A New, Old Friend
For the past week and a half, Dorn, my dear friend from college has shared this Tuscan life with me. She arrived in Florence, via Brussels, from Virginia on her first big trip since her husband died almost two years ago.
Through decades of Christmas card exchanges we had stayed in touch, sharing major life events. Rory, Dorn’s husband, was a Naval Academy grad and his career took them around the country. About a dozen years ago, with children raised and a bit more flexibility we did manage one visit with a third college friend.
More time passed until the arrival of the Christmas note that reforged our friendship. Rory had been diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). They were living in Virginia and Dorn was his caregiver. With one phone call, we were once again college friends exchanging stories, lots of laughter, some tears - supporting each other as we had done all those years ago. We shared a few lunches when I was in DC and Rory was in day care but mostly kept in touch by phone.
Last year when I made plans to move to Italy, I invited Dorn to visit. I was delighted when she called to say she had booked her flight!
Dorn’s days here have included excursions to a few new places as we wander through the Tuscan countryside. What a treat it has been to have someone say, “It’s clear my way!” on those crazy roads! We sampled some Tuscan culinary classics and prepared a few simple meals in my kitchen.
Without a doubt though, we both agree, the very best times have been the quiet days here in Panzano, living like a local. Morning cappuchino in the piazza, an afternoon gelato, reading in the shade of the terrace during the high heat of the day, greeting neighbors as we meander through town with a Buongiorno or Buonasera, an evening walk into the hills (on the lookout for cinghiale!) and shopping at Sunday market. Life’s true joy is found in the simplest things. I feel blessed to have shared these with Dorn.
This apartment will feel empty and quiet without the light my warm, witty and delightful old friend has brought here. I hope I can convince her to return at least once more before I leave!
Dorn at a Thursday evening concert at Vinaria in Panzano ( a story for another day)
Here we are now and then ..1975 at Albright
