JOAN'S VIEW - Umbria Holiday Rentals at THIS OLD CONVENT

Umbria Holiday Rentals - It's HOT, HOT, HOT in Umbria

2011-08-18T15:18:00.000-04:00

Salve tutti,

It's in the mid-90's F in Perugia and no relief in sight!

Weather Report: 10 Day Forcast for Perugia Umbria

But the pool is real cool!

We have a few apartments left in August.

Join us?

Ciao for Now.
Joan

Umbria Holiday Rentals at ‘THIS OLD CONVENT’ - Takes a New Twitter Title

2011-04-29T03:10:00.000-04:00

Salve Tutti,
Today Kate may be given a new title and that is great, but...

I would like to share that Umbria Holidays at 'THIS OLD CONVENT' has in deed received and new title today!

You will now be able to follow our 'Tweets' under the name 'Umbria_Holiday'.

Thanks you listening and talk again soon.

Ciao for Now,
Joan
PS. I am enjoying myself. How about you?
EXTRA; EXTRA Title announced - Duchess of Cambridge.
Dress designer is still a secret!!!
Australians bet the color will be ivory.

Umbertide Market Every Wednesday - Art, History and Local Color

2011-04-23T13:50:00.029-04:00

Salve Tutti,
Wednesday is market day in Umbertide and this is the Wednesday before Easter, so there are lots of busy people in town.

A view of Umberitide from across the Tiber River.

Looking back at Mt. Acuto through the provincial rail road bridge.

The rail road of the province of Umbria consists of two (2) cars when it passes through Umbertide. The safety bar goes down quite a long time before the train passes.

Umbertide Waiting for the Train to Pass ( Some people don't have time to wait!)
(Click to view video clip on http://www.youtube.com/, then press back arrow at top left to come back).

Church of S. Croce now Museum of Santa Croce – (Umbertide)

Niccolò Circignani (c. 1517/1524 - after 1596) was an Italian painter of the late-Renaissance or Mannerist period. Born in Pomarance, he is one of three Italian painters called Pomarancio. His first works are documented from the 1560s, where he painted frescos on the Old Testament stories for the Vatican Belvedere, where he may have worked alongside Santi di Tito and Giovanni de' Vecchi. He also completed altarpieces for Orvieto (1570), Umbertide (1572), Città di Castello (1573-1577) as well as Città della Pieve.
The church was built in 1610, to a design by a local architect, Fracassini, which involved enlarging a chapel belonging to the Augustinian fathers which had been in existence from 1338.

Now deconsecrated and converted into the Museum of Santa Croce it contains the restored Deposition from the Cross by Luca Signorelli and other important paintings including a canvas by Pomarancio, together with several bronze objects of a votive nature discovered near the Sanctuary on the high ground of Monte Acuto, dating back to the 6th and 5th century B.C. and kept upstairs. The high altar has an interesting wooden mostra by Pietro Lazzari.

Food Stalls and 13th c. La Rocca (Tower and Fort)

La Rocca is the site of many mordern art shows.

Bouquets of Flowers prepared for Pasqua.

Traditional Flower Patterns by Busatti Fabrics.

Great Meat!!

Daiseys and Fashion Hand Bags

Hotel Capponi (No relation to Al - I think! ) in the Piazza 25 Aprile.

I stayed at the Hotel Capponi when I came to buy Il Convento Mincione.

Piazza 25 Aprile Memorial Plaque - 74 Citizens Died in this Allied Action

Extra-Large Beaver Lodge in the Tevere.

In 2004 or so, Umbria was experiencing a draught. The Tevere (Tiber River) was so low that an unexploded Allied bomb that had been hidden under the water for about 50 years (See commemorating plaque above.), became visible just about where the beavers have built their lodge (See photo above.) and was spotted by a passerby. A bomb squad defused the bomb and after a few hours everything was back to normal.

What makes Umbertide so special? Art, history and local color (and Il Convento Mincione , of course!) - Welcome to Umbertide!!!.

Ciao for now,

Joan

PS. Happy Easter - Enjoy Yourself!

Reference:
Il Pomarancio:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niccol%C3%B2_Circignani

Umbria Weddings at 'THIS OLD CONVENT' - Celebrate Your Royal Wedding in Italy!

2011-04-15T11:32:00.001-04:00

Salve Tutti,
Are you excited about the 'Royal Wedding' coming up in the UK in just 6 days? I certainly am.

We too create weddings fit for princes and princesses in Umbria, Italy at 'THIS OLD CONVENT?

Need some convincing? Watch this slideshow by TRIPADVISOR.

Ciao for Now,
Joan
PS. Bring your own Ipod playlist or enjoy ours!!

Umbria Holiday Rentals at ‘THIS OLD CONVENT’ - 1st Page Ranking on Google UK, Australia, Belgium and Netherlands, etc.

2011-04-14T16:23:00.000-04:00

Salve Tutti,
Umbria Holiday Rentals at 'THIS OLD CONVENT' achieves 1st Page ranking on Google UK, Google Australia, Google Belgium, and Google Netherlands, and many more, thanks to SOCIALMEDIAMAGIC.com social media webinar.
Lots of fun with a popularity payoff.

2011 Guests booking from all countries listed above and more.

Umbria Holiday Rentals at 'THIS OLD CONVENT' - Choose your luxury accommodation now.

Yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ciao for Now,

Joan

Happy 38th Wedding Anniversary, Dear!

2011-04-08T03:22:00.000-04:00

Salve Tutti,

Today is Itzhak and my 38th Wedding Anniversary. Actually, you could say we have been married a little shorter time, since for the past eight years we have only wintered together in NYC.

We bought Il Convento Mincione with the idea that hosting holiday-makers would be an ideal retirement business for us. However, since Itzhak is still young (in mind and body) and runs a thriving business, he doesn't want to retire just yet.
Itzhak does spend his summer holidays here, which turns out not to be too much of a rest for him, because there is a lot of work to do around here during the peak season. But like I said, he is still young. Itzhak tells me that he will have to retire someday.

Be that as it may, I am off to buy flowers (or should say plants) for our anniversary.

Piazza dining area with our house - the 'annesso' in the back ground.

