate tart with ice cream.

And I went straight for the plum tart with cinnamon ice cream. YUM!!

 Also spent some time outside on the patio just taking in the magnificent weather.

Two proud dads!

Elementary School Graduation!

Another major milestone for Simone!  This week she successfully completed fifth grade, and will advance to.... wait for it... MIDDLE SCHOOL in the fall.

Deep breath.  This was almost surreal for me.  I'd swear it was only 5 minutes ago that we brought our little preemie, who would barely open her eyes, home from the hospital.  And now, she's through elementary school.  Wow.  Just wow.  Everyone warns you how quickly they grow, but nothing can prepare you for it.  Simone has both changed/grown so much over these years, and yet her personality, her spirit, her amazing heart stays the same.  We are simply in awe of the little lady she's becoming. There's just no one like her!

On her last day of elementary school.

At the final Fifth Grade Luncheon before the farewell ceremony.

Simone was recognized for being selected for All County Chorus.

Receiving her completion certificate from her teacher and principal.

With her class.

Panoramic of the event.

After the ceremony.  Instead of flowers, we presented Simone her edible arrangement.  She's been asking for years to get one.  LOL.

A pose with daddy.

And a family selfie.

With her 5th grade teacher.

The entire 5th Grade.

Farewell and Congratulations Steuart Weller Elementary-- you survived Simone Dotson!!  Look out middle school!