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By now most of us have crossed the ocean, washed the Tuscan soil out of our hair, are hearing the churning of our washing machines, and after a good night's sleep, are waking in our own cozy beds. I'm sure that we're all several pounds lighter and have firm thighs and calves from climbing the rocky dirt pathways in our Chianti home...oh, wait, maybe all that pasta, daily heeps of gelato, pastries and wine might have had an effect. I have decided to avoid the scale for a few days.

What a delightful time it was for me. Mostly because of the company. We were happy to greet each other in the mornings and to work with each other all day and to dine with each other in the evenings. There was so much laughing, at times my stomach ached. It's been a long time since I have experienced that.

I learned a few things from this trip:
• My KURU sneakers never gave me a moment's thought. My feet were comfortable the entire trip--on the planes, climbing the rocky dirt roads, tromping through Sienna looking for solvent. The best I've ever had while traveling.
• Olive oil does not make a good painting medium. It drips and takes forever to dry.
• I like Chianti wine. The wine from the vineyards at Casa al Vento made Chianti Classico, from the Sangiovese grapes, ruby color with notes of cherry, violet and earthy spice (I have seen that grape in the Trader Joe's wines, but knew nothing about it). There is always a black rooster symbol on the Chianti Classico bottles. Chianti Classico has 3 quality tiers: Annata (standard), Riserva (aged longer), and the highest quality Gran Selezione (aged even longer, with stricter grape requirements).
• Think twice before using a travel agent again. 
• Our leaders, Scott and John were terrific guides. Good-natured and always available.
• Get a larger carry-on.
• Stay out of confessionals.

I'd be interested in hearing what my other travel buddies learned.

I am still hearing all your voices in my head. Thank you all for an incredible experience.

Oh yeah...One more thing I learned: bidets are great. If I ever have the opportunity to design a new bathroom, it will have a bidet.



Comments

  1. FeliceSeptember 24, 2025 at 2:45 PM

    Thank you for an unforgettable experience — so full of laughter and light and inspiration and many surprises. PS Where can I buy the 2026 Gregorian calendar?

    ReplyDelete

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