Happy anniversary, dear!!!!!
Ciao for now,

Joan

PS. You can friend Itzhak on Facebook at Itzhak Halperin. He’d like to know what you are up to.

Views of Il Convento Mincione - Spring 2011 - Remember to Enjoy Yourself!

2011-04-03T15:33:00.003-04:00

Salve Tutti,

Just a few shots of Il Convento Mincione taken yesterday, along with a rendering of the structure (apartments indicated) for orientation, if you haven't been here yet.

Rendering of Il Convento Mincione

A View of the Piazza from the Steps to Apatrments IL RE and LA REGINA

The Path and Gate to the Pool - Close-up

Lemon Tree Very Pretty and the Lemon Flower Smells Sweet, but...

The Fruit of the Poor Lemon is Impossible to Eat.

There I go - dating myself again. (Please be sure to see references below.)

Southern Garden

Luigi XIV Takes Some Sun

Ciao for Now,

Joan

PS. Any similarity between Luigi XIV of Il Convento Mincione and Louis XIV of the Chateau de Versailles is strictly intended to make you smile.

Enjoy yourself!

References:
Louis XIV:
http://en.chateauversailles.fr/history/court-people/louis-xiv-time/louis-xiv-

"Lemon Tree" is a folk song written by Will Holt in the 1960s. The tune is based on the Brazilian folk song Meu limão, meu limoeiro, arranged by José Carlos Burle in 1937 and made popular by Brazilian singer Wilson Simonal.[1] The song compares love to a lemon tree: "Lemon tree very pretty, and the lemon flower is sweet, but the fruit of the poor lemon is impossible to eat."
http://www.peterpaulandmary.com/music/01-09.htm

Peter, Paul and Mary: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBNI2_NrLaY;

Trini Lopez (may or may not be a relation of Jennifer Lopez):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3FSRW2qFjM

Hi I'm Back

2011-03-31T09:27:00.000-04:00

Salve Tutti,
Hi! I'm back. The place looks gorgeous.
So, much to do before the new 2011 season.
Will take pix and write soon.
Saluti,
Joan

Heading back to Umbria and Il Convento Mincione

2011-03-29T13:43:00.000-04:00

Salve Tutti,

I'm heading back to Umbria and Il Convento Mincione after a fabulous NYC 'stay'cation and feeling very mixed emotions.

I'll be bringing you the latest of what's up in our region as soon as I get settled.

In the meantime, keep your eyes posted for our mini-advert in Brides Magazine UK (print edition), which will appear on your news stands (if you live in the UK) on March 30th.

We also have have a new 'Special Wedding Preview Offer' running until June 17th. Check it out on our web site http://www.thisoldconvent.com/.

And now, here's a special treat for you before I leave my computer. Our neighbors raise Chianina cattle in the fields around Il Convento Mincione. They run what you would call an 'old-fashioned' family business. On my way down to Umbertide one day, I stopped and spoke to the owner of the herd and his wife and son. She apologized for raising animals for slaughter, but assured me that they really love them and treat them well while they are in their possession. Here they are - mothers and children.

A presto!

Ciao for Now,
Joan
Reference:
Chianina Cattle http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chianina

Il Convento Mincione - Apt Dieci - Honeymoon Suite Slideshow & Video

2011-03-14T06:26:00.000-04:00

Il Convento Mincione - Apt Dieci - Honeymoon Suite Slideshow & Video: "TripAdvisor™ TripWow ★ Il Convento Mincione - Apt Dieci - Honeymoon Suite Slideshow ★ to Umbertide, Umbria. Stunning free travel slideshows on TripAdvisor"

Carnevale in Italy - There is Still Time! and 'Enjoy Yourself" It's Later Than You Think!

2011-03-01T15:10:00.011-05:00

The Italian Notebook - "The brief, FREE, daily taste of Italy read by thousands of Italy lovers world-wide!” features an article on Carnevale in a small town in the province of Puglia today. The Italian Notebook gives you insights into lesser known facts, events and opinions which are brought to you in English by contributors who really know the country. And, what’s more important, they know what you want to know as visitor, since they were practically all born out of the country themselves. These glimpses of Italy are shared along with photography that is divine. My personal friend, Anne Robichaud (Go Packers! - Remember Anne was born in Wisconsin -"Annesitaly.com"), contributes often and introduced me to this gem. I can’t recommend it highly enough! (Link Below)

Carnevale celebrations are held all over Italy from Venice and Milan down to the small villages and towns of Puglia, Calabria and Sicily with many of the biggest celebrations on Martedi Grasso or Fat Tuesday, which is March 8th this year (and that is why if you are really quick there is still time this year.) Carnevale is the last celebration before lent which begins on Ash Wednesday, March 9th and will continue for 46 days until Saturday, the 23rd of April. Lent has historically been the time before Easter, April 24th this year, when many Catholics deprive themselves of something they enjoy.

Did you know that Carnevale was first celebrated in Venice in 1094 and has been officially sanctioned in that city since 1296? In Rome, Carnevale gained popularity in the 17th century. And, until the 1880's Carnevale was celebrated with a riderless horserace down the Via del Corso. After numerous accidents it was decided this was too dangerous and the city began celebrating in more traditional ways. (See reference below.)

(Too bad authorities don't do anything about the notoriously audacious (and dangerous) modern Italian drivers; most of whom, it seems, are still trying to get nose-to-nose (or other body parts) in a horserace. If you have ever visited, you will confirm my notion that, in Italy, tail-gating seems to be a sport or a God-given right. Now, I know this practice of tail-gating is not officially sanctioned, because Roney and I (a licensed US driver for 40 years and with only one accident to my record - which was absolutely not my fault – I got hit in the back by a school bus – I was driving a Chevy Suburban at the time) both attended driving school in Umbertide and had to pass both written and practical exams in order to be able to own and drive a car. To pass the written exam one has to study a whopping 9,000 variations of questions on everything from traffic and road signs on down to how to when and where to abandon your car on the road, if a light on your computerized dashboard flashes red. Sometimes the lights flash red, but it is nothing more than a computer malfunction, but I really can’t blame that on Italian bureaucracy. One of my American friends, who also passed the exam, said, "It is harder (the Italian driver's licensing process) than getting a college degree." And, by the way, it was costly, too. Euro 600.00 per student.)

