Italy

Santa Maria Assunta

 

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My itinerary listed today as my day off.   Initially when I read that, my busy, to-do list, non-stop personality, went into panic.  Back home a day off meant from work, but chores and to-dos of my normal routine filled my “day off”.  So what was I going to do, by myself, on a day off in Italy?

First off, I slept in late…for me, 9am.  My room is very dark and the morning sun was completely hidden behind my French doors.  I actually jumped awake worried I had missed something, then realized…this was  my day off.  Honestly I had to lie there and convince myself to enjoy doing … whatever comes my way.  Il bel far niente, “the beauty of doing nothing”.

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Ask my children, friends and family…I don’t do “doing nothing” well. I can do lots of things very well, simultaneously in fact, but not “doing nothing”.  So after my breakfast, which I was treated to momma’s homemade marbled cake (I felt very special to hear that) my cappuccino and croissant, I forced my way into relaxation with my morning yoga.

image With this view before me, tranquility set in pretty quickly.

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So off I went to adventure, do nothing….and found this sign on the entrance to the town’s church, Santa Maria Assunta….

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May my life be richer and happier…I think it just has become.

imageI remember my first confession…

imageI wonder who gets to sit way up there….

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Now feeling so at peace, I walked and shopped and when hunger hit, I spotted those cute hanging tomatoes and my lunch plans were decided!

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Back at my villa, I decided to break from my day, like they do in Italy.  I picked the basil leaves right off the plant on my terrace.  Simple, perfect, life can’t get any better than this!

imageOh, yes it can…gelato on my afternoon walk about town and my first espresso in Italy!

imageDrank like a true Italian would, standing at the bar, swirled my cup, and drank it all down!

I have so enjoyed sharing my day with you.  The sun has set, it’s time to get dressed for dinner.  My very first time dining alone..ever..and it’s in Italy!  Wish me luck!

 

I love being in the kitchen. Early mornings, soft music, a hot espresso. Easing into the preparation of delicious meals. Glancing through cookbooks, gathering inspiration and planning my day. I look forward to the cycles of the seasons, the pleasures of tasting and savoring and sharing this with those dear to me. Weekends are special to me as my week days are often rushed, but still I create the ambiance, light the candles, set the table and uncork the wine.

15 Comments

  • JoAnne Steed

    Linda, your trip looks absolutely amazing!! I am taking Katie to Italy for her graduation so you will have to let me know all about that area, it has always been on my bucket list. I so enjoy reading your daily blogs about it, makes me feel like I am there. Enjoy!

    • Linda

      Hi Joanne, I’m so glad to hear from you! This has been such a great first trip to Europe. Positano is very safe and I do plan to being Gina back here, though we will travel to other places, this is the most beautiful.

  • Chica Andaluza

    Travelling alone can be hard at first. Especially dining alone in restaurants. I had to do it a lot when I travelled on business. But you take a book, just in case, make sure you order all your favourite things and some lovely wine. Enjoy the meal, look around you – people will not be feeling sorry for you, they’re probably a little envious. Mediterranean countries seem to make it easier for women dining alone. You may end up chatting to others, you may not – but don’t let anyone force themselves onto you. Just savour the moment, the meal, the wine and the place 🙂

    • spicegirlfla

      Thank you Tonya, for your kind, reassuring words. Dining alone was not so awkward. These Italian men are very friendly! My server, Niño, complimented my dress, showered me with attention and kissed me good bye!

  • Carol (LaBanco) Szafalowicz

    They say life is a adventure……….your living it and we are lucky enough
    to listen as you go. Thank you, a great simple read. Warmly, Carol from Chicago

  • Kristy

    Enjoy your dinner Linda! I’m sure it will be fabulous. Like you I don’t do “doing nothing” well at all. It takes serious practice for me. I think you did a fabulous job coming up with a things to do and made a lovely day out of it. 🙂

  • Bam's Kitchen

    Gorgeous architecture and photos and loving your trip. I have traveled with my husband to Europe on a business trip and I loved dining alone in Italy. A lovely meal, wine and always alfresco dining or near a window and I am a happy camper. Just be careful when you climb on your chair to get that perfect photo for your blog as that might draw a bit of attention. LOL

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