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The Next Chapter - Book Dates, Italy Adventures, An Extract of my Book “Cortona”…11 Aug 202400:41:51

"So this is it. I am thirty nine years old. I am sitting at a table in a medieval piazza with a black moleskine journal. I am sipping a glass of Chianti Classico. I stare at the menu with none other than Luca Signorelli on the cover. I like the words Gran Caffe Signorelli. Luca Signorelli was born in Cortona in 1441. He is still revered. Signorelli’s art is in many of the museums and churches in Cortona and well, all around the world. I salute the artist, and the joy of making it this far, on this grand tour of mine. Alone and happy with a pen and journal, to just muse, people watch and write notes" - Michelle Johnston, In the Shadow of a Cypress

Welcome to Episode #97:

After a small pause, I return to share Book release dates, an extract of my audio-book in the making and some exciting news.  I couldn't help but share the journey so far and what has been happening and what's to come next!!

'In the Shadow of a Cypress: An Italian Adventure' is due out on the 13th September, 2024 - Stay Tuned for more soon!

Find all Shownotes at  michellejohnston.life

© 2024  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life
Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2024

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Children of the Volcano with Travel Writer and Author Ros Belford20 Jun 202400:51:59

"Time in Italy seemed less linear than it was at home, more of a space waiting to be filled with whatever delights the day might bring – exquisite miniature pastries behind the etched glass of an art nouveau window, a sliver of cantaloupe on a market-stall holder’s knife, amber and pink spritzes on a waiter’s tray, a flirty glance, a raised eyebrow, a tanned ankle in a tasselled loafer"  -  Ros Belford, Children of the Volcano

Welcome to Episode #96: 

Get ready for a wonderful adventure today with Ros Belford - Travel Writer, Journalist and Author of Children of the Volcano: Finding Freedom and Making a Home for Three in Sicily.  Enjoy this conversation and read her book - it’s a wonderful account of making a life in Italy and following the call.

Note: Ros Belford reads excerpts from her book, Children of the Volcano...

*Arriving on the island of Salina 16:29
*Discovering and falling in love with Italy  23:28
*The path of miracles  33.25

Children of the Volcano: Finding Freedom and Making a Home for Three in Sicily by Ros Belford

Children of the Volcano tells the story of motherhood and childhood on the Sicilian island of Salina. Izzy and Juno grow up playing on the beach, learning to swim over volcanic bubbles, hearing tales of Aeolian witches, fighting battles armed with jellyfish and watching Stromboli erupt on the horizon. But nowhere is paradise. The school is atrocious, the teachers scary, and there are power cuts, storms and an earthquake. However, an eclectic community of islanders take them to their hearts, friendships are forged and Salina becomes home. Full of humanity, vitality, honesty and optimism, Children of the Volcano is for anyone unwilling to give up dreams of adventure and excitement simply because of parenthood, lack of money and not getting things right the first time.

Visit Ros for travel guides, articles and more at Ros Belford

On Instagram: Ros Belford

Find all Shownotes at  michellejohnston.life

© 2024  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life
Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2024

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In Good Company31 Dec 202300:24:13

"One will never forget the sudden transcendent quality of ordinary things, the glow of the fruit in its own leaves, the purple and green of artichokes with bushy tales, the delicacy of the sea creatures, silver, lilac - pale and coral red" - Winter in Venice, Pleasure and Landscapes by Sybille Bedford

Here is some light musing over books I have loved this year and my favourite Audible listens too....

Family Lexicon by Natalia Ginzburg
A Place in the World: Finding the Meaning of Home by Frances Mayes
Serendipity: From Truffles and Champagne to Corn Flakes and Coffee: Stories of Accidental Success by Oscar Farinetti
Four Seasons in Rome: On Twins, Insomnia and the Biggest Funeral in the History of the World by Anthony Dooer
Pleasures and Landscapes: A Travellers Tales from Europe by Sybille Bedford 
Liguria in Cucina: The Flavours of Liguria by Enrica Monzani

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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© 2024  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life
Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2024

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Allison Zurfluh and the Venice Lagoon - La Mia Arte28 Dec 202302:07:57

"Some things are here for our souls, not our interests, and every land has its pockets of wild. Let us leave then there for the birds, for the night watch, for the person who needs and longs for a creeping into invisibility"

Welcome to Episode #86:

This year Allison published her third book,  'Allison Zurfluh and the Venice Lagoon'.  Here are pages of art and essays on her experiences living on the Venice lagoon.  

The book is an intimate look at the place that captured her heart and soul, the place that would initiate a 1000 questions and responses. 

There is a part that Allison conserves for family and her Swiss life, and there is a part she lives quite on the fringe of everything… In Italy, on the Venetian lagoon… Searching, exploring, painting, writing, documenting, playing and sharing, yet really going to the edge of what is possible, in her boat, in her art and in herself.  Nothing is taken for granted.  Not her environment, not her choices, not the people, not the place. Zurfluh recognises the plight of the Venetian lagoon, the wild beauty, the breathtaking moments, the natural world and at times, the painful truth of the tourist dollar.

We discuss so much.... Art and motherhood, the writing life, living on the island of Burano and protecting the fishing communities on the lagoon, going into the wilderness to be alone to find what matters, creativity and grit, and indeed many personal stories of our own reckoning with the parts of our lives that make us who we are as women and artists at this point in time.  We don't hold back and that is why I published this whole conversation in one beautiful thread.  Hopefully you are on one of those long walks you need over the festive season and you can enjoy this share ....