(By the way, if you are wondering where all the beautiful photos that I usually try to weave into my blog posts are, please be patient. I've got something special for your today. And, please go the Italian Notebook for lovely photos, when you are finished here. I do not get any monetary compensation for the publicity that I am doing for them. In fact, there are people on that website that publicize other venues in Italy.)
Carnevale in Italy was traditionally a period when roles were reversed - men and women (I know that few wait for Carnevale today.), nobility and commoners. Today the period of Carnevale is a time when people put their daily lives on hold to laugh at themselves, their leaders and their world. Sounds like a good idea, n’est-ce pas? Carnevale in Viareggio, on the Ligurean Sea, is well-known for its parades. They have elaborately decorated floats and people wearing paper mache masks that lampoon politicians and famous people. (I bet the Berlusconi Float is a doozy!)

Easter, is very late this year. I keep saying "this year" when I mention the dates - and you know why, but do you know why it is 'very' late this year?

Well, this year is a leap year in the Hebrew lunisolar calendar ('lunisolar' that’s a new one for me, too!) and the Hebrew calendar adds a whole month, not just a day, when they have a leap year.
Passover is April 18th - 26th also quite late this year. (See Reference below).

Whichever holiday you enjoy, just be sure to enjoy it - preferably with family and loved ones. In general, “Enjoy yourself, it’s later than you think.”

"Enjoy Yourself" was a popular song published in 1949, with music written by Carl Sigman and lyrics by Herb Magidson.(See Reference below.) I think you may have gathered, from my song references, that I am part of the baby boom generation...actually a very early baby-boomer - and some places I have read that the baby boom officially started in 1946 - the war was just over when I was born in NYC in June of 1945. How come I was born in NYC in 1945? Most men were still serving in Europe or Asia in 1944. Have patience. I'll get to it.

Joanie and Daddy - Sheepshead Bay Roof-top - 1948

Joanie and Daddy - 1948

Most woman would never tell you their age. They hem and haw and skirt around the issue. I, on the other hand, like my father (whom I resemble in both looks and character), flaunt my age. I enjoy my vantage point.

Speaking of my parents, have I shared with you, my friends and readers, that I am piecing together the story of my parent’s escape from Europe during World War II? Yes, I am in the process of transcribing the audio cassette tapes of the memories that my mother and my aunt, Sophie, had shared with me on many occasions (and that I had the foresight to record in 1997) right now. It seems like a long time to wait to actually get started with the writing now in 2011, but with the extraordinary amount of information that has become available thanks to the internet, I am now able to integrate all the names of the people and places they mention with facts drawn from many sources. This process has opened my eyes to the remarkable courage and physical strength they had. My mother always thought of herself as a weak person. NOT SO! I will share more in the future.

Well, thanks for listening. As always, I would love to hear from you.

Ciao for Now... from NYC ...and hoping to see you soon in Umbria,

Joan
Enjoy Yourself!

References:
The Italian Notebook: http://www.italiannotebook.com/events/giants-putignano/
Lent: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lent
Hebrew Calendar: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hebrew_calendar
“Enjoy Yourself”: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enjoy_Yourself_(It's_Later_than_You_Think)
Baby Boom Generation: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baby_Boom_Generation

Tonight at the Oscars

2011-02-28T00:26:00.000-05:00

Salve tutti,
The night we have been waiting for since at least the beginning of the new year, the Oscars, finally arrived tonight. The wait was almost as long as the show that was not very exciting, since there were no surprises. James Franco and Anne Hathaway, the hosts for the evening, were cute together. Ann got some very good advice from Shirley MacLaine a two time Oscar winner, "Change your dress often." And, that she did and, boy, were they F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

One of the best moments of the night came when Jeff Bridges presented the Academy Award for the Best Actress. He won the Best Actor award last year. Jeff's introduction of each actress and her work was so warm and personal that it felt as if he was wooing each one directly from the stage. You could see the way each actress practically melted under his verbal embrace. Very classy!

Natalie Portman won the award. You remember I was very impressed with Annette Bening, but Natalie was superb in 'Black Swan' and nobody was surprised by the choice. Natalie thanked her parents for showing her the right way to live by example and I liked that very much.

Here are some DOs and DON'Ts for Oscar presenters.

Ciao for now,
Joan

Umbria Holiday Rentals at ‘THIS OLD CONVENT’ - BETTING ON SURVIVAL - SUPPORTS "LADY LUCK'

2011-02-16T18:32:00.058-05:00

Tickets going fast for In Living Pink 2011!!! "Lady Luck: Vegas Casino Game Night" that will feature exciting casino gaming, complete with roulette wheels, blackjack, poker, craps tables, luxury prizes, great music and delicious food. It will be an evening not to be missed! Thursday, May 19, 2011 • 7:00 p.m. at Crimson 915 Broadway at 21st Street, NYC.Top casino prizes include a one-week stay in apartment 'DIECI' at the beautiful Il Convento Mincione in Umbria, Italy!
Wow! DIECI - Honeymoon Suite at Umbria Holiday Rentals at 'THIS OLD CONVENT' (Don't miss this TripAdvisor video clip!)

'DIECI' - Outdoor Dining on Sunset Terrace at Il Convento Mincione - Umbria

Young Survival Coalition is the premier global organization dedicated to the critical issues unique to young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. YSC offers resources and connections so women feel supported, empowered and hopeful. Through action, advocacy and awareness, YSC seeks to educate and influence the medical, research, breast cancer and legislative communities to address breast cancer in young women, and to ensure that no young woman is left to face breast cancer alone.

In addition to offering the top-prize at "Lady Luck"*, Il Convento Mincione has become a Community Partner with YSC. This means that you can enjoy a holiday in Umbria at 'This Old Convent' and benefit Young Survivor Coalition at the same time - our association is a lasting means of combining giving with getting. Go to YSC's Breast Cancer and; Community Partners Page and see how it is done!

'DIECI' - Deluxe Swimming Pool and California Hot Tub at Il Convento Mincione - Umbria

By the way, the top-prize winner may claim the FREE week at any time during the 2011 season which ends on 18th of November. If you don't think you can make it to Italy this season, go to the In Living Pink Gala anyway and win for your mother or mother-in-law.

