Party for a New Citizen

Amazing grace to have such friends!

The night after Italy conferred citizenship upon me—one of the major honors of my life—my friends Silvia Baracchi, Megan and Sebastian DelBrenna, and Marco Molesini threw the party of the summer for me at Il Falconiere, Silvia’s inn and restaurant in the Cortona countryside. It was a major event! So beautiful in the twilight. Italians know how to throw a party!

Terrace at Il Falconiere, arrival with Sebastian, me, Silvia, my daughter Ashley, a piece of Ed. Silvia with the del Brennas. Menu and a few of the antipasti--pappa al pomodoro, fried zucchini flowers and sage leaves, Franciacorta on the terrace and risotto in the colors of the Italian flag

Waves of dear friends. The luck of living here is the people. We have made friends from all over the world. Everyone gathering here to live among simpatico people in a place of beauty.

Epic evening! Such attention to detail, great food, and everyone in high spirits. Loved all the pretty summer dresses, the lavish antipasti table on the terrace, the festive dinner in the stunning conservatory room, and best of all, the speeches by my dear friends. As we moved into the conservatory for dinner, guests found their table on posters with my book covers—such a charming detail.

Speeches followed. Next I'm hoping for sainthood!!

The film Under the Tuscan Sun silently played all night. I felt the accompaniment of Audrey Wells, screenwriter and director. Audrey left us way too soon and I miss her. Wish she’d been around all these years to see her movie shown throughout the world.

The evening closed with speeches from generous friends, and naturally “Volare” and other great Italian songs because in Tuscany the evening ends with dancing.

I have been basking all week in the memories of this unforgettable party and never will be able to thank my friends for their loving gesture.

Notes:

Il Falconiere is a dream location for a vacation or wedding. Outstanding hospitality. Silvia teaches Tuscan cooking in her attractive school, Cooking Under the Tuscan Sun. Lunch follows the lessons. Check the hotel for info.

DelBrenna, makers of exquisite jewelry, have shops in Cortona and a fantastic workshop/atelier where you’re served prosecco while you enjoy the ambiance. You can order online, too—they have other shops in Kansas City and Florence.

Molesini Wines, located on Piazza Repubblica in Cortona, ships internationally. If you’re in Cortona on a Thursday, Marco and Paolo sponsor, with Del Brenna, “Wine, Shine, Dine,” an evening with a renowned winemaker at various local restaurants where the chef makes a dinner to complement the wines of the night. They also arrange vineyard tours all around Italy.