First Sunday in June – Humid and Busy

Yesterday was very hot, so I decided to enjoy a quiet day in the house. I did a little baking (seriously it was 33 c and I baked) but, like my mother before me, I can’t see things go to waste. Three bananas in my fruit bowl had become an ugly shade of black. They made a great banana/chocolate cake. Cooking and baking is one of my many hobbies, probably inherited from my dear mum. I have many happy memories of meals, shared with good friends, here in Colledimezzo. The first time I cooked for my Italian friends I was terrified. They are all such fantastic cooks, and make it look so easy. Soon I became confident, and we shared many meals together. Food, wine and good conversation is what makes the world go around.
As well as cooking I packed three more boxes! How on earth did I accumulate so much “stuff” in such a short time? At least I won’t need to buy anything for the new house, I have it already, and it’s still new. The countdown is on, only 26 days until the movers come. Yikes!
I did manage to get out for a walk last night after it cooled down a little. The scent of rain was in the air, but the raindrops must have evaporated before they hit the ground, it never came to anything.

What does today hold? More packing of course, maybe a late walk again. From now until the end of July my days will be full, but then I’ll have a new area to explore. I’m nervous and excited, but I know it was meant to be.
Keep a smile everyone, a new week is about to begin!

Reflections

We invited friends to our home for lunch yesterday.
I set the table ahead of time with glasses, bowls and napkins, then stood back to see how it looked.
It was a table that invited lively conversation. It was a table set for five friends to sit and enjoy good food and wine.
I reflected on how my life has changed this year.
I no longer have crystal glasses, with matching decanters, or fine plates and bowls. I left those in the US for my my daughter to enjoy. She’s young and will appreciate them for many years to come.
My glasses don’t match, nor do my pans.
The wine is no longer $30 a bottle, but seven euros for a five liter box from the local Cantina, and much more enjoyable.
Yesterday was the first time I’d invited one of our Italian friends to eat with us, and I was terrified. We’ve enjoyed meals in his kitchen on several occasions and he is an excellent cook. Of course he brought one of his culinary masterpieces, which made our little soiree even more enjoyable. I sighed with relief when he complimented my risotto!
“You’re a good cook.” He said. I was thrilled.
Here in Abruzzo, it doesn’t matter what your glasses look like, or whether or not your plates match. What does matter is the people who sit around your table and share your food. People come first and foremost here, and thats the way it should be.
I still miss my daughter, she should have been here with us for Christmas…next year!