A presto at Il Convento Mincione!
Joan
*Just one small note. This "Lady Luck" is not to be confused with "A Little Bit O' Luck" the NY Lottery guy.

Umbria is for Lovers and One San Valentino was Born There!

2011-02-14T21:20:00.000-05:00

Salve Tutti,

I hope all you lovers out there have had a wonderful day expressing your love for one another. But, have you performed any miracles for your beloved today? Why do I ask?, you say.

Well, did you know that San Valentino was a native of Umbria?
And, did you know that legend has it...
The Early Medieval acta of either Saint Valentine (there was more that one and two most famous ones that) were expounded briefly in Legenda Aurea.[16] According to that version, St Valentine was persecuted as a Christian and interrogated by Roman Emperor Claudius II in person. Claudius was impressed by Valentine and had a discussion with him, attempting to get him to convert to Roman paganism in order to save his life. Valentine refused and tried to convert Claudius to Christianity instead. Because of this, he was executed. Before his execution, he is reported to have performed a miracle by healing the blind daughter of his jailer.

Since Legenda Aurea still provided no connections whatsoever with sentimental love, appropriate lore has been embroidered in modern times to portray Valentine as a priest who refused an unattested law attributed to Roman Emperor Claudius II, allegedly ordering that young men remain single. The Emperor supposedly did this to grow his army, believing that married men did not make for good soldiers. The priest Valentine, however, secretly performed marriage ceremonies for young men. When Claudius found out about this, he had Valentine arrested and thrown in jail.

There is an additional modern embellishment to The Golden Legend, provided by American Greetings to History.com, and widely repeated despite having no historical basis whatsoever. On the evening before Valentine was to be executed, he would have written the first "valentine" card himself, addressed to a young girl variously identified as his beloved,[17] as the jailer's daughter whom he had befriended and healed,[18] or both. It was a note that read "From your Valentine."[17]( For full article see reference below.)

In addition, did you know that Il Convento Mincione is a very romantic place to spend Valentine's Day and a fecund place as well!

Oh, I love that word 'fecund' (Don't you?), especially the way the Julianne Moore and Mark Ruffalo savor it in the film "The Kids are Alright." This is a great movie and I think Annette Bening will win the Oscar for Best Actress for her performance. They use actress (f.) for award shows; actor (m.) when they want to be politically correct.

I think Natalie Portman, who won the Golden Globe in that category, gave a great performance in "Black Swan" and she worked really hard to get herself into shape for the role. I should be rooting for her blindly, since she and Roney went to the same dance school, Eglevsky School of Ballet on Long Island and danced together in the Nutcracker for many years. But, there is something to say for age and experience and Annette has both.

Talking about age and experience, do you remember or did you know that The Who had a hit called, "The Kids are Alright"? Listen to the lyrics and see if they relate to the movie. Listen to the melody and tell me if you don't think they were stealing from the Beatles!!!

See you at the Oscars?

Ciao for Now,

Joan

References:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentine's_Day

Anne Robichaud - Trip Advisor's # 1 Attraction in Assisi

2011-02-12T00:21:00.000-05:00

Salve tutti,

My friend, Anne Robichaud, a native of Wisconsin (Go, Packers!), has lead a fascinating life in Italy. Over the past 30+ years, Anne has transitioned from tilling the soil and raising animals to creating and directing a very successful English language school in her home town of Assisi to becoming certified as an official Umbrian tour guide.

Anne is a 'treasure-trove' of information on many subjects, who gives visitors to Umbria a totally authentic experience.

Anne Robichaud in Red with Guests from USA and Silvana, Anne's best friend

The day these pictures were taken was the last day for visitors to see how the restoration of a small alcove in the Basilica of St. Francis was progressing. Imagine standing nose to nose with Saints in Giotto's most famous works!

Refreshing the Work of Giotto in the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi

These visits were scheduled for ten minute intervals. And, so after our celestial time, we went to explore another side of Assisi which is more down to earth. That side is seen in the people's art in a museum dedicated to Artisans and Tradesman.

We were invited to step inside...

Museum of Trades and Crafts

Hand-Made Baby Carriage

Painted Rocking Horse

Rolling Metal Horse with Tools Displayed on Wall

Parcelain Doll Seated in Toy Car Giving Praise

Equality in Restriction

The very amiable director the museum invited Silvana and I into his antique shop across the street. People are really friendly here.

Silvana and the Museum Director/Antique Dealer

Don't take my word for it. See for yourself!

Go to Anne's website www.annesitaly.com , if you want to know when to come and what to do in Umbria.

Ciao for Now,
Joan

Five Day Weather Forcast for Perugia, Umbria, IT - Sounds Great!

2011-02-03T15:08:00.000-05:00

When you are freezing in NYC 50 Degrees Farenheit sounds really good.

Need to convert that to Celsius?

What's the temperature where you are?

Bah...Bah...White Sheep - Organic Lawn Mowers and “The Scientification of Love”

2011-01-26T15:19:00.245-05:00

Salve tutti,
This is a remake of a blog entry that I wrote in April of 2010. It is relevant now as a prelude to my next blog entry entitled, "Jaky's Farm". So, I have taken the liberty.

Organic Lawn Mowers

Our three sheep, Queen Latifa, Lady Gaga and Babs (introduced in blog dated Jan 26th 2011) that Jaky brought home one day, were welcomed guests at Il Convento Mincione, since (as the idea was first presented to me) they would function as organic lawn mowers for the lower levels of the property - thus, saving lots of money.

Jaky promised me that they were not meant to be eaten and I believed him…until the day that he brought home a fourth sheep that we named Pasquale. By his name, you can see why I immediately became suspicious. I am not a vegetarian, but when you see these sweet little babies (as with all little babies) they penetrate your heart instantaneously...

The notion of falling in love with babies has been the subject of scientific study for the past ten years.

In his beautiful book, “The Scientification of Love”, French obstetrician Michel Odent explains how Oxytocin, a hormone released by the pituitary gland stimulates the release of chemical messengers in the heart. Oxytocin, which is essential during birth, stimulating contractions, and during lactation stimulating the ‘milk ejection reflex’, is also involved in other ‘loving behaviors’. “It is noticeable that whatever the facet of love we consider, oxytocin is involved.’says Odent..(See referenced article “Science of Mother’s Love” below).

