Croatia Bound

Late post today as Ava and I went over to say a final goodbye to my mama before she goes off to see her sister in Zagreb this evening.

Know that she and I were supposed to be going as well.

Except I wimped out.

Anyone who has traveled with a 2 year old before will know why.

And travelling to Europe is especially daunting. 

Growing up, I spent every summer in Croatia. 

Always surrounded by lots of family. But now, there is only one sister left.

It's sad really. Life changes so much.

All of my fondest memories are there.

And I miss it.

Definitely a must-do once Ava gets just a little older.

Allow me to share my Zagreb with you. I may be crying just a little bit.

The Centre "Trg Republike"

The infamous "kaminita vrata" or "stone doors". If I had just one dollar for every time I have walked along those cobblestones. 

The government buildings in Spring

My route to the city centre

A favorite store "Kras" :: Zagreb's most famous chocolate maker

The outdoor market :: where we spent many mornings 

"Slasticarna Vincek" one of the most popular ice cream spots in the city :: where we spent most afternoons

I look at these photos and remember my aunt Zlata, who has long-since passed, hurrying off to the market in the morning before I woke up to make sure I had fresh, warm bread for breakfast.

She would barter with the shop owners to ensure she got only the best sour milk {believe me when I tell you it was fabulous} and cheese. 

We ate dinner at 5pm or so and it always consisted of whatever you had picked up at the market that day. Very different from what we eat here and much better for the diet.
Some evenings we would walk into the city centre for ice cream. Looking at the photos today, I find it strange to see a Mango store next to the beloved "Vincek Slasticarna".

Guess everything changes.
Me? I would do just about anything to go back in time and have everything be exactly as it was.

Safe travels mom. 
Can't wait to hear all the stories when you get back.