Excitement bubbles over, a dream coming true. Finally, an American in Venice.

Venice cinematic, a Vaporetto arrives as if on a Catherine Hepburn cue.

Grand steps of Stazione di Venezia introduce a floating city, romance lapping paved shores. Italian Charmer Bello slips into his native tongue and I to his arms.

Glasses lifted a toast begins our tale. As wine leads to wander we encounter no hustle, no traffic. Half lost and full of wonder, Bello ambles freely, captures stories he’s later to tell.

I as his shadow, eagerly anticipate the next turn of page.

Skinny streets beckon to bridges crossing canals, floating gondolas of gold.

Arriving in Giuddeca leaving tourist behind, the sun creeps to the shore. Bello’s camera snaps, a familiar refrain.

We pause in reflection, a moment captured for two.

I step back and witness Paolo at work, creating art.

As I close my eyes on a memory I hope to forever retain, Bello opens his shutter and captures our day.
Ti Amo Bello Mio