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Dear colleague
in food writing,
Every once in a while, we get to
live our dreams.
Earlier last year, my friend Sharon
Smith – event planner and book producer
in San Francisco – told me of a stone farmhouse
she had visited in Italy’s gorgeous
Umbria region.
She described the remote location of
the house, its ancient stone and wooden beamed
structure balanced by its updated kitchen big
enough for about eight people
cooking together and enjoying the
local wines there and at the big wooden table.
I must say, I started dreaming.
Not for any reason other than the possibility of
bringing together
friends in
this, one of my favorite regions of Italy. I thought
of sharing the medieval town of Assisi in the autumn
afternoon sun, walking the cobblestones to see
the frescoes in the cathedral and also to taste
some of the local specialties of the season, such
as risotto with truffles fresh from the earth.
Then Sharon mentioned that
her friend Elizabeth
Wholey, who lives in Umbertide
where the farmhouse exists, knows a truffle hunter
who would be
willing to take a very small group out to observe
and hunt the earthy gems (see above). And there’s
a mushroom forager
and chestnut salesman… And a
woman whose family makes candles from the bees’
wax. This region of Italy remains authentic
to its past and it is for that reason that I wish
to go there to write and coach. Inspiration is
in the air, especially right at harvest when we
will be there.
I want to share this dream with YOU.
The dream began to take place, with food (as in
truffle and mushroom hunting, markets and preparing
meals with local cooks) and wine (as in vineyards,
wine tasting, wine museum and more) directing
the plan for
a week together,
of course.
The reason I’m sending you this note is
that I sincerely hope you will join me in this dream. Think about it
then say YES! and come write and enjoy the
pleasures shared by our Food Writers’ Retreat in Umbria, October 23-30, 2004.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me with
any questions:
toni@antoniaallegra.com
707-963-0777
Antonia's website
Click HERE to download Booking Form and Release
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