Here is a wild and beautiful conversation from one wild and beautiful woman to another.  Allison is not only happy to rock the boat, but paints from it too, sharing her gifts, lighting the way, protecting the sacred and reminding us, that we all make a difference in this wild and beautiful world we live in.  Enjoy 

To buy Allison’s Books and Fine Art Allison Zurfluh
On Instagram: Allison Zurfluh
Listen to my last conversation with Allison in 2022… Allison Zurfluh: Art and Conservation in the Venice Lagoon

Minutes and Moments in this Conversation:
14.00 - Motherhood and the Artist
31.40 - Women and Creativity
41.45 - How Allison nurtures her Art and Creativity as a portal to becoming
44.00 - The Venice Lagoon as a mirror
51.00 - Nature for pain relief
58.00 - How Allison discovered Burano and moved to the Lagoon
   1.07 - The Writers Journey
   1.08  - La Mia Arte & the Fisherman
   1.39  - Transcending the Mundane with Words  - "One true Sentence"

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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© 2023  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life
Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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Cucina Povera & the Art of Making Do with Food Writer Giulia Scarpaleggia09 Dec 202300:33:12

“Cucina Povera is not just a unique approach to cooking and ingredients; it’s the highest expression of the Italian arte delle arrangiarsi - the art of making do with what you have got" - Giulia Scarpaleggia, Cucina Povera

Welcome to Episode #85,

Today a wonderful conversation with Giulia Scarpaleggia about her recent cookbook Cucina Povera: The Italian Way of Transforming Humble Ingredients into Unforgettable Meals.

We talk about the book journey of creating Cucina Povera and that lovely panforte story I couldn't resist asking about, and the food writers that have inspired Giulia on her path from Blogger to Author to Podcast Host and Cooking Teacher.

Visit Giulia and Tommasso at  Jul's Kitchen
Receive Giulia’s Stories and Recipes - Letters from Tuscany
Follow on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/julskitchen/

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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© 2023  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life
Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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Cookbook Author Tessa Kiros: Now & Then28 Oct 202301:05:59

"I travel and collect things that I love.  Memories, tastes, colours and stories. I bring them home and make the beautiful meals I had, so we can live them all over again" - Tessa Kiros, Now & Then:  A collection of recipes for always

Welcome to Episode #84:

Tessa Kiros is here today, her most recent book is 'Now & Then:  A collection of recipes for always'.   This is Tessa’s 11th cookbook.  This is a beautiful conversation about Tessa’s writing, her creative life, food and styling, the travels, and how she sees the world and the things that inspire.  Make yourself a pot of tea and relax into this share.  Tessa was at home in Tuscany, when we spoke about 'Now & Then' and what inspired this book.  Thank you Tessa, so much, for this bountiful and generous conversation.  Enjoy…

Visit Tessa Kiros on Instagram at Tessa's Travels

Find Tessa’s books at Tessa Kiros:  Food and Travel Books

Visit Murdoch Books for More....

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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© 2023  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life

Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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On Living a Bigger Life21 Oct 202300:37:09

"Much testing, much reflecting, much living must intervene before we can say 'My soul is my own'"  -  Madonna Kolbenschlag,  (from) The Spiritual Sampler by Sue Monk Kidd

Welcome to Episode #83,

While in the middle of a big year, I reflect on what has filled my cup this year and why it all matters.

On creating community, on inspired books, on writing, on keeping on with it, on the adventure, on gratitude, on the special conversations and holding the vision.

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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© 2023  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life

Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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Luca Spaghetti - Anything is Possible!04 Oct 202300:34:42

"My grandmother always used to tell me your last name is going to bring you luck.  When people meet you it makes them happy and a little bit hungry too" - Luca Spaghetti, Un Amico Italiano -  Eat Pray Love in Rome

Welcome to  Episode #82:

Twenty years ago the writer Elizabeth Gilbert made the city of Rome her home for three months before visiting India and Bali.  While living in Rome one of Gilbert’s new friends was Roman born Luca Spaghetti.  Soon the memoir “Eat Pray Love: One Woman’s Search for Everything” became an International Best Seller.   Luca Spaghetti suddenly found himself as a character in the book and later in the film “Eat Pray Love”.  

Today is a special guest - Luca Spaghetti telling his story about this beautiful chapter in his life and the treasured friendship that endures.  We talk about the two books he wrote “Un Amico Italiano - Eat Pray Love in Rome” and “Anything Is Possible”.  They are two of my favourite books, and a real delight to read and discover. 
Enjoy this share, and thank you Luca for a beautiful conversation.

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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© 2023  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life

Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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Ms Britaly and Life in Southern Italy as an Expat09 Sep 202300:43:52

"I just knew that I had to figure it out for myself, step by step" - Claire Hearn,  My Five Year Journey in Italy....

Welcome to Episode #81,

This week I share a conversation with Ms Britaly from Palermo in Sicily.  Five years ago, Claire Hearn made the decision to change her life and move in the direction of her dreams.  Claire landed in Salerno in Campania, on the Amalfi Coast and started a new life.  
Here is her story and the journey of life in Italy, moving to vibrant Palermo and writing her two books, self publishing and her discoveries and life adventures….

Enjoy,

Claire’s Links:

Visit for Insights on the South of Italy and More -  Ms Britaly

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/MsBritaly 

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/MsBritaly

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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© 2023  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life

Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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The Travel Journal - how and why you should make one!26 Aug 202300:31:36

“And we are of course, each one of us, the historians of our own lives” - Hisham Matar, A Month in Siena

Welcome to Episode #80;

In this episode I share pages from ‘Italian Hours’ a travel journal I am in the middle of creating.  I share my feelings about creativity and my artistic process on making pages happen!  I also give tips on stationary, art paper and how to build the momentum one page at a time and not get stuck in feeling overwhelm at the beginning. I talk about art journals and travel journals and at the end read from my art book ‘Italian Hours”…

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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© 2023  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life

Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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Casalvento: House of the Wind with Author and Winemaker Gudrun Cuillo26 Jul 202301:03:34

"I thought I had the perfect life in New York, but fate had something different in mind for me.  I've fallen in love with this place and what it has to offer"  -   Casalvento: House of the Wind by Gudrun Cuillo

Welcome to Episode #79:

About twenty five years ago, Bob and Gudrun Cuillo were looking for a place to buy in Capri Italy, not far from Benevento, near Naples where Bob had family ties to the region.   The Capri property fell through and next they found themselves in Tuscany talking to friends when they were introduced to an ancient Borgo in Radda, Chianti that might be up for sale.  A week later they were the owners of medieval Casalvento, a hamlet of land and historic buildings.  Bob And Gudrun didn’t even realise there was a vineyard, and on the ground were vines of Chianti Classico.   Bob and Gudrun’s fate was sealed and the next twenty years or so were spent restoring the vineyard, the olives and the Borgo, amongst other projects in their busy and creative lives. Later they purchased more land close by, a medieval hamlet called Livernano and onwards they went.  

