We woke up Sunday morning with the urge to do absolutely nothing. So, for the most part we did. We had run out of groceries, so we had to make a quick run to Montalcino for some light lunch and gelato.
We spent the rest of the day sitting in the sun, reading and enjoying the fabulous weather. The kids got in the pool ( but not for long, as the water was still frigid ), and I went for a long stroll on one of the roads around here. I went wandering through one of the many wheat fields, doing my best Russell Crowe impression.
Shelley spent the day planning our days in Rome and hanging out on the back terrace as well. It was just what the doctor ordered.
As evening came, we decided to head to Monte Oliveto, a Benedictine monastery nearby. There was supposedly a good, but relatively inexpensive, restaurant right next door. We drove into town, and I believe that quite literally the only two buildings in the town were the restaurant and the monastery compound. That was a little strange. The restaurant was called La Torre, and the food was all that we had hoped for. They brought us out a plate of this hot fried bread along with fresh pecarino cheese. It was, I believe, the first fried thing we have had since we have been here. It was awesome. Shelley had some ravioli that was served in a butter sauce with sage, and I had the more traditional ravioli with tomato sauce. Both were really tasty. I then decided to break my beef fast because I have been craving a steak. I had a great fillet that was simply cooked, with olive oil poured over the top and garnished with a lemon. I have committed to going back on the beef fast, but it was worth it.
After dinner we walked down to the monastery, and found out that they have mass every day in Gregorian chant. We also had the fortune of listening from outside as they had their final service of the day inside the church. It was amazing to hear the sounds from outside the building, and we are planning to go to mass either Tuesday or Wednesday to hear an entire service. The setting in which the compound sits is just stunning in terms of the natural beauty surrounding it.
We are constantly amazed at the things you stumble upon here.
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