Exploring the Lands of the Gods

I must say, I was surprised when I arrived on Athenian soil - I truly miss this place. True, it is full of cranky old Greeks, filth and traffic, but it has a charm all it's own that you simply cannot ignore. My friend Brigitte picked us up from the airport and was a wonderful hostess. Our hotel had a great view of the Acropolis, as you can see. We spent the first day at ACS (The American Community School) watching Alexander and the rest of the elementary school sing and dance in true Greek fashion in celebration of Greek Independence Day. Then it was on to our old stomping ground - Maroussi - for some fun at Luna Park and a quick trip to "The Mall." So much has changed in the 4 years since I left. There is now a Starbucks on every corner!!! I could of used that when I was living here. We finished that 1st day with the most amazing meal at a taverna in the center of Athens. I forgot how much I like Greek food when it is authentic. I ate more that night then I've eaten in 6 months! It helps to go to a taverna with a Greek. Yanni ordered so much food we didn't even touch 2 of the plates!
Kali spent the weekend sleeping at Alexander's flat, she was so happy to see him. On Saturday we went to Glyfada, which is a suburb on the sea. We ate at one of Jimmy's favorite restaurants - La Pasteria. The kids wanted pasta - I wanted more Greek food!?!? After that we took a stroll along the coast to a sea turtle rehab center and spent some time playing on the beach. Peyton and I called it an early night, early by Greek standards anyways. Kali went to the Greek-Turkey Football Match (soccer game) with Alex and his family. She spent the evening in luxury in a suite. Although Greece lost, she seemed to have a great time!
Of course, I had to live through another time change. That makes 2 hours of sleep I've lost this spring!!!
Sunday brought sunshine and a day cruise of the islands. There were six of us on the 3 island tour... a 3 island tour. Sorry for the Gilligan reference, I couldn't help myself. The Oliver clan, plus "Hey Tom", who was visiting from Akron and, of course, Alexander. We had a great day. That was Jimmy's 1st cruise. I've had the pleasure 4 or 5 times. This is Peyton's 1st trip to Greece, I left here pregnant with her. We rode donkeys, ate fish and fresh octopus and bought some art from "starving artists."
I was sad to see the day end, although the sunset was gorgeous.