Have we mentioned that we love Tuscany?As we drive through this region of Italy, we are treated to beautiful vistas of rolling hills often topped with ancient walled cities.  Some have weathered time better than others but for us they are all a delight and we have explored many of them.  Our homeAway from home while in Tuscany is in Pergine Valdarno, a typical small village surrounded by olive trees and vineyards.  The village transports us back in time  The castle at the village summit dates back to 1103.  At the center of town is Comune, the townsquare.  From there the town extends out by way of arched walkways and narrow breezeways.  As we walk through town we pass by doorways leading into homes and courtyards filled with flowers of vibrant color.  The locals greet us with a friendly bonjourno.  On our first visit to Pergine Valdarno our landlord Irene Gren, took us on a walking tour of the village wher she introduced us to the local shop owners,  the butcher, the baker,the candlestick maker.  Oh wait, there was no candlestick maker. But a butcher shop, a bakery, a produce stand, a tavern,a small grocery store and the church where there was a wedding going on.  There is also a community water station several blocks away where we pay 5 cents a litre to fill our water bottles. As we walk it is obvious Irene cares deeply about her town  On our first two visits to Pergine Valdarno we stayed in the same apartment ane loved it. We affectionally named it the rubble pile.  It is after all 800 years old.  We were very happy there but on this our third visit we decided to try a different unit.  This one has a lovely yard and an elevator to the second floor where each couple has their own bed and bath. We haven’t named it yet but its been a great place,  Our relationship with Irene has grown into a genuine friendship and we have enjoyed some wonderful visits with her .The other night she shared her heart and her vision for Pergine valdarno. A vision that will enhance the lives of its full time residents and make a richer experience for those of us who only get to visit.  The enthusiasm was contagious as she shared her ideas.There was also frustration at the lack of interest property owners in the village had towards her ideas.  We encourage ed her to not give up. After all we may be back and we would love to see her vision being fulfilled