Just before I arrived (dazed and confused) at La Fattoria del Gelso on Saturday, the tomatoes were harvested.

Heaps of fresh tomatoes lay in the bowl, far more than could possibly be eaten.

Through hard work and diligence (and a little encouragement from i bambini), these precious summer tomatoes can be turned into something wonderful to use once their time has passed – tomato sauce.

As I write this, I have been in Cannara for three days , and have absorbed a lot in such a small time. It is tempting to get overwhelmed, by the amount of things to see, and visit, and eat…the people I want to talk to, the talking (in Italian) that I want to improve. But it is also important know that I do not need to consume everything, but instead to enjoy the extreme ripeness of the moment, and tuck some away for later. Whether it be through photos, a recipe from an Italian friend, or a small ceramic, I can embrace this summer moment, but also know that Italy will still be with me when I go home.

On a dreary day in winter, perhaps a can of this summer juice can be opened, and remind Marco and his family of this lovely hot day in August.

Take in all of the bounty, process it, and save a bit for later.

Ci Vediamo!

— Elsa