Geppa, Day VII

The goal of the day was groceries. After navigating the back road down the mountain we found ourselves in Spoleto. It was refreshing to wander around without rubbing elbows with hordes of unsavory tourists but we had to stay focused on the task at hand: gelato. With gelato in our bellies and arms full of wine, cured meats, cheeses, breads, greens and tomatoes we climbed back up the mountains just in time to beat the first rain storm of the week. Since the rain didn't look to be letting up any time soon we settled down for a quiet evening of excellent food and film.

Geppa, Day VI

On our first full day at Le Stalle the passing of hours slowed to a crawl. We welcomed the cooler weather and slower pace by building a fire, taking a walk to the neighborhood ruins, and cooking our first of several yummy italian dinners. The Eresias brought us homemade salami, cheese from a few doors down, fresh eggs from their chickens, and tomatoes from their garden. With that bounty it was difficult to justify a trip to the grocery store in Spoleto, so we sipped wine, snacked on local treats, and finished the tiramisu.

Florence to Umbria, Day V

Our last morning in Florence was cool and damp. We spent most of it at La Galerie de l'Academie visiting with David. After sloshing about San Lorenzo and browsing the market in the surrounding piazza we stopped for some belly-warming Ribollita before taking a last look at the Duomo and its Baptistry. We then jumped in our Alpha Romeo, hopped on the Autostrada, and said goodbye to Florence.

After a scary but scenic drive up and up into the Valnerina we arrived in Geppa and were greeted by the Eresia family, our new neighbors and guides to the small village. Before retiring we were treated to an incredible meal prepared by Signora Eresia as gift from the Youngs. Lasagna, local wild boar, and homemade Tiramisu, YUM.