Yesterday throughout Italy, families and friends gathered after mass for warm hugs, long Easter lunches and lively conversation. Intermittent rain showers didn’t dampen any spirits, although we were happy we ate inside.
We joined some friends at their beautiful home just past Pergo, a short ride from Cortona. We’ve been before, but it is always a pleasure to return as the setting is incredible.
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Len, of course, needed to check out the 1975 Fiat 500 parked in the drive.
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The house, built in the late 1700’s, was originally a farm-house, but is now a beautifully restored/renovated home with guest house, covered pool, garage and incredible 360° views, (and it is on the market as grandchildren live too far away!)*
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We began on the terrace with a Prosecco toast.
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Then lunch was served in the dining room.
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Unfortunately, I missed taking photos of the delicious chicken with gorgonzola lunch, but desserts included a traditional Easter colombo – a dove shaped cake…
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as well as fresh strawberries and cream on sponge cake.
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After a few attempts, we even managed to take a timed selfie.
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Afterward, some of us took a leisurely stroll around the property, admiring the views…
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while others retired to the terrace.
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Many thanks to our gracious hosts, shown in a photo I took of them on our last visit.
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Pasqua and Pasquetta, Easter and Easter Monday, two holidays in Italy, the first religious, the second not. Once again today, Cortona was packed with people. In fact, both yesterday and today, there were traffic jams.
But today, Pasquetta, is a day set aside for relaxation. All the solemnity and preparation of Easter are over, and it is a day to relax, except, of course, for restaurants and retail shops who serve the masses of people enjoying a day off.
Strolling is the norm, so strolling we did. The park was filled with people,
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taking in the views.
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Others were enjoying entertainment in the piazzas, including the Old Florence Dixie Band,
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and just appreciating the beautiful day.
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Between the park and the piazza, we found an empty park bench and literally put our feet up as we took in the view.
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Late afternoon, we headed home for a brief riposo (rest) before meeting friends for dinner.
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And that’s what one does in Cortona for Pasqua and Pasquetta, a perfectly lovely few days.
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Ciao,
Judy
*Note: Many have asked me what the inside of an Italian house looks like. If interested, you can see more photos via the listing link below.
Blogging In Italy 
Aloha Judy,
I always feel like I am on holiday with you all. Thank you for sharing. By the way you look stunning and Len looks 10 years younger, the food & wine serves you well.
All the Best,
Charles on island
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Thanks, Charles, you are too kind, but truly life here does agree with us… a simple way of life filled with great friends, food, wine and long walks.
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What a lovely Easter! Wish I were there!
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It was truly lovely! Thanks!
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Wow! It all looks great, and I love the pool cover – makes me want to don my suit and check out the temperature.
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The cover came from Spain and it moves on glides – pretty amazing!
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Thank you for bringing the joys of Cortona to Casper. It was a great pleasure to
view the cuisine as well as the country side. The home appeared especially
inviting but no more so than your companions. Appreciated the Escape.
Please keep in touch
________________________________
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I figured you’d like the Fiat 500!
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You sure make it hard to wait for our usual Fall trip – lol
You both look happy and well fed.
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Yes x3
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Sounds wonderful and gorgeous views too, makes me wish I was back in Italy😊
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The views in every direction are truly gorgeous!
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This is fabulous ! What a fun day and love the photos !1 xoxo
Florence C. Connelly faclarsen@aol.com
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Thanks and glad you had a relaxing weekend too! xo
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Nice😎
Sent from my iPad
>
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Thanks!
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Gorgeous Judy!,, Hello to you and Len and wishing you both a fabulous stay again in beautiful Cortona….brings back fond memories of that region. Be well, Best regards from Gustavo and I, Hilary
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Hi Hilary, Yes, always beautiful here and lots of fun memories! Greetings to you both from us.
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What a beautiful post describing this beautiful Italian tradition of Easter and Pasquetta! I felt like I was there experiencing it all with you! We, too, had the traditional Colomba – it wouldn’t be Easter without it. Luckily we can find it in our markets, but it’s a lot more pricey than in Italy! Enjoy the Spring sunshine!
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Thanks, and by the way, spring has left us and it has been in the 30-40° these last few days!
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