Some of you may be thinking - What about the growing number of stay-at-home Dads who are the primary caretakers of their children? Do men produce Oxytocin, too? Check Google for numerous articles on the subject. As always, your comments are welcome.

Back to Mincione and our four sheep...
The quartet grew rapidly in size. Their curly white mantles became dingy. And, they began to smell - no stink!
Our four sheep did such a good job of 'mowing' the lawn on the lower levels of the property that they started venturing up onto our piazza, (non ostante, the fence constructed to keep them out) in search of greener pastures and began to feast on the flowers as well - not to mention the droppings!

This happened once, twice... ten times. And, finally Oxytocin (Shcmoxytoxin - that's a New Yorkism), it was bye-bye girls and boy. We would have to think of another solution for the grass.

The Sheep Get the Boot (just one of many times)!

The awful sound you hear is the technique for moving sheep taught to me by a professional sheepherder. I usually try to speak in a more modulated tone. (My kids may think differently.)

I am aware that a growing number of people reject any difference between the treatment of animals and people. I am not there yet, but I do understand the concepts behind this mode of thinking. If I were there, I would have to become a vegan. Many people do develop a sense of consciousness that leads them to become vegan; some at an early age - others later.

You never know. By the time you come to visit Il Convento Mincione, I may have made the leap. However, you, our guests, are welcome to do as you please. We have a giant BBQ adjacent to the piazza and there are hibachi BBQ’s available for each apartment.

Giant Wood Burning BBQ - Chicken Kebabs Anyone?

Ciao for now. A presto!
Joan
References:
"Science of Mother’s Love"

Yesterday's Umbria... and the Inception of the Mediterranean Diet

2011-01-26T14:56:00.011-05:00

Salve Tutti,
The weather has been pretty bad here in NYC for the past few days - light slushy snow and now some rain to hopefully wash everything away. I've been thinking about Mt. Acuto and the Etruscan temple at its summit. So, instead of eating too much, I started to do some research (which is so easy on the Internet now-a-days).

I have become fascinated by the question:

Just what’s so important about the Etruscans?

Here is what I have gleaned:
The Etruscans date back to the 11th -10th centuries BC (Notice how the numbers go backwards!).

Mt. Tezio viewed by me and our guests from our pool (Lucky us!).

And, that is way, way back. That's more than 2,000 years before Il Convento Mincione was started.

The Etruscan city of Perugia, which is no more that 24km from Mincione, just to the other side of Mt. Tezio .

We have a comprehensive book of circular walks, which has been custom tailored for the Umbertide area, available in our guest library. Mt. Tezio, which you can climb easily, is featured in the book. To let you know how gentle the climb to Mt. Tezio is, I even climbed half way up with my very good and very patient friend Penny and her beloved dogs. Penny has been living in the area for a long time. She is the spearhead of the enormously successful Umbrian dog rescue program, "Books for Dogs" .

Penny and her faithful dogs mid-way point Mt. Tezio.

You can meet Penny and her partners at the Umbertide Market every Wednesday. (The very popular and colorful Umbertide Market is food for another blog post.)

Back to the Etruscans - Perugia sits high on a hill overlooking the Tiber River, and dates back to the 8th century BC. The Etruscans coveted this hill top position as strategic point for military and commercial reasons, and built walls made of blocks of travertine marble to fortify it. These walls, which still stand proudly today as a testament to the Etruscans engineering prowess, were later incorporated into the medieval defense system of the city and now have become an important tourist attraction, since the only thing that menaces the citizens of Perugia today are drugs and there seems to be little defense against them - they are dapertutto (wherever you go).

Okay, so you know that the Etruscans left defense walls. They also left necropoles (Greek plural: necropoleis; Latin plural: necropoles) dapertutto. The brochure from which I 'lifted' all this information, can be accessed by clicking on the History link found on the under our INFO section on Activities Page look for: More of what Umbria has to offer to visitors. (And, I encourage you to do it, because clicking around our website boosts our rankings on search engines).

One of the necropoli mentioned, Tomba del Faggeto, can be found directly across the valley from Il Convento Mincione (The brochure says it is in San Giovanni del Pantano, which is on the road that leads you to us, but the map indicates the position that is seen in the image below. I know the people who own the property on which the tomba is located.)

View towards Tomba del Faggeto from the terrace of apartment DIECI (Lucky them!)

Gloria Steinem - FYI (directed to some of my younger readers) - one of those women who burned their bras in the 1960's, must have been impressed to know that Etruscan women enjoyed higher social status than their ancient contemporaries. Not only were Etruscan women included in festivals and taught to write, those of the aristocratic class were often buried with objects that conveyed the same symbols of power as those of the men, including scepters, thrones, belts, nuptial carriages, horse adornments and shields, as well as precious jewelry, hairpieces and clothing accessories. So, what's new? They sound just like me and some of my friends, before I simplified my life at Il Convento Mincione. And, according to what I read about them in the article cited below, Etruscan women made our women's liberation movement look like child’s play. I don’t want to quote anything from it because this is a “G” rated blog, but you can go to the website where I found the info using the link below. (And, by the way the comparison with me and Etruscan women stops with the material stuff. And, I never burned a bra, either.)

The title of this entry is "Yesterday's Umbria... and the Inception of the Mediterranean Diet", I had better get to the diet part, before I lose you, my faithful audience. The concept of an Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) emerged in the 1990s, as a counterpart to the World Heritage that focuses mainly on tangible aspects of culture. In November of 2010, UNESCO added 'The Mediterranean Diet' to their list of ICHes.

On pages 23-24 of the History article they talk about Etruscan Cooking, which includes all of todays Umbrian favorites; Torta al testo, Strangozzi (thick pasta of flour and water rolled with a special technique),
Lamb...

...Wild Boar (proof of popularity is the "Oggi Porchetta" sign that hangs in the mini market window 365 days a year),Wine, Chestnuts (venerated every autumn at our very own festival in Preggio nearby - you remember the Luigi story! ( You see how you have to keep up with the blog or you'll feel like you missed something?); Olive Oil (Everybody still makes their own and is really proud of the color); and pulses. A Pulse ( in Latin "puls" - I hadn't heard of them either) is an annual leguminous crop harvested solely for the dry seed. Pulses are an important food crops due to their high protein and essential amino acid content. Pulses also play a key role in crop rotation due to their ability to fix nitrogen; and, spelt. Honey was their only sweetener. It has taken us very modern people 2,000 years to figure our what they knew back then.

