It’s difficult to describe the splendor that graced my eyes as I travled by train through the Italian countryside from Milan to Lavorno Ferarrais in Piemonte, never before can I remember seeing such beautiful countryside.
In recent days there has been heavy rain in the region, that remained hidden in the fields of green and gold creating an artist dream, as it sparkled in the sunshine like diamond dust, sprinkled, in the lush green rice fields and among the corn crops that stretched for miles like green blankets towards the distant horizon of black, snow -capped mountains, that seemed to caress the soft white clouds, floating in the pale blue sky, at times making it difficult to define where the snow topped peaks ended and the clouds began.
Between the field’s small canal’s of clear water flowed, shining, as they rippled and danced in the sunshine. Some, I guess, man-made, to irrigate the fields, or perhaps as I prefer to believe blessing of Nympha, Lacturna, Matura, Nodotus & Volutina to nurture nature ,our beautiful planet and all that inhabits it.
Later as I sat alone in the courtyard of my friends beautiful old farmhouse, with its own interesting tale and place in local history.
Watching the moon float in a dark blue sky surrounded by sparkling stars I felt touched by the spirit’s in the sky and lush field’s that surrounded me. Sitting quietly ,this old Heathen gave her own quiet thanks to the gods, and spirits that I could feel filling my soul with a deep sence of peace and joy, the likes of which I have not felt for many a day. I felt greatful & blessed to have friends who lived in such a paradise whose hospitality and kindness allowed me to experience such beauty and splendor of nature , that made me feel glad and thankful to be alive.