Today I introduce to Gudrun Cuillo and her book of fiction Casalvento - House of the Wind.  If you love a book set in Italy, and heart thudding, more palpitations set in the beautiful hills of Tuscany, but not just Tuscany that Italian Ideal, the Italian beauty Chianti, one of the oldest settlements ancient Radda, and if you love a little romance and travel, and Italian history and a story that makes you want to jump on a plane, well as soon as possible,  well then Casalvento: House of the Wind is a book to escape with, wherever you are in the world.

Gudrun’s estate these days makes award winning wines, Chianti Classico, Chianti Riserva, those gorgeous Super Tuscans and much more.  You can also stay and sip at your own leisure, do cooking classes, and wine tours, but mostly if you are intrigued you can visit her website Livernano Winery and Resort and follow Gudrun on Instagram at livernano_casalvento_ ….

Or just listen along and enjoy Gudrun’s story about the vines, the wine making and the writing journey.  And the surprising and wonderful process of becoming a fiction author, something she turned to at a time of grief and loss.  You can find her book Casalvento:  House of the Wind at all the usual places. 

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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Emiko Davies - Tuscan Life and Enoteca Marilu15 Jul 202300:56:23

"We will cook together, you’ll don an apron and get your hands dirty, learning about local traditions on the way.  We eat and drink together, tasting wines chosen by Marco. Afterwards, in the late afternoon and evenings, you are free to go and explore or rest or catch up with family....."

Welcome to the Episode #78:

In this bountiful share we talk about Emiko Davies and Marco Lami’s new Adventure, Enoteca Marilu in the village of San Miniato in Tuscany.  We talk Slow Food and Slow Travel and why they wanted to create their own Natural Wine Shop and Cooking School close to home.  

We discuss Emiko’s cookbooks and the next publication,  ‘Gohan: Everyday Japanese Cooking Memories and Stories from My Family Kitchen’ that is due out September 2023.   One cannot resist asking Emiko a 100 questions about her books and the food writing journey.  We discuss ‘food’ and the journey to creating her beautiful cookbooks.

Enjoy….

If you want to spend time at Emiko and Marco's Tuscan Table visit:  Enoteca Marilu

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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Strange Fruit, Italian Lessons, Dreaming of Sicily19 May 202400:25:41

"Perfection is static, and I am in full progress" - Anais Nin

Welcome to Episode #95:

Today I go on a whimsical journey through my process! Reading and working on my book. The book is done!  Yet, I am most keen to record an audiobook first - so here I go. It’s a journey of ruminating over recent books I have read and what is happening IRL and certainly what is on my mind! There are quotes and beautiful moments to capture along the way, nothing is lost and life is good. 

Enjoy xo

Find all Shownotes at  michellejohnston.life

If interested in the list of beautiful books I have explored on Italy - Here is the List
( 90% I have read, the rest are on the shelf! )

P.s - Never under estimate a good bookshelf, nor the potential of it. I liken it, to planting bulbs at the end of summer - something to look forward to down the track when spring finally arrives!

© 2024  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life
Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2024

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R is for Rome - The Writers Life with Michelle Ciani28 Jun 202300:52:33

"R is for Rome.  Roma is my Lupa, the She-Wolf.   She is mother and my muse" - Michelle Ciani, Letters from Rome

Welcome to Episode #77:  

Michelle Ciani lives in Rome, Italy.  Through her writing and journals, she explores place, home, identity and belonging.  Rome is the muse, the portal and the inspiration behind her words and letters.  Life is a quest.  Some of have a sense of belonging and some of us search for it.  Here we talk about living in Rome and searching for identity and place.  A place can mean many things, but what if a city takes you under their wing and points the way?  

R is for Rome, Michelle Ciani writes letters to her city and she mails them all around the world to people who want to connect and feel that Roman magic.  We speak of Michelle’s writing journey and daily journal writing as a tool for introspection and therapy.   We talk about writing memoir and her connection to the region of Basilicata. 

This is a great chat if you are interested in the writing journey and living the creative life.  And yes, all roads lead to Rome.

Visit Michelle Ciani:  Letters from Rome

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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In Sardinia: An Unexpected Journey in Italy with Jeff Biggers23 May 202301:05:05

“Far from a fleeting moment in history, or a stack of stones, the open museum of Sardinia recounted a story of foundations; a story of birth and rebirth, of endurance and resilience, and re-use, and a story of rituals and cross cultural ways that had made the island the staging ground of civilizations that not only shaped its own peoples, but the rest of the Mediterranean” - Jeff Biggers, In Sardinia: An Unexpected Journey 

Welcome to Episode #76,

Today, I have a wonderful conversation with Jeff Biggers - Historian, Journalist, Author and Travel Writer about his new book: In Sardinia An Unexpected Journey In Italy.  

This is a rich and expensive conversation not only about the convoluted history of Sardinia and the culture, but illuminates a part of Italy that many are yet to discover…..Biggers excavates stone by stone, poet by poet and layer by layer and gives us a fresh perspective on the island and the Sardinian culture, and what’s more he is a wonderful storyteller.  

In the book and conversation you will discover: 

The Nuragic Civilisation, Neolithic Sites, The Blue Zones, Sardinian Food and Wine, the Artists and Writers (described as an island of narration) and much more....

Book Link:  In Sardinia: An Unexpected Journey in Italy

Enjoy,

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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The Road Less Traveled - Eat Pray Love - A Book Journey20 May 202300:19:39

"What if you could somehow create an expansive enough life that you could synchronize seemingly incongruous opposites into a world view that excludes nothing?” - Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat Pray Love

Can a book be mythical and kind of a life time journey.  Yes it can!  This a story about the book Eat Pray Love and the journey I have had with this book….

