Welcome and Benvenuti to all my Lovely followers around the World,
Il Liberazione Parade Certaldo. foto Archive J Finnigan
Yesterday, Saturday, was a very important day for the Italians, particularly the older generation. The 25 April is the celebration of the Liberation from the Nazis occupation at the end of World War Two. Normally, there are grand processions, medals and certificates given to the elderly, many of whom can remember that time with absolute clarity. A few years back I interviewed Gianfranco in Montespertoli and learnt first hand about the terrifying experiences of the partisans hiding out in caves and behind fireplaces. Much has been written about the French Resistance, but there are many Italian unsung heroes of that time that deserve more credit for helping to end the occupation. See my novel ‘The Italian Connection’ below, which includes some of Gianfranco’s experiences.
Meanwhile, back in the here and now, we have made the sad decision to cancel the Rock Chick Band concert in June. Whilst things may have improved by then and the restrictions lifted, we do not want to bring together friends and family and to put them at risk. It is particularly sad as it would have been our 10th anniversary as a band and I have enjoyed performing with the guys so much. But lets look to June 2021 and make sure it is a really good party!
And, on a much lighter note you will be glad to know that our lower terrace is ready to welcome you all, the minute it is safe to do so. Yesterday, my man and I enjoyed a bottle of Chardonnay there before lunch and it was glorious in the warm breeze with the perfumes wafting across from the Acacia, roses and cut grass. Whist we have been unable to go out and buy plants, the garden is still looking lovely thanks to nature’s own contribution
However, we have had one naughty creature coming into the garden and tearing out a whole circle of Irises, eating some and trailing the rest across the lawn. We found its entrance path through long grasses and it is clearly low slung and wide, so that whittles it down to a badger or porcupine! But, hey ho, the wildlife will take over soon anyway, I can feel them closing in, can’t you?
Male and female Bee Eaters Photo National Geographic
But, oh glory, the first Bee Eaters have arrived. That wonderful fast twortle ( a cross between twitter and chortle) that fills the airwaves. The birdlife here continues to amaze and delight.
Well, the weather here on the edge of Chianti has been glorious. This morning’s early stroll around the garden turned out to be nice enough to stop and sit under the European Oak tree, where one of our English Garden Benches now sits. The Acacia trees are now dripping with perfumed blossoms and the view is fantastic; we will never tire of this glorious vista. There is no longer any traffic smog down in Certaldo’s valley and the view to San Gimignano is as clear as crystal. We are so looking forward to meeting our family there for a nice lunch soon.
Meanwhile, I must once again get my head around cooking a Sunday lunch. If I prepare it early enough, I can pop it in the oven later before going down to the terrace for an aperitif or two. But what to cook? Mmmm, perhaps I’ll keep writing to you instead!
Breaking News – hurrah, it is Monday morning and we have news of the lifting of part of the lockdown! From Monday 4th May we can travel to see our family within the region, we have already organised a lunch! Parks will reopen and bars and restaurants can provide take aways. On 18 May more shops, museums and libraries will reopen. On 1st June, hairdressers and salons will reopen, thank god, and restaurants will return to normal opening! Oh heaven! Distancing measures will still be in place, but what a relief it will be.
OK, phew, now must get the fotos inserted for you to enjoy and get this blog posted.
Have a great week and do not worry, everything will be alright!
Salute June xx
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