in LOVE with Santorini

So yesterday we arrived and didn't do too much.  Layed by the pool most of the day, walked down to the shops that are by our place, saw the beach with the black volcanic ash shore.  It was nice.

Today, I believe, has topped the Lycian Trail in Turkey as my favorite day so far.  We wanted to rent vehicles for the day so we could explore the island.  After seeing tons of people with road rash up and down their arms and legs and hearing scooter stories, we decided that 4 wheels were better than 2, and went for the ATVs.  It was the best 25 euro I spent so far!  Don't worry Mom, I wore my helmet all day :).  The first thing we did was dropoff our laundry.  Yes, I've only done proper laundry twice since I've been away, things are beyond dirty at this point; but like I've said, our standards are lower when you're living out of the one bag on your back.  My beach towel is as stiff as a board with all the salt that it has soaked up from weeks of swimming, but I still have a shirt to put on my back every day, so life is good. 

Then we headed up to Pirgos.  The highest point on the island that you can see the entire thing from, as well as the volcano next to it and other nearby islands.  It was a bit scary climbing up (well putzing really on my little 50 cc's ) while on the edge of a cliff and busses passing by, but we made it to the top for some great views!  We then headed to the capital of the island, Fira, for some sight seeing and some shopping.  It was PACKED with tourists, and made me glad to be on the quite side of the island. 

My father has spoiled me with nice jewelry for too long!!  I'm blaming today's shopping spree on you, Dad!  I broke the budget big time and bought myself a nice necklace.  I figure that my favorite piece of jewelry is the cameo that Boppa bought for Nana when he was in Italy during his service, that my dad had turned into necklaces for me, my mom, sister, aunts and niece.  So maybe my jewelry will last longer than me and still be loved, too.

We then cruised around the island a bit more, taking in the beautiful views.  We headed to the Red Beach, and a lighthouse with amazing views on the east side of the island.  After a bit more riding around, and some lounging by the pool, we had dinner with a view and watched the beautiful sunset.  Meg told me before I left, make sure you don't miss sunset, it's an event! And she was right!  We all agreed that today was a GREAT day.  And tomorrow we're touring from 10a-10p, so it's bound to be another great one, too.  Especially now with clean clothes :).