Udine, Friuli-Venezia Giulia

It has been years since I have been to Udine, so I was pleased to have gone there today with Daniela (my Dad's cousin). I found the town to be elegant and subtly charming. The piazza's were dominated by limestone buildings, ornately decorated arches and classic sculptures; the churches had beautiful frescos and iconography; the people seemed sophisticated and were beautifully dressed; and an appreciation of the arts seemed to be a universal passion.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Traveling to Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Before reading the following entry, click the arrow below to initiate the video.

After packing my designer luggage with black ensembles, a pashmina wrap, fur trimmed coat, woolen crocheted stockings, leather knee high boots, leather gloves & my Canon I'm off to explore Friuli-Venezia Giulia in northeast Italy.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia borders the region of Veneto to the west, the republics of Austria and Slovenia to the north and east, and the Adriatic Sea to the south. Udine is the historical capital of Friuli.

http://maps.google.com/maps?q=friuli%20venzia%20giulia&sourceid=ie7&rls=com.microsoft:en-US&ie=UTF-8&oe=utf8&um=1&sa=N&tab=wl

In particular I'm looking forward to going to 'Sedegliano' (Friulian Sedean). A small town in the province of Udine where my Dad was born and where he lived until he immigrated to Australia in 1955.

Some of my Dad's relatives still live in Sedegliano and I hope to visit them whilst I'm there. I'm sure the experience will be beautiful, sentimental, and emotional.

I'll see you in a few days.

Love Jules

Love Letters

As the sun sets over the skyline of Florence, I arrive home in time to take a quick break before heading out again. The days blend into night, one event follows another, and the company of my friends makes these last weeks in Italy very precious.

After attending mass at Chiesa San Annunciata this morning, I went to Piazza Republica to have lunch and go shopping. As I walked down the main streets, dressed in a camel leather skirt, black cashmere top, an alpaca fur trimmed vest, black shawl, lace tights and boots, I felt like I was part of a movie.

The shops are full of beautiful winter clothes and accessories and a palette of vibrant colors; and the murmur of traffic, high pitched conversations and high heeled shoes on the cobblestones is like an orchestra tuning.

I love to immerse myself in the middle of it all and often I have the desire to close my eyes so that I can hold onto these moments.

Tonight we are going to Teatro Cestello in San Frediano, Firenze to see the production of "Love Letters" by A.R. Gurney.

I first saw the Pulitzer Prize winning play (drama) with Jamilla at the old Mietta's in Melbourne and last year saw it performed in Firenze with Marco. The script is wonderful and centers on just two characters; Melissa Gardner and Andrew Makepiece Ladd III. As the play develops so do their characters, as they sit side by side at tables on the stage reading the correspondence they exchange through their lives. Letters which convey their hopes and ambitions, dreams and disappointments, victories and defeats. Emotionally the letters unite them, but physically they remain separated for most of their relationship.

Ho voglio di te

Italian's know how to express themselves through language, film, food, art & music. Tiziano Ferro is a popular Italian artist and his song 'Ho voglio di te; Ti scatterò una foto' is quite beautiful. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=776rIpMQ6YI

Manuela

Manuela & Jules at the Brazilian night - wine, food, dancing and socialising..

Manuela lives in Sesto Florentine in Firenze and we met at the H&M's first selection day (she was the 'green ribbon girl' and I was the 'red ribbon girl' - but that's another story). Manuela's smile is radiant and she laughs with ease.

During the practical exercises our vibrant personalities, good communication/interpersonal skills, and leadership qualities were evident; and on a personal level our harmonious personalities were evident. By the time we had walked from Hotel Rivoli to Santa Maria Novelle train station (a 5 minute walk) we had already planned to travel together around Italy to attend H&M's training sessions. Naturally we were convinced we got the jobs!

Whilst I return to Australia and no longer intend to proceed with this international marketing company, Manuela is keen to work for H&M and to explore the many opportunities the company has the potential to provide. I wish her every success both in this quest and all her other ambitions.