Episode #75

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michellejohnston.life

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Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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Italian Inspiration - An Invitation....19 May 202300:09:35

 “And I do believe that Italy really purifies and ennobles all who visit her. She is the school as well as the playground of the world.” – E. M. Forster

Welcome to Episode #74

Q..  Do you have a story you would like to share with me on Italy?

I am open to a personal letter or a Voice Message that I will share or read on a special Podcast Episode or 2 on your Italy!!

Possibilities…..

*️⃣ Moving to Italy

*️⃣ Starting a Business

*️⃣ Starting Again, Second Life!

*️⃣ Taking a Risk

*️⃣ Food, wine, Seasonal Splendour

*️⃣ Writing a Book

*️⃣ Family Heritage

*️⃣ Love Letter to Italy

*️⃣ A Book that changed you!

*️⃣ Inspired at home outside of Italy

Send letter, MP3, or Voice Message (I can edit/enhance audio) to:
⏩ 
23colours@gmail.com

Please give permission to use via email and add your Instagram or Business name or Website to Share with the Story

Audio/MP3- 20 minutes max!
Or send 2 separate emails (I will edit) Sent from my iPhone


Or join me on the Podcast - Submit your story to me via the Email! 

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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Less is More, Except when it comes to Books! With Laura Botten...07 May 202300:39:45

"The Thing about Rome is that it always manages to give you something special" - Luca Spaghetti, Un Amico Italiano - Eat Pray Love in Rome

Welcome to Episode #73:

Italy seems to find its way into many people’s hearts whether it be through the world of books or the joy of a holiday experience.  It is always fun to have a conversation about favourite books and discovering how Italy has played a significant role in a travel journey or a writing project.  

Here is a fun chat with Laura Botten about her favourite books set in Italy and that special trip to Rome that led to her writing her first book!

Visit:  Laura Botten
Follow Laura on Instragram:   @laurabotten
Laura's Book - A Recipe from Rome
Book Quote shared in the Podcast: by Luca Spaghetti, Anything is Possible

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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The Art of Devotion and the Black Madonna with Stephanie Georgieff05 Apr 202300:57:10

"The Black Madonna represents a time of direct connection.  She is the spiritual connector.  She is the energy behind creation. We are to bring our thinking into our heart and have this influence our deeds" - Stephanie Georgieff,  The Black Madonna: Mysterious Soul Companion

Stephanie Georgieff is the host of the Black Madonna Speaks Podcast.  We had a most marvellous and deep conversation about her work, books and her journey with the Black Madonna.   The questions and quotes from this episode are related to her book The Black Madonna: Mysterious Soul Companion if you are curious to know more.  

Black Madonnas are scattered all over the globe, yet Italy is one of the places they seem to proliferate (France and Spain too).  You can visit places like Venice, Positano, Loreto, Rome, Tropea, Naples and Sicily to see the shrines and sacred sites, if of course you haven’t already.  

There are Marian trails and pilgrimage routes all over Italy and a vast history that has many people exploring Europe and beyond to know more.  Stephanie’s devotion to uncovering the heart of the Black Madonna is quite a triumph.  She describes herself as a practical mystic and each week on her Podcast shares a unique story, of a unique Black Madonna, from a unique place at  The Black Madonna Speaks

You are welcome to email me at 23colours@gmail.com if you would like to share your story or experience of The Black Madonna….

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

Support Stephanie Georgieff via the Patreon Community

Listen to Stephanie's Podcast:  The Black Madonna Speaks

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Drink Wine and Be Beautiful with Kimberly Sullivan28 Mar 202300:47:54

"It was only decades later, in my little house here in the shadow of the Apennines, that I was completely free to forge my own path"  Shadow of the Apennines, Kimberly Sullivan

Welcome to Episode 71:

Kimberly Sullivan works in International Development by day and moonlights as a fiction writer by night.  Kimberly has written three books that she has Independently Published, and her fourth book is due out very soon Drink Wine and Be Beautiful.   Kimberly lives in Rome Italy, and is a member of the Women’s Fiction Writers Association and the Historical Novel Society.  Her books trace themes of identity and women’s lives.  

This is a fun chat about Italy, books, self publishing, writing resources and of course the writing process (the fun part!) And any time great authors like Jane Austen, Edith Wharton, EM Forster, Lord Byron and Henry James come up in a conversation well, all is well in my world.  Enjoy.

Visit for books, news, blog and travel news:     Kimberly Sullivan   &  @kimberlyinrome

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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© 2023  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life

Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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Art and Love: Peggy Guggenheim (Part 2)02 Mar 202300:22:06

"In writing about Peggy, it's important to listen to one's own instincts. Don't listen to critics.  What do they know? What one should say about Peggy is, simply, that she did it. That no matter what her motivations were, she did it"  - Lee Krasner

Welcome to Part 2 of my epic share on the 20th Century Art Collector and Art Patron Peggy Guggenheim...

Here is the story of Peggy's life in Venice..... and what happened next!
Enjoy

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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© 2023  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life

Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

* Note: The Picasso art mentioned in the podcast in the gallery detail (18.30min)  is - On the Beach, 1937....

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Art & Love: Peggy Guggenheim (Part 1)17 Feb 202300:27:50

“I have never been in a city that gave me the same sense of freedom” - Peggy Guggenheim, Out of this Century: Confessions of an Art Addict

Welcome to Episode #69:

Are you dreaming of visiting Venice and one of the iconic galleries  on the Grand Canal - The Peggy Guggenheim Collection?

If you would like to know more about Peggy Guggenheim (1898-1979) listen to the story of her life and how she found herself searching for a palazzo and a place to share her art collection with the world. 

Here is the kaleidoscope of Peggy’s life and how she became a 20th Century icon in the art world. 

Find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

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Music Composed by Richard Johnston © 2023

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Love in a Tuscan Kitchen with Sheryl Ness (Part 2)07 Dec 202200:38:03

"The old cypress trees along the ancient noble roads stand tall as if to welcome you into their home"  -  Sheryl Ness, Love in a Tuscan Kitchen

Welcome to Episode #68,

This week I share Part 2 of my conversation with Author Sheryl Ness about life in Tuscany and the writing of her book Love in a Tuscan Kitchen: Savouring Life Through the Romance, Recipes and Traditions of Italy.

