Italians

Hello everyone,
I just returned from Italy where we went to celebrate my birthday. The Tuscan countryside where we stayed was beautiful and we all loved the little hill towns. The cathedrals, monasteries and castles are incredible as well as the old olive trees and gardens everywhere. If a person has a little plot of dirt, they have a garden. Everyone grows their own herbs.
What I learned from the Italians is that we Americans need to slow down a tad (actually a lot.) They think that "you Americans work too hard." I loved how the stores close every afternoon from 1:00 to 4:00 so folks can rest. I have to say that last week, my first week back, I missed my naps.
My family took a cooking class together in Sienna and on September 1st, at my school, I will be teaching Lela's recipes (see my calendar page.)
We all had a wonderful time, but it's good to be home.
Best of health,
Patty

P.S. Italians move fairly slow, except when they're in their cars!!