Firenze, the Renaissance City

It's been almost nine years since I last visited Florence, or Firenze as the Italians say. Almost a decade, and the city is no less beautiful, classy, or jaw-dropping... if anything, its appeal has increased and I've gained so many more happy memories here.
The last time I visited with my friend Heather, we were on a backpacking adventure, touring the entire country (and managing to squeeze in one Greek island at the end - Corfu). Needless to say, we walked the entire city dragging huge bags, so we were in no condition to climb the Duomo or the adjacent 414-step campanile next to it. Roberto and I did both this time... no need for me to do my squats for DAYS!!! And the views of Florence from atop the tower and the Duomo can't be beat.
This time we took in both the Uffizi and l'Accademia galleries... I think we only did l'Accademia last time to visit that famous Goliath-slayer, Michelangelo's David. I behaved myself this time, not taking the the camera out at either gallery... when I was 21 I snapped surreptitious pictures, getting scolded in front of the David but not caring. Now I realize how bothersome it was and I have committed the art to memory.
We found a great little Italian restaurant, La Beppa Fioraia, that we had dinner at twice. The first night I had a wonderful fresh fettuccine with sun-dried tomatoes and bacon, and Roberto had a thick steak with truffle sauce. The second night we both had pasta dishes... mine was ravioli with lard and artichokes. Lunch was typically at Roberto's favorite sandwich shop that he discovered in 2005... I Due Fratellini. This is the best deal in town and is always packed. I loved the cured meat, goat cheese, and arugula sandwich. Another American group in front of us on line the first day told us they'd seen it on the Travel Channel, so I guess the word is out!
Other than that - excellent shopping... bought a new ring on the Pont de Vecchio and a new leather purse at the Mercato di San Lorenzo, although I don't recommend the market. The buckle on my bag has already broken. Oh well, I'll buy new buckles and it will be fine.
Next we're on to Rome, the last stop on our tour, driving through beautiful Tuscany and Umbria on the way!!!