Today we talk about the traditions at the Italian table, book authors, writing, the writing process, language studies and more. 

I must add this book is for someone who enjoys the sensual pleasures of life.  It is a tale that talks to the heart of taking risks, weighing up the possibilities and then leaping into the great unknown.  I love that not only is this a memoir, but a cookbook too.  I think these days this is one of my favourite genres in writing where both parts weave seamlessly as the journey evolves.

Visit Sheryl Ness Love in a Tuscan Kitchen

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Rome’s Last Noble Palace, Cafe Culture and Great Writing Advice with Fiction Author Kimberly Sullivan15 May 202400:49:21

"Be kind to yourself and just get going, because even if you are just writing a little bit, for a few hours a week - it adds up" - Kimberly Sullivan

Welcome to Episode #94:

Today I have a conversation with fiction writer Kimberly Sullivan and her recent novel Rome’s Last Noble Palace.  Kimberly loves to weave a story that includes a contemporary and a historical perspective, in this case dual timelines. It is quite an alchemical process and a wonderful story about two women from different centuries in Rome, with one place in common - the Palazzo Brancaccio. 

Kimberly and I have beautiful chat about the writing process. Kimberly shares great advice on fiction writing and how she approaches the craft and the creativity of bringing it all together on the page and into book form.  

This is a lovely chat about her book Rome’s Last Noble Palace and Kimberly’s writing and traveling adventures in Italy - Enjoy….

Rome’s Last Noble Palace by Kimberly Sullivan

Two women. Two different centuries. One attic room

Visit for books, news, blog and travel news:  Kimberly Sullivan &  Instagram @kimberlyinrome

Feisty Deeds: Historical Fictions of Daring Women at Net Galley

Listen to our first conversation on the Podcast Series: Drink Wine and Be Beautiful
Nb: Women's Fiction Day is on June 8, 2024....

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Love in a Tuscan Kitchen with Sheryl Ness (Part 1)26 Nov 202200:31:36

"Everything around me gave me a feeling that I was at home, from the foods to the people and the unique landscape.  I was falling in love"  -  Sheryl Ness, Love in a Tuscan Kitchen

Welcome to Episode #67,

Today I share a wonderful conversation with Sheryl Ness about her time in Tuscany and her memoir, Love in a Tuscan Kitchen: Savouring Life Through the Romance, Recipes and Traditions of Italy. 

I think Sheryl’s story is very special because she had a connection to Italy without understanding exactly why.  But she followed the thread and the inkling, and something very interesting happened.  She found the one.  And it didn’t just happen in a linear or obvious way.  Her path lead her from one thing to the next, then it happened rather last minute, quite randomly, over a piece of chocolate cake!  

There is so much I love about this book…Taking risks and following the heart’s needle, and really trusting the bigger picture, that something very beautiful wants to be revealed.  In this case, it turned into a great Tuscan adventure and one that continues to delight and surprise you.

Visit Sheryl Ness Love in a Tuscan Kitchen

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Sumptuous Venice with Margie Miklas18 Nov 202200:50:02

“The appeal of this floating city built on stilts in a lagoon is real.  Venice remains a place always beckoning me to return.  Far from perfect, this island shaped like a fish entices me” -  Margie Miklas, Introduction, The Venice I Know

Welcome to Episode 66,

Margie Miklas has a special connection to Italy as a second generation Italian/American.  Come along for a sweet conversation about Margie’s Italy.  
We discuss her book and travel guide “The Venice I Know”.  And lots more on travel writing, favourite places in Italy, solo adventures, films set in Venice and more… 

Enjoy, 

Book:  The Venice I Know by Margie Miklas

Visit the website:   Margie in Italy
Instagram:                  Margie Miklas

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Windows into Italy: Lets visit Padova in the Veneto03 Nov 202200:37:42

"And we travel, in essence, to become young fools again - to slow time down and get taken in, and fall in love once more"  -  Pico Iyer,  'Why We Travel'

Welcome to Episode #65:

The thing is Italy has so much to offer.  Twenty regions and each with something special and unique.  I wanted to share all of the beautiful things about the city of Padova or Padua (in English) in the Veneto and give you a dose of what is possible if visiting the Veneto.  I loved staying in this city as a base to explore the region, and then went back for more of the Northern Italy in April this year…. 

Here is a window into the many reasons you need to go, and some of the history and ambience on the historical and cultural gem of a place.

Enjoy, and email or DM me if you get inspired to go. I would love to hear!!

See show notes for every place/link/book detail shared.  And a photo montage if wanting a visual snapshot of Padova.....

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Book Lovers & Artists Unite…Here are a few of my favourite things15 Oct 202200:19:13

Welcome to Episode #64:

I couldn’t resist but share a few books and artists that are truely inspiring me and feeding my spirit in the realm of Muse Italia.

Enjoy,

The Art of Excellent Products: Enchanting Customers with Premium Brand Experiences by Riccardo Illy 

A Place in the World:  Finding the Meaning of Home by Frances Mayes

Visit:  Frances Mayes for the Book Club Questions and Reading Guides….

Discovering Vegan Italian, The Second Edition by Nadia Fragnito…. Visit:  The Vegan Italian Kitchen
The Silver Spoon: Naples and the Amalfi Coast by Phaidon
Italian Film Festival in Australia…. St Ali Italian Film Festival
La Torta (2019) by Gabrielle Gregoire and Olivia Lawson
Visit:  Gabrielle Gregoire
Instagram:   @gabrielle_gregoireVisit:  Film Residency in Calabria
The Story of Art Without Men by Katy Hessel…

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Have you ever wondered why you feel attracted to a certain place? Let’s talk Locational Astrology with Lynnette from Cosmic Moves07 Oct 202200:55:31

The aim of life is to live, and to live means to be aware, joyously, drunkenly, serenely, divinely aware“ - Henry Miller

Welcome to Episode #63

This podcast share is a great window into my world…

Have you ever wondered why a place is calling you, why you cannot stop thinking about it or more so, why you want to visit, or stay forever?  Well this share might shed some light on how a particular location is aligned for you.  