Same night sky viewed by Etruscans more than 2,000 years back.

Have we made much progress?!? Please let me know what you think.

Ciao for now,
Joan

References:
Etruscan society:
Etruscans: An Emancipated Society - The role of woman

WEDDINGS IN UMBRIA - UNIQUE, UNFORGETABLE …YET AFFORDABLE

2011-01-18T00:10:00.010-05:00

Salve tutti,
The Royal Wedding is coming up and we are going to be advertising in BRIDES (UK) magazine's April - May Issue which will feature Weddings Abroad and especially Italy as a #1 destination. But, I just wanted to give you a sneak preview and share a little bit of what we offer couples looking for a uniquely personal wedding celebration. The Royal Couples Wedding will be unique and unforgetable, but certainly not affordable (duh!!).

Allora, at Il Convento Mincione, some couples choose to add a blessings ceremony to their civil ceremony. These blessings are usually performed in our romantic 12th century medieval courtyard with its panoramic views of the Val Racchiusole.
This video peeking through the 13th century arch into the courtyard was made one Easter Sunday morning at 8:00 AM. I was the only one here. The day was quite overcast, but the thing I like the best about this clip is the sound of the birds chirping.

The shot below was taken late one mild afternoon in September. The couple and guests had a fabulous day and in this shot, the sun is just starting to set over the hills to the northwest. That's the direction of Preggio about 10km distant (more about Preggio later...please read until the end).

An intimate wedding celebration with a sumptuous, Italian country wedding banquet below...

And, yet another banquet table set up on the piazza in a U-shape overlooking the valley...

After the festivities couples like to visit the pool for a photo op...

And, when the big day is done, our California hot tub seems to be 'the' place to be...

At 927 meters, Mt. Acuto is the tallest mountain in the area and can be seen from near and far. We are located within the 'Ecomuseum Colli del Tezio', in triangle Assisi-Gubbio-Perugia, in a hilly rural area-approximately 450 km2. An eco-museum is a protected zone. Ours is in the remote northwestern tip of Umbria which surrounds Mt. Acuto. Multiple walking trails allow guests to explore the natural beauty that and encircles Il Convento Mincione and leads to the top of Mt. Acuto. Arceologists has found the remains of an Etruscan temple at the top and more recently a South American shaman has created a messa at the top. Both are protected by a fence, but you can see them. I am a little ashamed to devulge that I have never reached the top of Mt. Acuto, nor have I attempted to climb this famous peak. Maybe this year...
(Who believes me?)

And, Luigi will almost always be there waiting for you in the parking lot, when you get back.

Unless, like he does some days, he decides to accompany you. This very hot day in the beginning of July that I am thinking of in particular, Luigi decided to accompany our guests who were very seasoned hikers. They (the father and daughter and Luigi ) set out on a circular walk around 8:00 AM on a route that would take them near Preggio and back - down the valley up the hills and through the fields. Remember I mentioned Pregio at the beginning of this entry?

Well, what they told me when they got back was that everything was going great, until they started on their way back. By this time, the sun was high in the sky and Luigi had started huffing and puffing. They, the father and daughter, had given him water each time they had taken some themselves, but Luigi just wasn't going to make it back. So, the father picked Luigi up and carried him home. I don't remember just how long he carried Luigi, but it must have been at least a kilometer or two.

Luigi never left Jacques side after that. Here they are together, taking a rest and contemplating their adventure.

Ciao,
And please let me hear from you. Your comments are appreciated.
Joan
Press Release January 17, 2011:
WEDDINGS IN UMBRIA...UNIQUE, UNFORGETABLE...YET AFFORDABLE

Twitter / Home

2011-01-16T00:01:00.000-05:00

Twitter / Home: "ConventMincione Joan Arnay
Watch for Brand New Wedding Package to be announced at THISOLDCONVENT.com for Il Convento Mincione - Weddings in Umbria"

Umbria - THISOLDCONVENT.com Achieves Top Rankings on Major Travel Websites and Search Engines

2011-01-12T14:04:00.000-05:00

We are proud to share this press release with you our readers.

NYC - Holiday Blizzard 2010 vs Snow in the Val Racchiusole 2009 - Dig out or Chill Out?

2010-12-28T12:16:00.010-05:00

Ciao Cari,
I may have jinxed the LIRR in my blog entry of December 25th.

26 December 2010

MTA REPORTS THAT:Due to storm related switch trouble at Jamaica LIRR service is suspended from Penn Station and Atlantic Terminal. Westbound service is operating with delays ranging up to one hour and there are multiple train cancellations.

27 December 2010
LIRR passenger service remains suspended systemwide. High winds and drifting snow are making the effort to clear tracks and switches very challenging. This suspension will continue until safe and reliable service can be restored.

When the big storms hit NYC, I start to daydream about Umbria and the Val Racchiusole ...

Young Olive Trees on the Piazza

Mt. Tezio in the Distance

Our Annex

Whose Foot Steps?

Not Luigi XIV 'Il Piccolo Coraggioso' (The Little Courageous One) -
Looks like he needs some courage.

Looks like he found some.

Wishing you a Healthy and Happy New Year
with a little Prosperity thrown in for good measure.

Saluti,
Joan

NYC - XMAS Window Shopping - on a budget!

2010-12-25T01:47:00.004-05:00

Hi,

We're going to town to do some holiday window shopping today and you can't beat the Long Island Rail Road(LIRR) for speed and comfort (except when there is snow on the rails and the cars can't move and the heat goes out, BUT ... that happens very rarely.) Early on a Sunday morning, you are more likely to have to dodge the 'presents' left behind by the privileged teenagers going back to Long Island on the 5:20(am) after a 'great' night of trawling the city. But, today is Friday December 24th and we are out for a good time of our own.

All a-board!

Gees! That's some train, isn't it? Well, after arriving at Pennsylvania Station, we take the E train, the subway - it's just as long - uptown and start our descent into the epicenter of holiday spirit - 5th Avenue.

