
A New Year is upon us! Do you have any travel plans? Half of the fun is planning a trip even though it may be a way off into the future. In the meantime, you pinch pennies and read everything you can about your destination. Most likely, you will have a map on your desk with routes marked and towns circled.
When I went to Italy for the first time 13 years ago, I never dreamed i’d become so caught up in a fascination for a country. As a result, I began this blog as a way to share my passion with others who dream of Italy like I do. And here you are!
I am delighted with your faithful companionship that has inspired me along the way to new discoveries and experiences. When I am in Italy, I think of you and seek ways to capture the essence and flavors that I know you would love. I hope you have enjoyed the journey with me as much as I have cherished the opportunity to be your Italy guide.
As many of you know, this last September I was invited to be part of a blog tour group called This Is Your Time. We traveled through parts of Umbria, Terracina in Lazio, Ponza and Ventotene Islands. It was a time of discovery for everyone, an opportunity to see and experience the real Italy through the eyes of those we met along the way.

Each of us in the group had one thing in common ~ A love for Italy and a passion to learn and share it with others. Together we spent an exciting 10 day adventure that forged many new friendships.

When I returned home, I held my new grandson with delight and thankfulness. I had turned down an offer to be a part of the blog tour last June because of the possibility of his birth. He did not come during that time but we welcomed him a few weeks later. Since I had missed the June tour, I was thrilled to be invited again in September.

If I had one wish for all of you this coming new year, it would be this. That you find great joy and peace. One thing I have discovered in all my travels is that happiness isn’t found where you physically are ~ although it may be breathtaking ~ but among those you love. I pray you will surround yourselves with them. This old cliche may be redundant but possesses deep truth ~There is no place like home.
Felice Anno Nuovo ai miei amici! (Happy New Year my friends!)
With Love,
Susan