Artichoke

I’ve awoken from a restful sleep with the sun streaming into my bedroom, the gentle rustle of the traffic and a light heart. A new day begins.

I’ve been lying in bed reading and thinking a little about the last four months and how much things have changed. How blessed I am to have had the time, space and solitude to think, feel and grow.

Artichoke

The nubbed leaves
Come way
In a tease of green, thinning
Down to the membrane:
The quick, purples,
Beginnings of the male.

Then the slow hairs of the heart:
The choke that guards its trophy,
It vegetable goblet.
The meat of it lies, displayed,
Up-ended, al dente,
The sub-root aching in its oil.

Robin Robertson
'Painted Field'

Having dreams

Another defining moment in global history was created today with the election of Barack Obama as the President of the USA.

When I awoke this morning and heard the announcement on the Italian radio station I almost cried.

Then I remembered Martin Luther's King's moving and inspiring speech on August 28, 1963, from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial (a defining moment of the American Civil Rights Movement).

To view the video below click on the arrow.

After spending weeks evaluating my options with logic, passion, long walks, bottomless coffees and crayola pencils, I've come to a decision... in two weeks I'm returning to Australia. Naturally leaving Italy is difficult, but the thought of returning home to see everyone and knowning that it's summer is exciting. And I'm looking forward to renting a place by the beach; cruising the Great Ocean Road in my little convertible with the top down, the music up & the Gucci's on, painting, cycling, kayaking, hiking & swimming; celebrating Christmas, New Year's Eve, Jessica's 40th; and enjoying the company of family & friends. Then within six months I hope to be back in Italy. My decision feels right & I'm smiling again.

Finally I have some linear path to follow and although it has been a long, exhausting and convoluted path to arrive at this embryonic stage; struggling through the maze and the myraid of experiences has made me more determined to live my life and my dreams. It has also made me realise that: in life we all make sacrifices for the things we want; if we do not pursue our dreams we create shadows of ourselves; sometimes to arrive at our destination we have to take five steps back or journey around the globe (several times!!); listen to the voice within and don't let anything or anyone extinguish the flame.

These decisions make my heart sing but if I met the man of my dreams tomorrow, I may give them all up and reshuffle my cards. Or perhaps I meet my soul mate and we can share these experiences together? Anyway in the meantime I might as well live my life to it's fullest capacity, enjoy the people in my life and immerse myself in all life's colors, sensations and challenges.

Via 27Aprile, Firenze

These are a few photos of my apartment in Firenze which I live in with Yadira & Carlotta. I have been quite blessed to live in such a gorgeous and large home in the centre of Firenze. The apartment consists of two levels and has a open plan living design. It is decorated with antiques, statues, framed paintings and books on artists, travel destinations, European poetry and interesting novels. I have a large bedroom with a view of Il Duomo, enough space for all my clothes and accessories, and a corner where I paint and day dream.

The link below allows you to see the actual street where I live. If you look closely you can see the cafe on the corner (where I go to regularly) and my bedroom window. http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=115833288355014160503.000459520aadd792fcc59&ll=43.781536,11.255686&spn=0.006925,0.019011&z=16

Thank you

Its 1:55am. Everyone is asleep, the streets are quiet, the sky pitch dark and I'm falling asleep at my computer...

But before I go to bed I have to send a big "THANK YOU" to everyone who has written to me recently and given me fresh insights, compassion, and guidance - what loving friendships - you enrich my life.

Ti ringrazio e ti bacio.

I'll see you shortly in my dreams - Goodnight my angels.

Dietrofronte

Equal measure of joy & angst

No photo today just a few lines.

In the opinion of those who know or have meet me in Italy, I'm considered to be more Italian than Australian. Naturally, this is partly true because Italy has always been a part of my dreams, passions and spirit - and these emotions will always be alive within me.

However I feel defeated, because in spite of many beautiful, fortunate and memorable moments; the dreams and hopes I had aspired to achieve here, have not eventuated. Although I acknowledge that Rome wasn't built in a day and that Italy is not simply Firenze; I've tried relentlessly and yet have not been able to find a continuous thread or the opportunities I was searching for.

