Throwback Tuesday September 2016 II

While busy the first 3/4 of the year to get our house decorated, furnished and comfortable, in the surrounding area there was still a lot left to do. In early spring the foundation had been constructed for the new essicatoio. All farmhouses in this area used to have an essiccatoio, a small shed with an attic where the chestnuts were left to dry, while underneath smouldering wood chips would provide gentle warmth and a smokey flavour.

What it looked like before is material for another story. In september the essiccatoio grew into a proper shed with a second floor, roof and windows. Finally we have some storage for garden equipment, bicycles and all that stuff you want out of your house but within reach. The view from the road changed and the house started to look like a small Borgo.

Lunch break

We had the first tenant while waiting for the doors to be put in. As we live in the country side we are surrounded by mother nature's creatures and often they are are a reminder of how straight forward life  actually is. Neighbouring cows are roaming the roads, horses and sheep looking for shelter or green grass often come 'visit' and create a photo opportunity with humour right in front of my eyes..............

We did not eat her!!!!

My special birthday was coming up. I love celebrating my birthdays, grateful for the life I have had so far, with good friends and family. This one initially was going to be a small party, dinner and some music with our friends from Marradi and my three boys, who all live in Holland but made the effort to take a few days off to come celebrate. First surprise was that our good friends Jan and Hanneke would come, despite the fact they thought it impossible earlier.
The weather allowed for gorgeous days of hiking and enjoying the mountains surrounding us. There is always something new to discover, this time some broken off rock with fossilized wood chips. I am so lucky to have a geologist husband for expert opinions with us at all times! (Honoring my hubby Lex here!!!)

Geology class around the corner

Walking the rim above our house is a joy that never bores. In an hour and a half we walk to the village of Marradi with the most beautiful views of the Appenino Toscoromagnolo. On a clear day we can see the Adriatic sea.
Meanwhile we have discovered an abundance of Juniper berries to throw in some nice winter stews.

We were still able to be outside and have dinner at the beautiful terrace of La Colombaia overviewing the village. Once my sons Mike and Joren and girlfriend Willeke arrived we made a trip to Casal Borsetti to breath sea air and treat our skins to some vitamin Sun.

Lunch time at the beach

Beach art

My youngest son had long ago asked whether he could bring a group of his university friends one day.......it just so happened my birthday weekend was the one weekend they were all free. Second birthday surprise! Initially I had some doubts about where to put them all and contemplated on the intimate party I had in mind......but what to do? This mama loves to meet her boys' friends and we have played youth hostel many a time in the past so why not this time! I have never had a more pleasant surprise. This group of young men was the most polite, friendly, fun and awesome I have ever seen.

'Barracks'

My best American friend Susie, woman of all trades, made me a birthday cake. 

Thank you Susie!!!

The boys helped wherever they could, were grateful for our hospitality, partied with us as if they had always been part of the family and brought tears to my eyes on the last evening before they left. They created a barbecue/fire pit surrounded by little candlelights in the 'excavation' in which at a later point  my photography studio to be will be created.