I’m ready to be warm again.
And I’m ready not to be calculating and donning layers. I love living in shorts and tee shirts, and when I’m properly in shape, I can live in a pair of board shorts.
So, here I sit smack dab in mid-winter, dreaming of the return of summer in Italy. So, for this week’s blog post, I share with you a short photo essay of some of my favorite photo captures of life by the sea here.
The featured image, and the only color photo in this mini-exhibition, always make me smile. Taken in beautiful Polignano a Mare, Puglia, this image captures five Italian “buds” lined up and on their stomachs in the shallows. And I’m considering making this into a painting since I’m currently obsessed with painting water-themed subjects.

Impatience.
My sense when capturing this moment was that of a perturbed wife waiting for her husband to get off the damn phone. Sound familiar? Yes, it happens worldwide and even on the beautiful beaches of Cefalú, Sicily. Body language speaks volumes.

Exhausted.
Taken in the Port of Oneglia, Imperia, summer in Italy has taken the starch out of these two tourists. They’ve plopped down, covered their faces from the sun’s heat, and passed out. I’d love to know if overconsumption of wine was part of the equation.

Taking the Leap.
This photo was captured in early September 2022 in Polignano a Mare (can you tell I adore this place?). I remember sitting in a clifftop bar with my camera fitted with my long lens in one hand and a glass of wine in the other. I’d parked myself there for a solid two hours watching life in the Mediterranean far below. Of special interest were the fearless young men scaling the cliff faces and then leaping off.

Summer Served on the Rocks.
This image also was taken in Polignano a Mare in Puglia. It captures different moments and moods of the people camped out (or about to camp out) on this rock in the sea. I can’t help but draw a comparison between the woman in the wisp of a swimsuit and the woman in the photo called “Impatience.” Different moods entirely, wouldn’t you say?

Sacked Out.
I’m guessing these are worn-out tourists again, possibly even Italians from other parts. The Sicilian sun can be brutal. Bring sunscreen.
And that, my friends, is a taste of summer in Italy. If you’re enduring frigid and snow or ice-laden weather where you are, maybe this will lift your spirits. Yes, the sun eventually does come out!
All photos © Jed Smith.
Thank you Jed. Great photo which I always enjoy! From a very warm part of Australia today, I caution you to be careful what you wish for! I am looking forward to something cooler in Italy in ten days time.
As I shiver during a SC cold spell — 50 degrees! — I find these images entrancing!
I love the glimpses of life caught through you lens, Jed! Thank you for the reminders of summer on this cold, damp morning in the Bay Area. Warm thoughts and hugs to you and Simone.
Ciao, Beki
Grazie, Beki! I’m glad to deliver a bit of warmth and sunshine through my images. When are you gals coming back to Italy? Good thoughts to you both from Simone and me!
Now why are you torturing us with these lovely photos? And I live in California! “Impatience” is my favorite. I picture the woman kicking a bit of sand into the mans’ face, with a volley of savory words, and epic withering glance. Thanks for sharing!
That’s my job with this blog, isn’t it, Eric!!! I love where how your imagination further embellishes “Impatience.” You gave me a good laugh! Grazie!
I needed this today. We’re in a terrible cold spell here. I do have my garden all planned out and seeds have been purchased. These photos are so captivating.
I’m glad to help lift your spirits with a “warm breeze” of hope from Italy. When you come to Italy, I will contract you to plan my garden and give me marching orders. I know you’re a master at growing everything! xoxox Jed
Love your “study of body languages” – so real.
Been planning to send you a message… Have you met Betty Webb, one of the (retired) Meredith coordinators for abroad studies, and her husband, John Rose? John died a couple of weeks ago. He was British, with an interesting, colorful history. Served as a “clerk” in Parliament, taught both in England and at Meredith, etc.
Think of you often, especially when doing my hair and makeup… “Sister Has Wheels” hangs in my bathroom where it makes me smile neatly every day!
Hang in there; warmer weather is on its way!
Ciao Caroline! I am so happy to hear from you!
I haven’t met Betty Webb. I’ve loved connecting with Meredith staff and alumnae. I’m sorry to hear that she just lost her husband.
You made my day by sharing how you enjoy “Sister Has Wheels” on a daily basis. Thank you for that!
Good thoughts, Jed
Jed,
You have a variety of very good photographs and displays of life in Italy! Very nice!
Thank you!
Beth Skinner Zuercher
Thank you, Beth! Hope you are doing well!