January 16, 2011 - Un' Amica Stretta

I am completely obsessed with Italy...and I adore almost everything Italian. The decor of my house even has a certain Italian look. I have never been to Italy, but it is definitely on my "bucket list". Several years ago, I found a photography workshop by a well-known photographer that was being held in...you guessed it....Tuscany. I was dying to go, but since it would have been a major interruption in my real life (the life I truly love with all my heart and soul), I had to put it on hold. However, I still have the advertisement on my refrigerator just to remind myself that at some point in the future, Mark can go to Italy and fish and I will go and take pictures of the incredible villas and of him fishing.
This past Christmas, "P" gave me a book that I had heard of called "Eat, Pray, Love." Now, being completely honest I probably wouldn't have bought this book for myself but I loved the fact that she thought about me and thought I would enjoy it so I happily began reading it. ("P" is one of the sweetest, most thoughtful girls on the planet!) As soon as I began to read, I became enthralled. Yes, the story-line was captivating, but I also loved that this woman shares my love of Italy and I find myself living somewhat vicariously through her as she discovers Italy.
One of the things that I am enjoying the most is the Italian phrases sprinkled throughout the book - I find them absolutely stunningly beautiful. The other day, I learned that "un' amica stretta" means "a close friend". "Stretta" means tight - like tight clothing. So, a close friend, in Italian, is one that you can wear tightly, snug against your skin. This just spoke to my soul because isn't that the perfect description of real friends?
So, here's to you, my "un' amica strettas"...I am ever so grateful for your presence in my life.
Ciao!