Our first stop is TIFFANY's. We have already had our breakfast, so we are ready to enjoy the display windows, but not buy. Remember - we are on a budget - $0.00!

CARTIER, GUCCI , FENDI

FENDI deserves special note.

I seems that the east side of 5th Avenue has most, not all, but most of the elegant stores. Let me show you what I mean.

Getting hungry?? This guy is out to temp even the most controlled among us. He's got pretzels (and mustard), chili dogs, and ...

... chestnuts which I usually cannot resist except that I have lost ten pounds since I got back and I don't dare ruin my losing streak.

SWAROVSKI on west side.

So, we continue our descent and come across a very groovy new store with its west coast Pacific ocean theme and on the west site of 5th Ave. at that!

HOLLISTER'S. Have you heard of it? I hadn't.

This store deserves a video clip as well. Note the noise level on the streets of Manhattan.

In fact, after I went inside, I decided to go in again armed with my handy FUGI FinePix at hip height to let you in on just how groovy this place is.

Okay, you have been very patient we are finally there ... 30 Rock! Here it is on the west side. (If your getting a little dizzy turning your head from left to right and then back, take a short break. I'll wait for you.

SAKS 5TH AVENUE on the east side has the strangest windows this year, but I like the reflections of Rockefeller Center in the glass. Check out the American flags while you are at it. They are everywhere you look in Manhattan.

Now the tree. What would a holiday spirit tour be without THE tree. It is so big it has to be anchored to the ground with tension wires. See them?

Seven sisters from Canada came down to see it!

Not every store is extravagantly decked out. Note KENNETH COLE. What were they thinking?

Back to gold and red.

Here are some places you have heard of even if you haven't visited NYC yet. I dinned at the Rainbow Room in the 70's. And, Radio City Music Hall - who can forget the first time they saw the Rockettes?

Are you getting tired? I am. Let's go home! Okay. Can you believe the traffic? Talk about traffic - If you want to see the contrasts in my life go back to my blog entry dated April 2010 to see what we call heavy traffic on our way home from Umbertide through theVal Racchiusole.

We'll just grab the Express Bus over the 59th Street Bridge. You just had a window shopping spree and didn't

spend a cent. Now isn't that groovy?

Ciao! From Joan In NYC.

P.S. What would you like to visit next? Let me know and I'll do my best.

NYC - New York Public Library and suroundings in Mid-Town Manhattan

2010-12-23T15:20:00.002-05:00

Getting into the spirit in NYC at 42nd Street and 7th Avenue Subway Station.

Five policemen take a break and watch as a group of musicians from South America prepare to entertain. Musicians are welcome to perform by the City. Licenses are required.

First stop Bryant Park Skating rink - FREE to the public.

On to the NYC Public Library which is the building right there. Note the famous lions that guard the entrance. I only photographed the lion on the right of the main entrance, since there is construction going on behind the lion on the left .

I have been a New Yorker all my life, but this is the first time that I have taken a proper tour of our very famous landmark. It is spectacular (one of my favorite adjectives) inside and out! Our guide remarked that in Europe the grand buildings were constructed for royalty, but in America this grand structure was constructed for the pleasure and edification of the people. Vive la difference! (I also like exclamation points a lot.)

This incredible publications reading room was renovated by the couple that founded the Reader's Digest one of the first family magazines in 1922, DeWitt and Lila Bell Wallace. The couple used to come to the library and copy articles by hand, which they would later condense for the general public. They made millions and then gave back. In addition to funding the renovation, they added murals depicting the buildings of several famous NYC publishing houses. The tables and chairs are made of the most beautiful polished wood and you can go there and read (or rest ) for as long as you wish.

Another benefactor of the NYPL was a penniless Romanian immigrant who came to the USA at the turn of the century without knowing a word of English. He went the library where some librarians helped him to learn English. He went on to be a prosperous financier and left millions of $s (in the six figures) to the library in thanks. The names of many well-known benefactors are etched on the marble pillars that line the main entrance of the 42nd Street branch of the New York Public Library, but an innocuous marble slab with this little know immigrants name on it was place in the floor in a prominent position just inside the main entrance. Proof positive that America is (or was) the land of opportunity.

This in a photo of some of the stacks. They are off limits to the public. Ask for a book at the desk and they will retrieve it for you. If your choice is not here in NYC, it may be in Princeton New Jersey. In that case, it will be delivered next day. By the way the NYPL catalogues every thing in print from Playboy ( and worse) to hand bills distributed on the street, which they collect once a month.

Winnie the Pooh, is a children's standard. You find editions at booksellers all over (Borders, Amazon, etc.), but the original stuffed animals that inspired A.A. Milne to write the stories for his son, Christopher Robin can be found preserved under glass right here in the Children's Room of the NYC Public Library! (And that deserves an exclamation point).

It seems that this bank of telephones, which are found on the lower level of the building and still work, may soon be found in the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC.

Once outside, it back to the mundane...

Souvenirs anyone? The sign in the lower right hand of the shop window is a quote from Joe DiMaggio,
"I thank G-d for making me a Yankee!" (Honest).

The Empire State Building and...

Getting hungry? There is always something to eat just a step away. This is an Indian Halal food truck. I found the decoration more enticing that the offerings, but it's up to you.

Thanks for reading and you will be hearing from me sooner that you think.
Ciao for now.
Joan in NYC

Central Park NYC Autumn 2010

2010-11-27T12:22:00.000-05:00

Here I am at the 59th Street entrance to Central Park. Doesn't the shot below make you want to take a short jog in the park? You can, you know. NYC is safer than ever thanks to Mayors Giuliani and Bloomberg.
It is November - just a few days before Thanksgiving (our most popular national holiday) and the weather is balmy as I begin to stroll.
This is a great time of year to .visit New York (Warning!! For those of you who have recently moved away from NYC, this blog entry my be difficult to watch!)

Available for the romantically inclined: A Horse and Carriage in Central Park

or perhaps...

A PediCab will suit you better.

If you need a rest, his is a good place.

This Hot Dog Stand is just one of the zillions of types of food stands that dot the streets of NYC. If you are hungry the aromas are hard to resist. Some people with more refined food tastes don't like the smells - but I am not one of them.

