♦ The holidays which “officially” started on December 8th, the celebration of the Immacolata Concezione (Immaculate Conception) here in Italy, will end Monday, January 6th, le Epifania (Epiphany aka Three Kings Day). ♦
Also, celebrated on the 6th is la Befana! According to Italian folklore, she is the old woman (often portrayed as a good witch) who, when the Magi stopped to ask her for directions on their way to see the infant Jesus, initially refused. But then she changed her mind and traveling on her broomstick and looking for the manger, was unable to find the baby Jesus, so she gave any Italian child who hangs their stocking or leaves out a shoe a gift. And so the tradition continues on Epiphany Eve, thus marking the end of the Christmas season.
The Italian Tradition of La Befana (courtesy of Growing Up Italian) & my Befana!
♦ A Sparkling Holiday Season! ♦
Tis the season! Traditional garlands and decor, lots of lights, enchanting window displays and all of the tempting seasonal goodies -the holidays at their finest — and I love it!
Sparkling twinkling delightful Firenze! 
Last year I was unable to enjoy my birthday month of December due to an unexpected injury that left me housebound the entire month of December…but I healed!
December 2023..
This year, I was determined to make up for it and to write a different story! And I did! In contrast to last year, I was able to, once again, thoroughly enjoy this fabulously festive time of year here! Twinkling, shimmering, glowing, dazzling displays to enjoy while bundled up to stay warm in chilly temperatures…but it is winter (inverno) and it all adds to the very festive Christmasy atmosphere!
December 2024!
This December, in addition to the holidays, I celebrated my birth month enjoying the company of friends here and on day trips! Sharing and enjoying the gifts of the season (including ciocolotto caldo with panna – hot chocolate with gobs of whipped cream – Italian style)
Hot chocolate Italian style! 
…or toasting with a Prosecco – but always sharing our friendship— favoloso!
Cin cin!
♦ Highlights of 2024? (Hint: They include YOU!) ♦
In many ways and for many reasons, we have no regrets watching 2024 recede in our rear view mirror! However, there are also many wonderful highlights and reasons to remember and reflect upon.
Undoubtedly a highlight was helping lovely clients enjoy their travels to Italy! Thanks to wonderful referrals (thank you!!!), I am delighted to be able to continue my work – designing, creating, planning, advising, organizing and overseeing every detail of custom itineraries for lovely clients.
Collaborating with outstanding local professionals, we have and continue to co-create and help families, couples, friends realize their “dream trip” to Italy!
Smiling, happy faces of clients making memories here in Italy!
When I scroll through the hundreds and hundreds of photos my memories are rekindled and so is my gratitude! I’m reminded of all that I have experienced and am re-inspired and re-energized to continue my personal and professional deep dive into this place and to share with YOU!
♦ Hello 2025! On to the New Year! Hint: They include YOU, too!) ♦
Enthusiastic, inspired, excited, focused, hopeful, curious, passionate…grateful!
♥ As I begin my 5th year here (who knew?) I can honestly say that I have never been more excited to continue my deep dive and exploration of this place – the art, the history, the food, the people – this culture, this country that I love so much (and to share with YOU)!
♦ I want YOU to be in the photos I scroll through next December! I have always believed in the value and life changing gift of travel – and I can only hope that you resolve to give yourself that gift in 2025! And if you choose Italy (as I hope you will be it the first or 5th time), my partners and I, are waiting to help YOU design and plan YOUR trip!
♦ Say “yes”! NOW is the perfect time to resolve and give yourself the best gift ever in 2025! That dream trip to bella Italia! (There are NO indications of travel/tourism “slowing down” so if you’re waiting for the “right” or “perfect” time, it is NOW!
♥ And, please stay in touch! I’m an email away and please join me on Facebook and Instagram as I share in “real time”!
Let’s stay inspired and hopeful together! ♥
⇒ CLICK HERE & let’s take the first step together!⇐
