Encountering other cultures, countries and languages has always been a passion of mine and last month we had the opportunity to visit Italy again. I am grateful for all of my adventures, but this trip in particular was truly a journey to remember. First of all, Europe was experiencing one of the coldest fronts in decades so some of our original plans had to be pleasantly diverted. Including driving from Florence up to Venice and making a detour into Tuscany because the snow was so heavy and unsafe to drive in. Which ended up being the best part of our trip, wandering into a 14th century castle and being the only guests on the premises we felt as if we were staying in someone’s home and were welcomed with warm Italian smiles and special attention; including a grappa tasting from a certified Grappa Sommelier! Some of the residents had not seen snow in Tuscany for over 30 years!
Of course, while traveling from Rome to Umbria to Peruggia throughout the countryside of Tuscany and into little towns of Duarte and Scarperia I never forget Ma Maison! There is no distance that we won’t travel to bring you treasures from all over the world in our continued quest to be fresh and different. Special Italian goods were shipped back to our store from all over the country. I welcome each of you to come in and share your travel stories with us and see the Italian treasures we are featuring right now!
For more information come in to Ma Maison, 24266 Valencia Blvd. (Whole Foods Shopping Center), or call 661-799-7983. Open Everyday. www.ma-maisonandgift.com