Andrew & me at my Mom's for Christmas Eve
Life is so full of surprises. One evening in April, on a whim, I created “Orvieto or Bust”. At the time I didn’t know that by publishing my first post I would officially become a “blogger” – I was only looking for a place to chronicle my experiences in a little Umbrian hill town in Italy. The unintended result has been the discovery of a latent love for writing that has fulfilled me in ways I never could have predicted and nearly eight months later, can’t imagine living without. With the assistance of the weird and wonderful internet, I am able to send my ramblings into cyberspace where I have had the opportunity to connect with some amazing people from all over the world. It is to you, the people who have supported and encouraged me, that I send my love, affection and sincere gratitude and wish you and your families all the best in 2012. Hugs and kisses. Toni
Orvieto or Bust: 
The comments to your posts are the evidence of how many hearts you have touched near and far Toni. Including mine! May 2012 bring you even more delights and fulfilling experiences! Merry Christmas to you and yours….hugs and kisses, Denise
Thank you Diane…you are one of the best gifts I have received this year. As I told you before – you were “my first” comment. I remember how astounded I was that someone actually READ my posting and then had the where-with-all to actually send me a note! It was so great and I enjoy “chatting” with you as our lives unfold. Congrats again on your new grandchild and when I raise my glass on Prosecco, I will toast to you for a great 2012. Hugs. Toni
I feel the same way about blogging. I started mine to help people staying at my place in Bagni di Lucca find things to do, but I find that I love the process. The blog has grown far beyond what I expected. M
I hope you had a great Christmas.
Can’t imagine life without it now, love meeting great friends and slowly getting to know you… here’s to 2012 and many more blog posts!
ciao and Merry Christmas
love lisa x
All the best to you Toni for 2012, and I am looking forward to your blogging posts in the coming year.
Toni, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed traveling with you to your beloved Orvieto via your blog this year, I look forward to the next.
A couple of favorites are – My Father (very touching),(Grandma verses the evil spirits (funny).
Sending back some love and affection,Cindy
Thank you Cindy,
It is so good to hear from you! How are you? Did you have a good Christmas with your family? I am at my Mom’s with Andrew having a nice visit. I wish you the best in 2012 and maybe this year we will finally be able to connect. Big hug to you. Toni
P.S. BTW: Some sad news: You might remember my brother’s best friend, George Gutierrez (I am sure your brothers do). Anyway, he passed away last week unexpectedly. I will be attending his Rosary on Tuesday night. 59 years old and full of life and in great shape. He worked for my brother’s company for 20 years and was at work and had a massive heart attack. He was like family to us…so sad.