♥ Epilogue…
I “know” that you’ve all been waiting and wondering…”did she or didn’t she?”
Back in April I wrote and shared about detours, changes and challenges that had occurred in my community. Challenges that were stark reminders of just how very fragile all that we hold near and dear is.
Those events and the aftermath gave me pause to reflect and led to the realization that my own creative juices had taken a detour and were somewhat derailed… that I was in need of some time for introspection, some perspective…indeed, my elusive muse was in need of inspiration.
I also shared that, for personal reasons, it was a rather difficult decision but, ultimately, thanks to several generous invitations and listening to my heart…I was compelled to return to the place where I have always found that inspiration… in hopes of re-igniting the spark and “cercare, gustare, amare” (seeking, savoring and loving)…with passion. Ask questions, seek answers or, at the least, be available should that inspiration tap me on the shoulder… of rekindling my “la dolce vita”. Hence, my trip plan unfolded.
In truth, as it turns out, I didn’t have as much time for quiet introspection as I thought I would but, in truth, as it turns out, it didn’t really matter and I had nothing less than a sensational time!
Unlike my previous (seven!) trips to Italy over the past four years which included hosting tour groups, my focus and attention was very different. This trip would be just me and Italy for five weeks.
♥ Cercare: Seeking…
Seeking both new and familiar places through new eyes… Although I had a rather ambitious itinerary, I really had no “expectations”, just an open mind and heart. Peeling back new layers in familiar places and the sense of being a stranger and learning in new was exciting and revitalizing.
Click on any photo for a virtual tour!
♥ Gustare: Savoring…
Savoring, experiencing and appreciating six diverse regions in, literally, every sense of the word was such a “wow”!! New tastes, new sites, new friends and experiences…absolutely marvelous.
Click on any photo for a virtual tour!
♥ Amare: Loving…
Loving every minute… I was filled to the brim with generosity, kindness, pure joy and, if it’s possible, an even deeper love, affection and connection for Italy and all things Italian…and, especially gratitude, to everyone that I met and spent time with…precious connections.
Click on any photo for a virtual tour!
So how can I not help but be inspired? By the country and culture that resonates so deeply in my cherished roots? And touched, profoundly touched, and thankful for the warmth and generosity extended to me.
♥ Prologue:
So, what’s next, you ask? Ah, exciting new and inspired possibilities are percolating and being formulated as I write (and, of course, they include YOU)!
♥ Si, la dolce vita for me and for YOU! ♥
Si, I want to bring MORE of the Italy that I love to YOU! So, please stay tuned and stay in touch!
In case you missed my on-the-road posts please meet…
♥ Friends of Victoria ♥
It All Began in Tuscany & Le Marche with Luisa & Piero
More Tuscany in Chianti Country with Arianna & Alessio of KM Zero Tours
Off to Italy’s Green Heart, Umbria, with Alina & Lucia of Fontanaro
Florence – Ah, Florence…Where There’s Always More!
Bologna – Where My Gelato Dream & More Comes True!
Palermo – Italy’s Capital of Culture 2018 (& Deservedly So!)
Lecce – Back to the Salento…the Perfect Finale to a Perfect Trip!
