I want to be Italian!

Having just returned from teaching a workshop in Tuscany, I can say with honesty (even knowing the impossibility of it) that I want to be Italian. I want to speak English with an Italian accent and express myself in perfect Italian.  I want to spend more time with exuberant people who seem to have a great joy for living.  I want to revel in all the history and beauty. I want to eat that great food every day. I don't even care that much about ice cream, but I love gelato. I already use my hands copiously to communicate. Why not?

Oh well, I know this is impossible, but it isn't out of reach to return for a visit to teach there again. In the meantime, here's a look at some of the beauty that we experienced in oh so lovely Italy. 

Outside the Uffizi  Museum in Florence

Day trip to Cinque Terre that I took before the workshop began in Tuscany

Sienna with drum accompaniment

So many wineries, so many grapes

Blustery and beautiful

Students enjoying the view

With Michael, our program manager (and my soul sibling), right before leaving after teaching the workshop