Recently I shared some time with Astrologer and Podcaster Lynnette Wennerstrom who gave me a great insight into my cosmic map for astrology.  Basically it turns out that Italy was destiny and that is that.  But certainly I was curious about the placements of my astrology and how they look on the world map and potentially how they could effect my life.   

Locational astrology is the kind of thing you can look into when you go beyond a natal chart.  It mirrors the same alignments but on the world stage you could say.  

Enjoy this Episode and if you are new to astrology you can get a sense of what is possible.
My AstroMap to check out!   https://www.michellejohnston.life/episodes/episode-63-1

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Visit: Lynette.... Cosmic Moves: Holistic Astrology

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Seventeen Cypress and a Life to Create18 Sep 202200:30:00

"Nature accompanies me, exalts me" - Henri Matisse

A Serenade to a Sunday....  Reflections on a house and a garden.

"I buy another five cypress.  I work hard, water, pray, read them poetry.  I listen to books as I dig... A Field Guide to Getting Lost, Rebecca Solnet….A Paris year, John Baxter….and I dream of a day where they will drill their taproot down into the earth, deep, hardy specimens, that I never even water.  

I go back to Italy and I look at the cypress, in gardens, next to villas, lined up on roads.  They seem to hold the measure of us, grand companions on the journey of life.  Guardians and mysterious knowing trees, always I feel better when I see them in the distance.  When I realised I could have a taste of Italy here in my back yard, well why not?  There was no turning back"

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Artist's Notebooks: For the Poets and the Dreamers.....10 Sep 202200:30:55

"I think that a writer should observe the real world before imagining a non-existent one" -
Jhumpa Lahiri, In Other Words

In a day and age where the universe is at our finger tips and we can meander the world with a smart phone in our pocket.  A device that has the ability to solve most of our problems, pay the bills, track your kids, read you a book, take you from A to B, or wander the streets with an incantation of Max Richter in your ears as you lose yourself in the city of Bologna , is it wise to bring a notebook to jot down ideas and thoughts when one could just as easily leave a voice message or make dot points on the Notes app on that back pocket ?  Yes, yes, I think it is wise.

Here are a few excerpts from some of my travel diaries, from Italy, France, London..... The final instalment of journals, diaries and notebooks.
 
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A Musing on Lemons, Life and Limoncello......The Recipe for Limoncello Included....03 Sep 202200:20:33

“Do you know the land where the lemon trees grow, in darkened leaves the gold-oranges glow,  a soft wind blows from the pure blue sky, the myrtle stands mute, and the bay-tree high?  Do you know it well?”   -   JW Goethe,  Author of Italian Journey

Welcome to Episode #60:

When I think about Limoncello immediately I find myself in Italy.  In particular on the Amalfi coast wandering the side streets, following the fragrance of the beautiful sumptuous lemons that seem to be in baskets out the front of every door or shop front.  

From memory there are two types of Limoncello, a sweet liquor in a small, thin bottle that is super sweet, or the turbo charged punch in the mouth digestivo that has you reciting poetry to a fellow tourist.  This recipe is like the later, but certainly can be diluted or sipped gently, but here you go.

So here is a musing on lemons, life and Limoncello, Enjoy....

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The Writing Life….Travel Diaries from Liguria, Milan, Siena, London, South of France..….25 Aug 202200:30:42

"Now I know why I keep a diary. I am not at peace until I continue the thread into the present. I am interested in analyzing myself, in trying to discover the reasons why I do such & such. I cannot do this without dropping dried peas behind me to help me retrace my course, to point a straight line in the darkness".   Patricia Highsmith, Her Diaries and Notebooks

So many writers have taken to the page to transcribe their daily thoughts, to reflect and preserve, to vent, to articulate, to understand, to create.  Diaries and journals can be a way to write your life into being, and a place of comfort and joy.  Always the diary is a humble companion on a journey, whether you are traveling out there in the world or not. 

Here are few of my own humble moments from my travel diaries in Camogli, Genova, Milan, Siena, London and France…

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Travel Diaries, Artist Journals, Aide Memoir, and Excerpts from Paris, Italy and More….20 Aug 202200:32:21

"The only joy in the world is to begin"  - Cesare Pevase

What do these people have in common?  Jean Cocteau, Cesare Pevase, Virginia Woolf, Thomas Mann, Kurt Cobain, Frida Kahlo, Anne Morrow Lindbergh, Anais Nin and John Ruskin….   They were all Diarists and writers of a certain moment in time.  And they found solace on the page, and for some of them their diaries were published for public consumption too.
Today I am sharing a few pages from my own travel diaries from moments in Italy, Paris and Nepal....  They were great adventures and a fun way to share some moments on the travel journey...

Enjoy...
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Writing our lives - A Poetic Ramble and Musings21 Apr 202400:38:38

"One's destination is never a place but a new way of looking at things" - Henry Miller

Welcome to Episode #93:

Today a share a meander through the creative landscape of writing and my process and the discoveries on the creative journey....

Shownotes include a list of books and memoirs that have inspired me along the creative journey plus extra details from the end of the share if you would like to know more!!

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Table for One - On Solo Travel, Artist's Dates and Grand Adventures05 Aug 202200:53:38

"We often need to be alone to reconnect to life and to ourselves, which then allows us to connect more meaningfully to others" - Sarah Wilson, This One Wild and Precious Life

Welcome to Episode 57:

Solo travel is make or break in my opinion and not for the faint of heart.  However, traveling alone can be a lot of fun too.  I love sharing the journey of travel with family and friends, yet I know there can be plenty of wild and beautiful moments when you take the reigns and travel solo.  

After a couple of adventures up may sleeve where I leave the kids and the husband at home, here is my take on what is good and bad, and deliriously wonderful….I love the quote from the book Alone Time:  Four cities, Four Seasons and the Pleasures of solitude….
“Alone time is an invitation, a chance to do the things you’ve longed to do”.  Exactly, and there is nothing wrong with that!

