Saying good-bye

We can’t help feeling a little sad as we prepare to leave Switzerland and fly back to California.

It was really, really great to have an extra-long visit after not being here for so many years, but no matter how long we stay, it’s still hard to say good-bye.

This brief video captures our last cappuccinos, accompanied by birdsong and church bells.

And how perfect that it ends with a completely unplanned but totally serendipitous ARRIVEDERCI.

Lots of pics

It’s taken an extra day to share my touristy pics due to yesterday’s post being in honor of Swami Kriyananda’s discipleship anniversary.
But now…back to Wednesday’s tourist adventures!

Part 1
Cappuccino and brioche with Peter and Aanadi in Locarno.

Peter is the choir director for Ananda Assisi, and Aanadi is an accomplished artist.
Al Porto Café Lago, situated on Lago Maggiore in Locarno.

Part 2
Santuario Madonna del Sasso. A long ways down…and back up! It’s very touching to see the many expressions of gratitude for answered prayers; “G.R.” stands for Grazia Ricevuta (or Grace Received) through the intercession of the Madonna. I have lots more photos of the beautiful interior, but they’ll have to wait for another time…

Looking down on the Santuario Madonna del Sasso.
The Madonna as she appeared in a vision experienced by the Franciscan brother Bartolomeo d’Ivrea on the night of 14/15 August 1480. 
Grazia Ricevuta plaques.
Another expression of Grazia Ricevuta are paintings depicting the specific misfortune but showing the Madonna watching over and resolving the situation.
Yet another example of Grazia Ricevuto: silver heart tokens of gratitude.
The view from the Santuario.
The back side of the Santuario as we started climbing back up the hillside.
One of four or five sections of stairway we climbed after visiting the Santuario.

Part 3
Ascona, where we celebrated our 15th anniversary next to Lago Maggiore. We ate a delicious pizza in company with a cute (and fearless) little bird!

Lakeside in Ascona.
Another view of the lake in Ascona.
The little bird who joined us for lunch; he hung out with us for quite a while!
Very European!
Beautiful wall in Ascona.