Last year at this time, I was packing my bags for Italy, about to head off on the Italian Hilltowns Tour. We spent 12 glorious days in Italy last December, taking special note of the lovely Christmas decorations displayed in piazzas and storefronts, like this Wild Boar Santa in San Gimignano. How cute is he?
And the food! Though pasta is satisfying at any time of year, it seems to be especially warming and hearty in the wintertime. Perhaps it's just that I chose more dishes prepared ragu' style than the lighter, fresh tomato dishes that I favor in warmer weather. In any case, it's Christmastime once again, and I have wonderful memories of two tours to Italy from the past 12 months - a total of one month in the Bel Paese. What a fulfilling year it has been!
As I prepare to set up our tree and arrange our festive decorations throughout the house, I am serene, and I'm pleased that I'll be savoring this holiday season with my husband and dog instead of jetting about the world without them, but I also long for a touch of Italy. The spirit of Italy at Christmas is so palpable, so personable, so connected, so.... flavorful!
There is also news to share with you about La Contadina, the company with which I've been affiliated for several years. Giuliana, the founder and owner, has created a new website for Tours and Events/Classes: http://www.giulianasitaly.com/. Her original website, http://www.lacontadina.com/, now features her handpainted Italian ceramics and includes an awesome video of her actually creating one of her handpainted specialities. You've got to visit the website and watch the video! If you live in Utah, you can now take ceramics classes with Giuliana and make your very own work of art!
Stay tuned in the coming weeks for information regarding Tours for 2011. We will be repeating some customer favorites and introducing some new Tours! In the meantime, hug someone you love, marvel at the sparkle in the snow, and do something kind for someone. Enjoy the magic of the season, and Buon Natale :-)
Marybeth