Under the Tuscan clouds

The past two days have been amazing as we walked, talked and tasted our way through Florence.  We met some lovely (and helpful) shop owner and loggediles trying to become more familiar with Florence.  The weather has been touch and go so we cancelled our Vespa rental and tackled the city by foot instead.  Turned out to be a great idea since it started pouring at exactly the time we would have been on the Vespa!  For those of you who have been to Florence you know it's hard enough to navigate the narrow roads when they are dry so I was thrilled to be walking in the rain instead of scooting! We definitely got some pampering in at the hotel and were even treated  to anniversary massages thanks to Wendy and Dani!!! What a treat. Thank you both.  Our last night in florence before heading to the villa we were told that we must have a florentine steak (which we never have had). What a delicious dinner.

Florentine steak dinner 

At the Florence market 

Terrific meat, simply cooked and beautifully presented. Thankfully portions here are far more modest than at home and Howard and I have been sharing meals (albeit multiple courses!) so we really enjoyed a wonderful steak dinner with some great wine. One of the really fun things we did before leaving Florence for the villa was visit the outdoor market.  This time I was able to buy some things since we were headed to the villa today where I could finally do some cooking. That was exciting and we even found someone selling the last of the white truffles ( season ends in late January or February ) so that was exciting. After the market we headed out with way more bags than we arrived and off to the car rental.  We got an adorable car which was intended to hold 5 passengers (very small passangers!) and 3 suitcases.  With just the two of us and our bags we barely fit!  Luckily many of the items we brought with us from Florence will be consumed here before we leave!  The weather held out and we made it to Il Luppolo Nero by late afternoon and were able to get our bearing before dark.  It is a beautiful 1400's (renovated) farm house. It has a ton of charm and many (but not all) modern conveniences. Tonight I spent at least an hour getting the fireplaces going.  I'm sure it will get easier but I sure could have used a duraflame tonight!  After the fire was squared away I made a little pasta (fresh) along with our fresh truffle and a little olive oil from the grounds of our villa.  That coupled with a glass of wine which we bought in Florence and some great company made for a perfect first night is massarosa. Love to all. Xox

Outside of villa just as you would imagine it!