These Columbus Circle Skyscrapers have apartments that cost millions of dollars. They average 70 - 80 stories and have s-p-e-c-t-a-c-u-l-a-r views of Central Park.

This Columbus Circle vendor is out-to-lunch, but it seems that he is not worried about his merchandise.

In a rush? Time Short? There are several Sight Seeing Bus companies to choose from. You can Hop-on Hop-Off and catch it all.

The Subway Station at Columbus Circle is a hub that connects Uptown and Downtown - East Side and West Side. A very strategic area to choose a hotel. Visitors can now rent bicycles (like in Amsterdam), but it is not for the faint of heart.

At Columbus Circle the Museum of Art and Design has a snazzy BMW in the display window that is decorated with Native American motifs. They have the most fabulous gift shop, too. Get there before Christmas!!!

Take a look at NYC - Grand Central Station the day before Thanksgiving.

If you get the notion to visit NYC. Write to me and I'll be sure to meet you and show you around a bit.
See you soon!

Saluti,

Joan

Our Road Home Through the Val Racciusole, Umbertide Umbria Italy

2010-04-20T11:52:00.000-04:00

This is the route that we take home from Umbertide.

We usually pass a car or two, but sometimes we hit some “heavy" traffic.

FIC

Once again the road is clear as we pump up some lame Rock ‘n’ Roll CD that I bought on my third trip to Pompeii.

Continue to the right towards Preggio.

Then you will see the Old Mincione Road going off the main road to the right.

Il Convento Mincione appears on 14th c. Gregorian Maps. Mincione is that square circled in red.

You will come to an open field on the right. Be careful as you drive because and you may have to break for a deer. This doesn’t happen often (this is our first deer in seven years), but there is always something to break for; i.e. hare, porcupines, frogs after a rain, pheasants, etc.

I had to paint these triangles on the tree in the bend in the road, because my “Mincione” sign, painted on a piece of old wood, was removed when I nailed it to this very same tree. Maybe someone wanted the sign or didn’t like the fact that I nailed it on the tree.

Make the very sharp hair-pin turn up to the right and here we are almost home.
Mincione peeps through the trees.

You thought there was no more adventure on our road home, but that is not the case.
On the left you see an antique well. It is totally covered over with brambles in the summer time.

Antique roadside well close up.

Home Sweet Home!

Ascagnano Thoroughbred Race Horses

2010-04-17T12:55:00.001-04:00

These fabulous Ascagnano Thoroughbreds are being raised on a farm nearby, in the sleepy township of La Bruna (pop. 400 pax), which is located just outside of Umbertide. You can see the horses from the road that leads from Pier Antonio (Rock of Antonio) exit of the E45 to La Bruna (the “Brunette”; see pics.). This country road has been dubbed “La Strada di Vino e Olivi”, because you will see kilometers of meticulously maintained vineyards and graceful olive groves as you travel along its path between Gubbio, in the north of the Upper Tiber Valley, and to Lago Trasimeno in the south.

Our new friend from South Africa (you’ll hear outside Umbertide more about her in another blog post) lives on the inner road that goes right past their corrals and stables and that is how I was able to get so up close and personal (I’ll take you there too, when you visit.) with these marvelous beasts of burden.

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Click here to download:

Ascagnano.MSWMM (6 KB)

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Ba Ba White Sheep

2010-04-13T07:43:00.001-04:00

http://www.squidoo.com/ConventMincione

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Viva SMMU! (Social Media Magic U.)

2010-03-25T21:01:00.001-04:00

Today I learned how to utilize video in social media to enhance visibility for Il Convento Mincione. Viva SMMU! (Social Media Magic U.) What a concentration of valuable information! did you know that Youtube is the second most used search engine for finding answers to the questions that concern people today. Thank you Lou Bortone and John Sousa.

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L'Accademia di Belle Arti of Perugia on YouTube

2010-03-23T21:29:00.000-04:00

This charming short created by the students of the Academy of Fine Arts of Perugia is seen on YouTube. You take a very bumpy video ride through the streets of Perugia straight to the doors of the Academy, which swing open to let you in on what's going on with the very hip students who learn there.

Professor Giuliano Giuman is one of the instructors.

Bah...Bah...White Sheep

2010-03-23T19:25:00.000-04:00

Learn the story of the ultra-short stay of three sweet little lambs that became large smelly sheep and started to eat everything in sight.

How to Twitter 101

2010-03-17T11:30:00.001-04:00

Dave Barnhart: Micro-blogging and Twitter 101 (5th session of Social Media Magic U.).

Wow! What an eye-opener. In a very clear and precise manner Dave explained the rudiments and beyond of Twittering, which seems quite daunting without guidance.

I can't wait for the second, more in-depth session. You are going to be seeing Umbria Holiday - Il Convento Mincione http://www.thisoldconvent.com/ everywhere!!

Young Survival Coalition

2010-03-13T16:20:00.001-05:00

Joan and Roney became Facebook Fans of Young Survival Coalition today. Please consider becoming a Facebook Fan of this worthy cause yourself.

The Met 2010 - Joan visits Bronzino Exhibit

2010-03-11T13:46:00.002-05:00

Establishing shot of the Met with NYPD car and NYC Taxi Cab

Joan In Umbria: Bronzino, Italian (1503-1572) at the Met

2010-03-09T19:34:00.001-05:00

Joan Plans a visit: Bronzino, Italian (1503-1572) at the Met

Bronzino, Italian (1503-1572) at the Met

2010-03-09T18:11:00.002-05:00

Girls day out at the Met! Cousin Mimi, Roney and I will view the Bronzino drawings exhibit among other things.
Let you know what I think tomorrow. Ciao!

Macy's NYC Carry on luggage

2010-03-05T10:05:00.000-05:00

I'm off to meet cousin Mimi at the Macy's luggage department. I am looking for a new carry-on.

Social Media Magic U. First Post

2010-03-04T19:53:00.000-05:00

Okay. So, you want to know how I'm spending my time in NYC. Well, Silvana flew in on Thursday and we visited the MoMA, Brooklyn Museum, Museum of Jewish Heritage and the Neue Galleries on four successive days.

Lots of art...lots of steps... lots of fun!

And, on Tuesday I started Social Media Magic University.

Today I attended the second session which introduced us to blogs. So, here I am!!