[easyrotator]erc_66_1350178603[/easyrotator]

Lifestyle post:

The small stuff is often the big stuff. Villa in Italy? Absolutely gorgeous; six bedrooms, two kitchens, three fireplaces, infinity pool. After surveying the accouchements though felt we were missing something. Difficult to learn all that you can about an area and its wine while drinking from small ancient two ounce glasses. Three fireplaces, yes, but nothing can replicate the glow from candlelight on the dining room table. Linen or cloth napkins? Completely necessary.

First shopping outing was a dozen linen napkins in charming Monticchiello. Without a doubt, an even dozen. No credit card here so handed over euros. Happy to do so. Napkins came home in the checked luggage and will always remind us of communal festive dinners.

On the way to train station in Chiusi to pick up late arriving couple stopped in at small local wine store to check out appropriate glassware. Riedel? I’ll take eight, no, on second thought make that twelve, we might lose one or two. Everything we drank was infinitely better in those glasses. Shopkeeper had breathtaking local handmade candles as well. Picked up two. Add a few bottles of wine and we pretty much made her day.

Warm and charming housekeeper took care of us well. At the end of the stay couldn’t seem to part with our memorable goods and housekeeper was happy to help with shipping details. Handed her all necessary details without question. Double kissed her goodbye and now, ten days later, glasses and candles have arrived. Thank you. Shared fine meals continue.

What you do to enhance each day is totally worth thinking about the details. Two oldest daughters sharing an apartment in Boston MA now cook for one another, light the candles, enjoy a glass of wine together, and use real napkins. Couldn’t be happier.

When traveling, especially by auto, take the good glasses. It does make a difference.

This is small stuff, but really, big stuff. Every day dress.