My Beautiful Fortress in Italy.
Thanks for stopping by. This space is devoted to my life in the Italian countryside. In the furthest northern part of Tuscany. A region known as Lunigiana. I am a photo/prop stylist and author.
What is happening this week: Big Decisions in 2025
I’m back, and … Happy New Year. I was glad to see 2024 end. Ba Bye!!! A year that for me was never expected with highs and soul-crushing lows. Frank dying was like life hit me in the face with a baseball bat. I’ll tell you life will grab and shake you, and no one is exempt. As I navigate my new reality, I am thankful for loads of family time, wonderful supportive friends, and a great therapist. I think I have got this. One thing that has brought me some happiness is that I bought a new home. I believe that living in a new neighborhood, with cute shops and beautiful parks within walking distance, will be the tonic I need. Of course, I am doing a minor renovation. I can’t help but love a project. I’ll keep you posted as I rise to this new challenge.
Another big decision I have made is to hold off on releasing my dessert cookbook. The Sweet Life at La Fortezza. It will be available for pre-order in August, just in time for holiday gift-giving, and released in late October 2025. The truth is that I need to have the mental fortitude to promote the book. I think I will be more myself in the Fall after a summer in Italy.
Italy, a lot of you have been asking. I will be there at the end of May. I have a Secret Flea Market Retreat scheduled for June 1-6th. That is still on, and I am looking forward to it. I have a couple of spots left. If you’re interested email Gen for more information.
New project alert: My friend Kim bought a beautiful renovation project in a stunning ancient Roman village about ten minutes from La Fortezza. She and her husband will stay at La Fortezza for three months, and I will help them renovate this gorgeous project. I can’t wait. She and I have been good friends for over fifteen years. She’s like a sister and is very talented.
As it turns out, the new puppy, Lucy, was a great decision. She is a delight and a sweetheart. Vivi has finally taken a shine to her as well. I knew she would. Two dachshunds are better than one!
Book Your La Fortezza Retreat 2025 NOW.
We are almost sold out for the Secret Flea Market Retreat in June. This does not mean you can’t book your custom retreat or a corporate retreat to celebrate clients or staff. Contact Gen she will give you all the details and our menu of activities to customize your visit. See you in Italy in 2025
La Fortezza Kitchen on YouTube: Apple Fritters
A delicious sweet treat from my kitchen in Italy. Watch as Chef Leo and I make our way though this recipe as always there are funny bits. Delicous!
MY LATEST REAL-ESTATE YouTube VIDEO:
All About Annette YouTube: In this week's episode, The most hysterical you’ll see me on a video. The toilet at the top of the stairs was the cherry on top. There’s so much more as Federico takes me through a ridiculous listing.
Check it out, and please like and subscribe to keep this crazy adventure going.
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Travel Tip: The Old Edwards Inn, Highland, North Carolina
Self-care has been essential to my new journey, so I made a reservation for myself and my best friend in mid-January at The Old Edwards Inn in Highlands, North Carolina.
I chose the Old Edwards Inn and Spa when I wanted to treat myself to some much-needed zen time in nature. The Inn and Spa has won many awards, including Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards #16 Top Hotel in the U.S., Travel and Leisure World’s Best Awards #1 Hotel in North Carolina, and TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards #5 Hotel in the U.S.
I am bringing my best friend of 40 years with me. She, too, a widow, has been more support than anyone could ask for. She’s helped me navigate these rough waters. We’ve made appointments for treatments, facials, and massages and plan to wander all over Highlands, where there are many beautiful shops. I will write about it in my next newsletter, but I wanted to share a place that my daughter and son-in-law adore.
They go every year for New Year’s Eve. She suggested that I have a fun girls’ weekend with my friend.
Recipe of the week: Banana Turmeric Smoothie
After so many holiday meals, cocktails, and snacks, I find starting the day with a smoothie in January gets me off to a good start. For years, I did Juice January. Have a look at my blog.
Serves 1
You will need:
- 1 banana
- 1 cup frozen mango
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups of Almond milk
- 1 inch piece of fresh Turmeric or 1/2 teaspoon dried Turmeric
In your blender, or Nutribullet, combine all ingredients and serve.
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Axx