Living as a Part-time Italian

  Caught the tail end of the procession As I arose this morning, I thought I heard the clip-clop of horses, and upon looking out the bedroom window, it was indeed a caravan of Roma people heading toward the unknown. And that has been one of the joys of living in this small town; you never know what you will see and hear.  When we first arrived, signage for the Fratta Dell' 800 was everywhere. Living in the historical center of the town means seeing the first hints of celebrations. This particular one is a biggie. Celebrating when Italy combined its provinces and became a nation, the townspeople dressed in 19th-century costumes set up makeshift trattorias around the area and competed for prizes. The sounds of the extensive festival were heard until well after 2:00 in the morning. A week later, all businesses were closed to honor the patron saint of Umbertide, Mary. The night before, I heard a band, and sure enough, at 9:30 at night, a small parade appeared with priests, nuns, and ot

  le tartarughe After Covid, four years, and two false starts, we have finally arrived at our little house in Italy. Amazed that few things had changed, it was time to revisit the familiar sights. In no particular order: 1. Enjoying fresh orange juice and cappuccino – I enjoy an occasional coffee from Starbucks. Still, their cappuccinos are awful, so savoring a solid espresso (with or without milk) was divine. 2. Visiting the local turtles – These turtles have been here for at least ten years and seem fine. I counted at least five; apparently, they have been breeding. 3. Saying hey to Irina and Mary and having a white wine at Bar Mary. We can spend hours here watching the piazza's actions and reading. 4. Visiting the owner of Delizia Gelateria – finding that they now have dark chocolate gelato and spruced-up outdoor seating.  5. Seeing John and Katherine – these very kind people welcomed us to Umbertide many years ago and still enjoy keeping up with us. Can still see John