Gearing up for the end of the winter holidays, everyone makes numerous resolutions, including me. One of mine is to write more copy on this blog. I will start with today’s holiday – la Befana. It is a holiday in Italy where an unattractive old looking woman gives out coal to children who are bad and candy to those who were good on January 5th, the Epiphany Eve. January 6th is the Feast of the Epiphany. Mostly though, the Befana signifies the end of the Winter holidays and after two weeks of vacation, everyone has to go back to work, even in Italy. Many including me, have considerable trouble getting back to work after the holiday season. My son goes back to school and I have spent so much time with him these past two weeks that I always miss him even more than usual while he is at school.

In Spain today is Three Kings Day and celebrations abound.

Traditionally, Italians gave their Christmas presents on this day, timed to the arrival of the Magi. When I was living there though all anyone got on la Befana was candy or coal.  In Venice, a regatta is held where 50 athletes all members of the oldest rowing known as the Bucintoro dress up as old witches and race from S. Tomà to the Rialto Bridge. There is a big stocking that is hanging down from the bridge that they are vying to grab. I found this article on the race online. Thinking about Venice, a city I love dearly, I am remembering my amazing visit to Venissa. I wrote a long post about the experience here. I wish I had a glass of their wine in my home right now. Do not miss out on a visit to the winery on your next trip to that amazing city.