earth on foot 30
25 December 2025
Roma, Coppedè area
Rain today. Preparing for a festa.
In Rome, it’s easy to find good ingredients for cooking at home. We walked to the local market and David fell victim to the fish monger’s cry of perfect halibut. We took it home and David baked it with capers, olives, tomatoes, and broth… perfect, and so easy. With support from my chum Claude I am hopeful I can prepare carcofi alle romana for tonight’s Christmas feast, thus breaking the rule of not making a recipe for the first time for a crowd. Meanwhile, mom embraced the Italian tradition of panettone with a gusto. We have eaten four of these large breads filled with candied orange and raisins so far.
In our humble kitchen here in Rome’s Coppedè area in the Trieste neighborhood, Roman standard pasta amatriciana has been successfully brought forth, as well as lentil soup, risotto with spinach, plus arugula salads and mixed lettuces. It’s been just one good meal after another here.
Rome never disappoints, culinarily or otherwise. Even when we can’t find the 63 bus 2 days consecutively, or negotiate bumping through the hustle-bustle of Via del Corso while en route to a relic—there are quite a few around town, for those interested—all you have to do is look up. Usually something breathtaking awaits you!
We’ve had rain, though mild temperatures. This is also a first—my only times here have been in the blazing heat of summer. It seems strange to see green grass in the parks where I have only ever seen dry yellows and browns. But as mom said, every weather has its own unique beauty.
I think so too. Like her, I learned this as a runner, enjoying landscapes of all kinds in all seasons. The main ingredient for digging runs in many climes is to dress well.
Happy solstice season everyone! Wherever you are in the world and in your life, may your journey be peaceful, merry and bright!
