Raccogliere – To collect or harvest Country living in Abruzzo means the rhythm of life is heavily influenced by the grape and olive harvests. The grape harvest tends to be a more industrial affair, but the olives are often a family and community event. In Abruzzo it seems everyone has at least a few olive …
Tag: daily life
Expat Fatigue
The subject of Expat Fatigue appears frequently on Facebook expat groups and other forums. It comes in various forms, and often more than once during the assimilation process. Expat Fatigue is what happens when the initial bloom wears off and you are left with just day to day life. When the food is no longer …
Andrà Tutto Bene. Italy and the Corona Virus
Andrà Tutto Bene. It means – Everything is going to be ok. This has become the unofficial response from ordinary Italians to this nationwide and worldwide crisis. These homemade banners have been appearing everywhere. As of today, we have officially been on nationwide lockdown for a week. These steps have been taken for several reasons. …
Paddle Stops
Sooner or later while driving in Italy you will experience what they call the “Paddle Stop.” You will be driving down the road and there at the side will be a Carabinieri car with a couple of people in their smart Armani designed uniforms. One will be holding a little paddle. Green dot on one …
Art, Outlaws and Friends
I had the great joy to meet Luciano Caravaggio recently. He is a retired gentleman living in a comfortable home in Abruzzo with his wife and son. Luciano is a self described “outlaw.” He loves motorcycles and art and is quick with a smile. He was a fantastically talented sculptor and I only use the …