Maybe what I'm searching for isn't here and all this time I've just been continuing my love affair with Italy? It's possible, because it's truly difficult to let go of the things we hold dear.

As I grieve in anticipation of my imminent departure, I realize that strong sentimental emotions are a part of who I am. As Alain Resnais wrote "Io voglio amare, si, voglio il fuoco e voglio il ghiaccio. Rifiuto quella tiepida dolcezza in cui mi volevi immergere. Tu non puoi capire che la vera felicita sono in realta lampi che ci bruciano, che ci annientano."

I'm very attached to Firenze and all it represents... but I think that it is time I leave.

The decision brings an equal measure of joy and angst.

Dinner Party Secrets

This evening as I stood in the kitchen in my gym gear, listening to a local Italian radio station, whistling and gently rolling homemade gnocchi between my hands, I felt like I was at home in North Carlton or down at Point Lonsdale preparing a meal for one of our many dinner parties.

It was fun to be able to cook, entertain and enjoy the company of some special friends.

The Menu: Chilled Moscato d'Asti served with pan fried zucchini flowers filled with mascapone Gorgonzola cheese, walnuts and pepper. Followed by potatoe gnocchi & braised veal, served with a ragu of onion, leek, mushrooms, peas and a little Chanti.

Music: Giovanni Allevi & Elixir.
Setting: Our simple Tuscan home enhanced by candlelight.

Why should I cry for you

Sometimes as I'm walking through the streets of Firenze, I like to listen to this song by Sting.

Why Should I Cry For You by Sting

Under the dog star sail
Over the reefs of moonshine
Under the skies of fall
North, north west, the Stones of Faroe

Under the Arctic fire
Over the seas of silence
Hauling on frozen ropes
For all my days remaining
But would north be true?

All colours bleed to red
Asleep on the ocean's bed
Drifting on empty seas
For all my days remaining

But would north be true?
Why should I?
Why should I cry for you?
Dark angels follow me
Over a godless sea
Mountains of endless falling,
For all my days remaining,

What would be true?

Sometimes I see your face,
The stars seem to lose their place
Why must I think of you?
Why must I?
Why should I?
Why should I cry for you?
Why would you want me to?
And what would it mean to say,
That, "I loved you in my fashion"?

What would be true?
Why should I?
Why should I cry for you?

Searching for a rainbow

Ciao, Over the last few weeks, I have been concentrating on finding a work contract in Firenze. It has been a long and arduous task but the outcome looked positive... that was until my three month tourist visa expired and I realised I could not accept any work contracts.

Now my time here is on the thin edge of a blade. This week I have been devoting every waking hour, thought, conversation and all my energies on finding the 'right' solution.

Two main questions circulate in my mind: 1. Do I leave the niche I have began to create here in Firenze and return to Australia?; 2. Do I return to Australia for a few months-years and return once all my documents etc are in order?

The thought of packing up my belongings and leaving Firenze brings me to tears. For whilst I feel like I've been going in circles and have achieved 49-51% of what I had hoped to achieve I am proud to have come this far and want to see it through to the end. I also know however that I want a professional focus again. Not an all consuming professional objective, but it's time to return to my career, as it is a large part of who I am.

My friends in Firenze have been supportive, nurturing and are making every attempt to find a solution for me. They are my angels here and if I go I'll miss them dearly.

I'm at a cross road. I'm tired, frustrated and today feel defeated. But no one can make this decision for me so I must stay focused and keep going... Right???

I've just taken this photo above as I'm seated at my computer on the outdoor terrace of the Biblioteca dell'Obliate in Firenze. It's raining outside but the sky is still blue. Once the rain ceases, I'm hoping to see a rainbow arch Il Duomo which lies in the distance.

