I am now back from 5 glorious weeks in Italy! I and those traveling with me saw so much beauty, did so many fun and spontaneous things, ate and drank well, met new friends, laughed a lot, traded interesting stories, and learned a bit about the art and history of the places we visited.

Blessed with superb weather, we spent much of our time outdoors and enjoyed some hikes and dining al fresco. From the grape laden vines of Tuscany in September, to the sun bathing and seafood in the Amalfi Coast, to the warm & cozy October cooking classes in the heart of the Chianti, to the sage and silver olive trees on the brink of the harvest, every step of the way was overflowing with smiling faces, camaraderie and delicious food and wine.

I am now busily preparing our itineraries for 2007. We will offer a new trip next year, to the Amalfi Coast. Situated in a breathtaking position along the coast south of Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast is sure to be a favorite destination. With the ruins of Pompeii nearby, and the treasures to be found, both ancient and modern, in this jewel of a location we will explore and indulge in this land where the mountains meet the sea. What we plan to offer in 2007 as follows:

• Romantic Amalfi Tour - September 2007
• Castles and Vineyards Tour - September 2007
• Rustic Tuscan Cooking Tour - October 2007
• Tuscan Photo Tour - October/November 2007

The details as well as many beautiful images of Italy will be ready by early December, 2006 and we will update our gallery. So please stay tuned!

This exciting bash takes place at Tattered Cover LoDo on November 18 (Sat.), 6:00 PM~9:30 PM. This will be sure to start your holidays off swinging as you support Denver's Jazz Public Radio Station with your tax-deductible ticket purchases. The valet service is complimentary.

Information regarding Jazz at the Cover

• Date: Saturday, November 18, 2006
• Time: 6pm to 9:30pm
• Location: Tattered Cover Bookstore, Historic LoDo, 1628 16th Street, Denver CO 80202
• Musicians: Featuring René Marie & Jeff Jenkins
• René's Website: www.renemarie.com
• Food: Lots of delicious finger food by Rialto Cafe
• Wine: Balistreri Vineyards
• Complimentary Valet Parking
• Tax-deductible tickets: 303-480-9272 Ext 12. $50 per person $90.00 for two.
• Online Tickets: www.blacktie-colorado.com
• Benefits Denver's Public Jazz Public Radio Station, jazz89 KUVO