Monday, November 2, 2009

Saying Goodbye to Passignano

By Claire
Our last day was wonderfully relaxing. We said goodbye to Roger and Linda, our English neighbors, and felt the loss when we looked at their empty campsite. But, it was another glorious day with a beautiful sunrise and very clear skies.



We spent most of the day reading. Right now, I’m enjoying Roma, historical fiction by Steven Saylor, an academic who is apparently an expert on Rome. It begins in 1,000 BC. I’ve made it all the way to 715 BC. I’m enjoying it and learning a lot, which will make my visit to Rome that much more exciting. Did you know that Capitaline Hill is so named because a head was found buried there? You’ll have to read the book to find out.

Around 4 we decided to get ready to go visit the local castle. It was very low key and we were the only ones there. The views were spectacular and we lucked out and watched the sunset from high in the tower.

Rooftops of Passignano


Are you talkin' to me?


Castle view


View of our campground from the castle


Bell Tower at sunset


We had agreed to meet with Elisabetta at her place, #16, just under the clock tower, at 5:30. We searched and searched but the numbering system was anything but consistent. So, Chuck went down to the Tourist Information to see if the British woman there knew El and could give us directions. She did! We climbed back up the stairs to the clock tower and there she was. While drinking some wine, Chuck was given the task of carving a cross into each chestnut for roasting. El put them into the oven and while they roasted, we talked about our lives. Roasted chestnuts were a first for both of us. Peeling the hot nuts was so easy with the cross cut. What a fun, delicious appetizer!

Her home is so cozy and has the best view of the lake and the sunset. We toured her wonderful, tiny, medieval, renovated home. I was especially enchanted with her laundry “room”.





We had dinner at her friend Carlos’ restaurant, starting with the antipasto. This is always so good, I think it’s something we will order every time we can. It’s always different. I admit to moaning while enjoying.



Chuck and I both followed with lasagna, which was delicious; unfortunately, the photo didn’t turn out. Lucky for you, the grilled vegetables did. Yummmmm.



Of course we had to finish with dessert. Some kind of spectacular apple cake thing that all three of us demolished, almost before I could get a picture.





It was a great evening and I know I will always remember this wonderful place and the great people we met in the heart of Umbria. We hope to come back.

Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened. ~ Dr. Seuss

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