Baci Jules

Stolen glances

Recently whilst out walking I've discovered the most gorgeous countryside and hidden treasures within minutes of the centre of the city: Del Pian dei Giullari, Villa Pazzi and Villa Galileo beyond Piazza Michelangelo; and Via della Madonna della Pace and the garden surrounding the State Art Institute near Porta Romana.

These are photos of some of my impressions and stolen glances.

Claudia & Lorenzo

At last I have a photo of this handsome Italian couple.

Since our first encounter at Andrea and Diane's villa in May 2007, I have had the pleasure to share many special, fun and memorable moments with Claudia & Lorenzo. Their qualities and values resonant with me and I value their integrity, sincerity and friendship. They are a beautiful and inspiring unit.

Olga's Birthday celebration

Angelo & Olga (above left); wrought iron lighting and florentine frescoes (right).

Carmen & Sandra (above left); Zelka & Nadia (above right); Carmen & Amer (below left); Jules (below right).

(Above) Angelo, Olga, Jules & Nadia

"A room with a view of the Arno River and the Ponte Vecchio, a gathering of international friends, black suede lounges, frescoed ceilings & middle eastern light fittings, a DJ mixing the tunes, crushed berries & vodka cocktails, laid back conversation & laughter, and one very stylish & gorgeous women named Olga."

Happy Birthday Olga.

Cara Olga Auguri e baci per tuo compleanno. Stai aperta, dolce e onesta e tuoi sogni saranno realizzati. Spero che troviate i opportunites per seguire. xj

Pedolta per Meyer

Cycling with the Florentines

Distance: 80km Average speed: 35km/hr
http://maps.google.com/mapsf=d&saddr=Via+27+Aprile,+50129+Firenze+Florence,+Tuscany,+Italy&daddr=san+Casciano+to:Montespertoli+to:Via+27+Aprile,+50129+Firenze+Florence,+Tuscany,+Italy&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=43.779584,11.255686&sspn=0.007638,0.012832&g=Via+27+Aprile,+50129+Firenze+Florence,+Tuscany,+Italy&ie=UTF8&t=p&z=11

Despite wavering enthusiasm, undismissable self doubt and cold limbs, at 7.40am this morning Lorenzo, Barbara & I met up in the centre of Firenze, before joining the Florentine cycling group to participate in the Pedolta per Meyer benefit ride and my first experience of riding with these lean, enthusiastic and charming Florentine cyclists.

Before my first latte at San Casciano we cycled 40km over undulating Tuscan hills, past scenic vistas and winding valleys bathed in autumn sunlight. Although Valentino was as commendable as always, riding with the Italians and trying to maintain their racing pace was challenging. My legs had the endurance, strength and stamina, but I had to work twice as hard to cover the distance. However according to Lorenzo (head of the Florentine cycling group) my tenacity and form has already qualified me for their cycling squad...!

Riding with them was wonderful and such a buzz. I felt so privileged to be part of the group. Ahhh...and so another dream has been fulfilled. I can't believe it.. I'm so happy.

(Above) Overwhelmed Jules & Lorenzo at 7.40am.

I had no idea what the day would hold and honestly I was too scared to ask.

The Florentine cycling group at the start of the Pedolta per Meyer

Sunday October 26th, 2008 Firenze.

Coffee break (above) Barbara & Jules, (below) Jules, Morandi, Barbara & Afredo


Lorenzo & the Italian cyclists on a dreamy descent back home to Firenze.

Christmas wishes

Dear Santa, In addition to all my other requests, could I please ask for a new Italian cycling beau.

PS. Caro Valentino, Mi perdona. Ti amo e sarei sempre la mia prima amore.

Aussie eyes

A room full of lions, with hearts like chocolate baked muffins.

I can't remember the last time I walked into a room filled with unfamiliar and eceletic faces and only saw kindered spirits. Despite age, appearance, education, profession, social, financial or marital status; each woman in that room had an interesting, poetic and inspiring story to tell. And keen to share their experiences of how they came to Firenze to pursue a whim and a dream, how they fell in and out of love, found their niches, established international friendships and lost themselves admiring the beauty of the Ponte Vecchio's reflection on the Arno River.

