Reflections on My 39 Years in Umbria

These have been remarkable days at the inn, days of utter delight and many touching moments. For six days we had, all together, guests from Wales, Boston, Belgium, France and Italy, all of whom interacted happily and meaningfully with each other. We had a TV producer, a NYC artist and gallery owner, A French teacher at the United Nations, an extraordinary young American couple (both dedicated teachers) and an Italian couple who left saying their stay put their life "back on track" after a rocky period.

I gladlyhelped out by driving around the young couple whose rental car was not available at Avis, Maurizio invited the same couple to the Sagra dell'Oca and we all ate the roast goose together, lingering until late with endless pleasant conversation. The NYC artist got Maurizio to get his paints out (paints he hadn't touched for over 10 years!) and to do some en plein air painting with him, both gaining inspiration from overlooking the valley. The artist then GAVE us the painting he worked on all day, wanting it to stay at the inn!!!!!!!! The family from Wales dashed from one fun activity to another and guests often went out for take-out pizza and then ate together on the portico.

Life's laughter was everywhere! Guests gathered together often and offered reciprocal bottles of wine to each other, enjoying each other's company. The topics of conversation were free-flowing and stimulating...and endless. I would hear, "Another round, this one is on me" Michael was invited to join when he had free time and Maurizio and I were always included when we were there.

The pool, in this beautiful August, continues to be the focal point during the days. Biking has also been enjoyed a lot with guests going together on jaunts through the beautiful countryside, stopping for photography which they then share with other guests on their viewfinders when they return to the inn.

Each departure leaves a bit of each guest with us as they write enthusiastic comments about their stay at Genius Loci Country Inn. Most promise to return.... The "spirit of place" seems to be doing its magic, just the way we had envisioned and hoped for during our restoration project, during the several years of loving and heartfelt work. Or is it simply the magic of a timeless Umbria, of the unspoiled landscape, of the pace and quality of life, an Umbria again casting its spell and enchanting its visitors?