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The Art of Eating 28 Jul 202200:31:21

“It’s not just the great works of mankind that make a culture.  It is the daily things, like what people eat and how they serve it” - Laurie Colwin, Home Cooking

Welcome……
There is something about food that weaves its way in and out of life, that we cannot deny.   When I wrote this some time back I was in the middle of the day to day yet, musing over women and food, and how everything was pulsing around me, the orchard, the sunshine, the books on the shelf, the mentors I would seek to understand through the many resources on my bookshelf….. Julia Child, Elizabeth David, Nigella Lawson, Diana Henry and many more.

These writers and culinary mentors were singing to me, and somehow I was in the middle of it all, somewhere between the daily and the sublime, reaching for a pear, scrawling down words, moments, memories, menus, and recipes.  This is the art of eating and everything I love about life.

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Stay Tuned for the next Podcast:  A Table for One - on Solo Travel.....

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Culinary Adventures in Southern Italy with Nadia Fragnito30 Jun 202200:50:27

“Recipes are like stories. Once told then re-told, they become familiar and part of our families heritage. Families would share food and recipes with one another and through this organic process a cuisine was born.  Spread a little wider, and this tale becomes regional. There is handmade pasta created without eggs, sources that are meat free and celebrate seasonal vegetables. So now, in each region of southern Italy, there is a wealth of accidentally vegan dishes for you to enjoy” - Nadia Fragnito

Welcome to Episode #55

If you are in the mood to be transported to the dreamy world of Southern Italy look no further than Nadia’s, ‘A Vegan Summer in Southern Italy: Recipes and Culinary Adventures’. 

I love this book for not only its visual beauty but its recipes based on plant based cooking, and the traditions of Southern Italy.  Food is more than the sum of its parts, it is culture, tradition, place, flavour and that connection between family and home.
Enjoy.....

Visit Nadia:  The Vegan Italian Kitchen

Book Share: A Vegan Summer in Southern Italy: Recipes and Culinary Adventures by Nadia Fragnito

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Moments in Italy, Part 3 - Beautiful Things…The Villa Necchi Campiglio, Milano16 Jun 202200:28:35

"You can make the world beautiful just by refusing to lie about it" - Gio Ponti (1891-1979)

Welcome to Episode #54:

The last day of a travel adventure can be a quite distilling, generally it is a tricky day where the emotions run up and down, with that inner knowing that something special is about to end.  Sometimes it can be a relief, sometimes the wheels fall off the cart, and sometimes the pressure to just enjoy it all can be simply too much, yet whatever the case it is a day to enjoy and revel in no less.  

And that is why I organised a ticket to the Villa Necchi Campiglio in the heart of chic Milan.  Not far from the Corso Venezia and the Fashion District on Via Monte Napoleone, this urban and modernist villa is quite the inspiration if you are interested in Italian design and Beautiful Things….

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How the Venetian Spritz became synonymous with the Good Life in Northern Italy and beyond..03 Jun 202200:36:57

"Let us be honest: who hasn't wanted to be just a little bit Italian?' - Kay Plunkett-Hogge, Aperitivo.....

Welcome to Episode #53:

Have you ever wondered how the effervescent Spritz drink customarily enjoyed at Aperitivo time in Italy became a cultural icon?  Once a purely Northern Italian cocktail and now very much a sign of the Good life wherever you are. 

On my recent adventures in Italy I fell hard for the bitter sweet Aperol Spritz number and started to wonder how it came to be, and why mostly the word Spritz was not exactly sounding like the pure sweet notes of Italiano.  So I went on a little journey to discover how the Spritz became the drink of the Veneto region in Italy and beyond.

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Moments in Italy: Caffes & Coffee Bars, Turin, Italy - Travel Share26 May 202200:33:35

“Sometimes I think we only half live over here.  The Italians live all the way” - 
Ernest Hemingway,  (letter to his sister)

Welcome to Episode #52:

Come with me on a journey to Turin, we will board the Italo service at 10.35 at Milano Centrale and arrive an hour later at the Porta Nuova in the beautiful and the elegant Torino in Piemonte.  Travel days are such great experiments, where occasionally the spontaneous finds you, willing and open.

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Moments in Italy, Travel Share - Part 114 May 202200:47:16

“I never travel without my diary.  One should always have something sensational to read on the train.”  -  Oscar Wilde

Welcome to Podcast #51

I thought it would be great to share a little more of the adventure and what happened next in Italy on the journey from Liguria to Milan.  On the last days  there was much to savour and explore.  I love the adventure of it all, and the time to reflect on moments that continue to inspire along the way.

Please find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
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Visit:  Michelle:  Instagram:  @awriterinitalyand @theyellowhouse__

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Postcard from Camogli, Liguria…Sea, Sunshine and Orange Blossoms 10 Apr 202200:22:52

“Place will have its way with you” - Frances Mayes, ‘See You in the Piazza’

Welcome to Episode #50

I am sun kissed and sharing this moment with you from Liguria.  I am in Camogli on the Italian Riviera, a surreal and beautiful experience I have to say.  And so I share this with you as I reach the happy milestone of 50 Episodes! 

So that is kind of fabulous.  I never really imagined I might be in Italy!  After sharing much over the last few years from home (Australia).   Otherwise, this episode is just another beautiful moment on the travel journey....

Enjoy,

Michelle xo

Shownotes are up live with a little photo montage and details of the travel journey.

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Postcard from Liguria, Genova…Ancient Doorways and Bitter Oranges09 Apr 202200:38:04

"Whatever it is I am trying to preserve may not be entirely real, but it isn't altogether false" - Andre Aciman.....'Homo Irrealis, Essays'

Welcome to Podcast 49....And another in the moment share while traveling in Italy...

Reflections on Parma, Genova, La Spezia and more....

Enjoy,

Michelle xo

Shownotes are up live with a little photo montage and details of the travel journey.

