Montefegatesi’s inauguration of its presepi, or Christmas cribs, on Sunday truly starts the festive season for us. A plethora of cribs of all shapes and sizes decorated the streets and corners of this valiant mountain village, the highest in our comune at a height of 2,800 feet.

Three of the best could be found in the little entrance chapel.

On the first really crisp day this November the event was very well attended. The little village square was filled with stalls selling cheeses and other local products and there was also a display of local mushrooms,some edible and some to be avoided.

The local second-hand shop also provided an excellent way to find ecologically sound and opportunely priced presents for December 25th. For instance we managed to pick up this Goya painting of dogs on a lead for the price of a local bus fare.

Wonderful scenery of the appenine mountain range surrounded us, enhanced by an ecstatic sunset. Truly we are beginning to feel Christmassy!