As I went to walk out the door, Debra's determined and yet gentle eyes met mine. She kissed me on both cheeks and wished me luck with my Italian endeavours.

"You can do it. You will make it and when you return to Australia you will be stronger for these experiences. After this, there is nothing you can't do..."

After pausing to drape a shawl across her shoulders, she concluded "You know I've lived in Firenze for over 30 years and 'my girl' in our days it was tough! I suffered a lot. It was hard.. but I did it! And so will you".

Then as she smiled benevolently goodbye she added "Good luck!"

Ponte Vecchio & the Arno River, Firenze

Playing the "merry-go-round"

Instructions on how to play the Italian "merry-go-round"

You will need the following:
1. To be a tourist/professional/student/citizen from a country other than Italy
2. To have a clear objective of what you are trying to achieve
3. To have a realistic time frame of when you what to achieve your objective
4. Lance Armstrong's determination, Mother Teresa's patience, Nelson Mandela's diplomatic and negotiation skills & (depending upon your preference Sophia Loren, Audrey Hepburn, Fred Hollows or Pierce Bronson beauty/charm)
5. Most importantly a lot of time to play this game.

How to play the "merry-go-round":
First you visit Italy on a 3 month student/tourist visa with the objective of establishing a nursing contract. After several attempts to find a nursing contract or endless attempts to speak to someone in the Italian health care system (regarding what the process is to apply for a nursing position in Italy), you can attempt to obtain a permesso di sigiorno (this enables you to work in any contracted position in Italy).

To obtain more information regarding "nursing in Italy" or "permesso di sigiorno" you can visit 1. The Australian Embassy in Australia - however the information they provide is often limited and contradicted when you arrive in Italy.

2. The Australian Embassy in Rome, Italy - there is no Embassy in Firenze.

3. The British Embassy in Firenze - as they are often an excellent initial resource.

For example.

Select option No.3.

When you arrive at the British Embassy in Firenze, the office will be closed so you need to wait and return in two hours. Once you speak to a representative at the British Embassy they will listen patiently to your issue and then explain that they are unable to help you and that you need to speak to the Australian Embassy or consulate in Rome. The Australian Embassy and Consulate is closed now, so you need to ring in the morning. The next day when you ring, you will need to wait on line for 10-15minutes. When someone answers they will direct you to another representative at the Consulate. After you explain your enquiry the second person will kindly direct you to the third representative and after you explain your enquiry they will state that they can not help you and that you need to go to the Questura in Firenze. The Questura office is now closed. It reopens at 8am the next morning. The following day you arrive at the Questura at 7.30am to avoid the long queues. The office doors opened at 8.15am. You then explain at length your situation and purpose of visit to one of the Italian officers at the Questura. He will then advise you to return to the office at 9.30am when that office opens. When you return to the Questura office, you will need to take a number which places you in a queue and take a seat with the ten or more people that are been waiting before you. When your number is finally called the officer at the Questura will ask you to explain your situation and then politely tell you that they can not assist you and that you need to go to another office at the Questura. Once again you will be required to explain your situation at length before being told that they can not assist you and that your enquiry would be addressed at another office (the Prefettura) in Firenze. You then travel to the Prefettura. At the reception area you will explain your situation gain at length before being given a some papers with the contact details of the office hours and the phone numbers you need to ring to make an appointment. The offices are now all closed. If you try to explain you situation with greater urgency and charm they will direct you to personnel at the Prefettura. You will then take a seat beside 15 or more other migrants waiting before you. When the personnel exits their office to answer a personal call and makes eye contact briefly with you, you can attempt to engage them with your enquiry. in my case I explained my situation in detail whilst standing in the corridor outside their office. In my experience, the advice I was given was that they couldn't assist me with my enquires and that I couldn't make an appointment to speak to them because they are always occupied with other enquires. However, if I wanted to pursue the matter, I could ring during certain hours on certain days to speak to her colleague and see if I could register a time to make an appointment to have my enquiry addressed.