The Allisons

Retreat

First, I wanted to include a picture of the sunset I took from the baby's room. I know Texas sunsets are just as good, but I was really happy the picture turned out so well.

In November, I attended a women's retreat in Albano Terme (about 2 hours south west of us). Although it was pretty much in the city, you would never have known it. Nestled against the side of a hill (in the Eugean hills), you never hear the hustle of the city. This area used to have lots of volcanic activity so now there are a countless number of spas that offer all kinds of mineral cures and treatments.
The hotel where we stayed was built from 1428-1495. It was originally a monastery. The well in the courtyard is made from solid piece of marble and was finished in 1589. We enjoyed wonderful 4-course Italian meals. I enjoyed the food not only because it was good, but because I was able to try a lot of different things. When we go out to eat, I rarely experiment with new dishes because I don't want to pay for something I don't know whether I'll like or not. And God knows I can never share anything with my picky husband. All he eats is pizza. :) So it was nice to be able to try a BUNCH of new food.

This is a "couch" and mirror near the reception desk inside the hotel/monastery. Hopefully you can tell how big it is in the picture where I am lying on it.


They had 2 giant cages that housed many kinds of birds and trillions of rabbits. There were also 2 peacocks running around loose.

This is the outside of the monastery. There was a chapel both inside and a sanctuary right next door.

Here is the website for the hotel if any of you want to check it out. It has an arial shot of the place which is kinda cool. http://www.termesanmarco.it/index_en.php