Wow, Bitter, I'm so sorry! Hope everything was smooth from then on.

Feedback on our similar experience, since I also highjacked and used the advice on this thread. I did pre-purchase all our ES tickets. Due to flight delays we had less than two hours after landing to board the train but it was a Saturday and thankfully we made it with plenty of time to spare. We also stayed in Florence at a hotel the first night before going to our final destination outside Florence the next day. I only wish the following week worked out as well as the first and last legs of our journey, the only parts we planned ourselves.

Thank you to all the Fodorites who patiently and generously shared their knowledge. I really appreciate it.