There are not enough words (at least not in the English language…maybe there are in Italian) to describe how beautiful this place is. The sights, sounds, smells…. everything feels so much more natural and wholesome. The way of life here is something preserved from a different time.

Just last night, after our four course dinner, we walked around this little village of Cortona to take in the evening sights. Apparently, everyone else had the same idea! This sort of “evening stroll” is a completely normal community activity in this area of the world. The entire Cortonese population seemed to be out — walking through the steep, winding streets; eating gelato on the steps of the piazza; drinking coffee or beer or whatever at the local bars and cafes; talking closely with a loved one or watching children dance with their teddy bears (yes, we actually saw this one). It is like something out of a movie, except that it is completely real in a way that makes you never want to leave.

There is nothing better than being absorbed in something you love — and yet the one thing that improves upon any experience is to be surrounded by those whom you love. I wish you could ALL be here to experience this with me. One day when I’m rich (haha) we will take a big vacation here!