Earthquake in Italy and Thinking of all of you

As I wrote my last post on my  Foodie Experiences in Italy on the 5th of May, I never thougth that only a couple of weeks later, the lives of the people that made my experience so truly memorable and who I hold so dear in my heart, would be in danger.

Some of you may be aware of the fact that there was an earthquake in the North of Italy on Sunday.
It covered the area between Modena-where I lived-and Ferrara.

You can find the full story here.

Not only did it have a terrible impact on people's lives-7 dead and many injured or homeless-but it also destroyed many historical buildings.

Buildings that had stood the test of time and that I will always hold dear in my memory of visiting the places. Places like Mantova.
The building that looked like this:

Now looks like this:

Such an incredible loss!

Still, my main concern lies with the people. The friends that shaped my life and experiences in Italy.
I've been in touch with most of them and so far the news has been good, everyone seems to be safe and well.

Still it's been a shock and scary for all of them, to say the least.

But, to quote a friend's true words ' The Emiliani people are very strong and the country will rise from the ashes!'

I don't doubt it for a second!
My thoughts are with you all!x