It is magical living in a part of the world where everyday events are considered reasons for celebrazione (celebration)! Perhaps the Tuscan's aspire to the Roman philosopher Seneca’s belief that we should “begin at once to live, and count each separate day as a separate life.” That certainly gives one reason to pause and reflect on … Continue reading Montalcino, Vino and a Buon Compleanno

Truffles are as sacred in Tuscany as red wine, pecorino cheese and olive oil. Truffles are actually a fungi and found under ground usually around tree roots such as pines and oaks. The name “truffle” is derived from the rough, wrinkly outer crust of the truffle and I relish the fact that something with wrinkles, … Continue reading Tuscan Truffles, Sows and Amore!

Every Wednesday there is a large open air market which is absolutely one of my favourite places to be. Do not miss it if you are in Tuscany! The Siena market is held near the Fortezza Medicea parking area, beginning early in the morning. I have seen the market times noted as being open from … Continue reading Siena’s Markets

Many of the best moments in Tuscany and life occur by happenstance. A moment such as this occurred when my husband and I went for an espresso and dolce a few weeks ago.  We recognized a man from a social event at Christmas, although we had not been formally introduced. The Cafe proprietor seated us … Continue reading Renaissance Man

San Gusme, is an intimate medieval village located in the commune (municipality) of Castelnuovo Berardenga, just outside of the Arceno estate that I call home. The lands of San Gusme and Arceno abut and if they were sitting at a dinner table, I would say they “rubbed elbows”. The village was founded in the late … Continue reading An Intimate Medieval Village