I am back in Genova and it is so unbelievably good to be here again.
I was drowning in the winter grey of Belgium, missing my great big Genovese walks round the city, missing the exquisite espresso that Simona and Marta make, the focaccia from Panificio Patrone in via Ravecca, and missing the pleasure of finding just the right food, in amongst all that is delicious at Francesca and Norma's shop.
11am, and I have walked around the old city, bought my pale pink flowers, eaten focaccia, had espresso. I have talked with people. This place feels like the closest to home I have ever been while wandering outside of New Zealand these last 9 years.
The sky is a deep deep blue, the air is mild - unlike the freezing cold in Milano as I arrived yesterday. People are out on the streets and, as always, they are talking to each other and greeting strangers. Did I tell you how much I love this city?
I felt so very strong, walking the hills in a way that delights me, as it's my first time on hills since I was here last, back in November.
I'm here to put together a range of accommodation options for the photography workshop in April. I have my favourite hotel but I need to cover all budgets. I think it will be easy but I want to be sure of what I am recommending. And I need just a few more specific photographs for the book.
No photos today though ... my hands were full of focaccia and flowers. And my soul was singing too loudly to concentrate on pulling my camera out of my bag to use it.
And yes, I am a wee bit much this morning but oh, it is good to here.