Please find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
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Postcard from Parma, Emilia Romagna Italy Travel Share05 Apr 202200:33:50

"These are the days that must happen to you” - Walt Whitman

Welcome to Episode #48

Ciao from Italy,

Salutations and greetings from the beautiful city of Parma in the region of Emilia Romagna, Italy.   I was sitting in front of the Palazzo del Governatore on Strada Garibaldi at an outdoor cafe, O' Bistro in the piazza, when I decided to record this travel share.   In other words, this is a little on the wing, in the moment situation. 

Travel is always full of big and small moments and this is a reflection on recent days.  Traveling from Venice in the beautiful Veneto region to Bologna, and then on to Parma an hour away.  I also share the story of my days in Ravenna where I traveled to see the art treasures of the Byzantine Empire....

Enjoy,

Michelle xo

Shownotes are up live with a little photo montage and details of the travel journey.

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Visit:  Michelle:  Instagram:  @awriterinitalyand @theyellowhouse__

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The Flavours of Liguria with Food Writer Enrica Monzani09 Apr 202400:41:52

"Ligurian cuisine is often defined as a "poor" cuisine, of humble, rough origins because it was born in the homes of fisherman and farmers who had only simple, seasonal and low-value ingredients available. Yet, it is also sophisticated due to the expert use and skilful transformation of those few ingredients"..... Enrica Monzani

Join me for a conversation about the beauty of Ligurian cuisine and the unique terrain that is Liguria, Italy.  Enrica Monzani specialises in the rich and diverse cuisine of Liguria,  leading food tours, market and cooking classes in the city of Genova.  Enrica is a Food Writer and Author of Liguria in Cucina: The Flavours of Liguria, where she shares her passion for preserving the traditional recipes and the stories of her region.

We go on a beautiful journey through the many layers of Liguria, with expert tips on mastering your pesto sauce and what to do and see in Genoa if on the Italian Riviera.  I adore this part of the world and hope you enjoy this conversation with Enrica Monzani.

Visit Enrica at A Small Kitchen in Genoa

Enrica's Beautiful Cookbook - Liguria in Cucina: The Flavours of Liguria, Ricotta della tradizione - traditional dishes….

Follow Enrica on Instagram @asmallkitcheningenoa

The city of Genoa/Genova is not only a majestic port city on the Mediterranean Sea,  but the capital city of Liguria.  If you would like to listen to other Podcasts from the archive I have created on this journey of exploring Italian Culture and this fascinating city - you can find the links and resources here at michellejohnston.life

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Postcard from the Grand Canal, Venice Travel Share01 Apr 202200:16:36

"If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine, it's lethal" - Paul Coelho

Ciao from Italy.

I am on the Grand Canal recording this to share with you.  It is an off the cuff, on the wing travel share.  I will add in some show notes later as I am off for my morning cappuccino and a cornetto.   A Presto

Michelle xo

Shownotes are up live with a little photo montage and details of the travel journey.

Please find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
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Music Composed by Richard Johnston, © 2022

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Allison Zurfluh: Art and Conservation in the Venetian Lagoon 04 Mar 202200:59:34

“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world” - Anne Frank

Welcome to podcast #46 and my conversation with Allison Zurfluh.

Allison is a woman of many layers, a Translator of Classical Music, an Author, Travel Consultant, Painter and at heart an Artist.   Allison has lived all around the world, yet found her true home on the Venetian Lagoon on the island of Burano near Venice in northern Italy. 

In the past few years her life has had its share of trials and tribulations, yet it was the rediscovery of art, and painting the lagoon using watercolours and oil paints on linen canvas that woke her spirit to life again. 

Through her painting and evocative prose Allison's voice translates her love and care for the natural world and the concern she has for the conservation of the Venetian Lagoon for now and for the future.   

Allison's art work will be on exhibit "Let Wild Run Free" in March until August in Venice so be sure to visit if you are in Italy over the coming months. 

Visit Allison for Fine Art:  Allison Zurfluh

Visit Allison:  Bespoke Venice and Lagoon Travel

Instagram:  @allisonzurfluh_artist     &    @allisonzurfluh

Please find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
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Instagram:  @awriterinitaly    &   @theyellowhouse__

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Music Composed by Richard Johnston, © 2022

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The Flavor of Italy with Wendy Holloway18 Feb 202200:35:57

"First we eat, then we do everything else" - MFK Fisher

Welcome to Episode #45 and a lovely chat with Wendy from the Flavor of Italy Podcast. Recently Wendy launched her 100th Episode at Flavor of Italy. 

Wendy is devoted to the world of Italian food, sharing recipes and travel itineraries for the savy traveler who enjoys a culinary adventure in Italy.  Wendy has lived in Lazio for forty years and shares her knowledge and passion about her favourite places and regions on her website Flavor of Italy 

Please find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
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Music Composed by Richard Johnston, © 2022

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Living in Italy 101 with Evelyn Hill11 Feb 202200:38:50

“Italy as destination was lodged in my imagination and in my future”  -  Helen Barolini
Their Other Side: Six American Women and the Lure of Italy 

Welcome to Episode 44 and my wonderful conversation with Evelyn Hill about her journey from Vermont in America to Rome to study at the American University.  

We chat about moving to Italy, studying, creating a new life, living in Rome, Milan and Turin.  Ten years later Evelyn makes the region of Piedmont her home with her partner enjoying trips to the mountains and the relaxed lifestyle.  

We talk the ups and downs of obtaining the Permesso di Siggiorno and how Italy has allowed her to slow down and actually enjoy life the Italian Way.  

These days Evelyn is a consultant for people moving to Italy helping them navigate the red tape on entry and visas.  She has published a book ‘Moving to Italy ‘ and enjoys sharing travel and moving to Italy tips and advice online and over the socials. 

Visit Evelyn Hill:

Italy Travel Planner, Moving to Italy & Expat Consultant

Moving to Italy: A Guidebook.

Instagram:  @collinemontagne

Please find all Show Notes and details mentioned at:
michellejohnston.life

Visit:  Michelle:  Instagram:  @awriterinitaly and @theyellowhouse__

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Music Composed by Richard Johnston, © 2022

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