I decided to take a day trip to Santa Margherita Ligure while working in Milan last week. I always love visiting the Italian coast and Santa Margherita is quickly becoming one of my favorite towns. As I walked down the hill from the train station into the city center, I passed by the most beautiful older man and woman walking hand in hand towards me. Although I originally intended to take a day off for some swimming, something told me that this was going to be a great day for photo hunting.

Making my way through the narrow streets I noticed that almost every city bench was packed with groups of older folks chatting and enjoying one another’s company. When I came upon the elegant crew above, the woman on the left was telling a story that had the rest of them in tears. I waited until their laughter subsided  before approaching to ask if I could take their photo. They announced, “Ma noi siamo donne anziane,” before quickly pausing to allow me to take a photo and then even more quickly returning to their to their conversation.

I walked around for the rest of the afternoon taking photos and people watching, before stopping for a quick dip in the sea. As I walked up the hill back to the train station at the end of the day I couldn’t help but think of all joy filled and spirited moments I just witnessed.